Inspired by the Scopes “Monkey” Trial of 1925, Inherit the Wind by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee is a classic courtroom drama between two great lawyers who argue the case of a science teacher accused of the crime of teaching Darwin’s theory of evolution. The ethics and issues at the heart of this work-particularly intellectual freedom-are just as relevant today as they were when the play premiered in 1955. Veteran Chicago actor and director, and former Next Theatre artistic director, Steve Pickering directs this towering 20th century classic. The production features OPFT Artistic Director Jack Hickey.
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Inherit the Wind Review Round-Up
| Chicago Tribune - Recommended
"...Pickering brings the action into the audience during the trial scenes by having townspeople sit next to us, fanning themselves and gasping as Jack Hickey's Drummond (based on renegade atheist defense attorney Clarence Darrow) clashes with Aaron Christensen's populist Christian orator, Matthew Harrison Brady (based on William Jennings Bryan). He also cunningly refocuses attention on the women on the perimeters of the story, most notably Rachel Brown (Emily Williams), Mrs. Brady (Susan Fey) and E.K. Hornbeck (Kimberly Logan)."
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ChicagoCritic - Recommended
"...Shannan Parr as the local preacher and Kimberly Logan as the cynical newspaper reporter add spice to the piece. Inherit the Wind is a cautionary tale reminding us to be vigilant in protecting our freedom of thought in a time of religious fanaticism. Well stage and directed (by Steve Pickering) the large ensemble serves the production nicely by giving an authentic, down-home feel to the dramatic court room drama. This play works well in the scenic outdoor setting in Oak Park. Bring your lawn chair and picnic foods and enjoy a worthy cautionary tale that, unfortunately, is still a worry in today’s America."
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