Theatre News Wire

This summer, Steep Theatre makes a triumphant return with the enthralling U.S. Premiere of "The Writer" by Ella Hickson, a playwright who's making waves across the UK. The play is brought to life under the masterful direction of Georgette Verdin, and will be showcased at the Edge Theater, a cultural gem in Chicago's vibrant Edgewater neighborhood, where Steep Theatre has been deeply rooted. The production heralds a new chapter for the theatre company as they gear up for the construction of their recently purchased premises.

"The Writer" made its inaugural debut in London's distinguished Almeida Theatre during the spring of 2018, captivating audiences and earning critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of contemporary theatre and the broader world. The play won accolades from The Stage, The Evening Standard, and The Independent, which named it among the top ten shows of 2018, while Timeout London crowned it the best show of the year.

Artistic Director Peter Moore shared his enthusiasm, stating, "This is as bold and exciting a script as we've ever done. It hits this moment and this form in ways that are both completely riveting and rattling. Steep feels very much the home for this piece and I'm grateful we'll be a part of the conversations that will undoubtedly follow."

"The Writer" features an ensemble cast including Lucy Carapetyan, Nate Faust, and Peter Moore of Steep Theatre, alongside guest artists Krystal Ortiz, Jodi Gage, and Allyce Torres, all making their first appearance with Steep.

Meet the Playwright:
Ella Hickson is a decorated playwright who has enthralled audiences in the UK and beyond. Her portfolio boasts a diverse range of works including "Adult Children," a groundbreaking VR piece from 2021, "Swive" (2019) at The Globe, "Anna" (2019) at the National Theatre, "The Writer" (2018) and "Oil" (2016) at the Almeida Theatre, as well as "Wendy and Peter Pan" (2015) at The Royal Shakespeare Company. She is a celebrated member of the Royal Society of Literature, a Thornton Wilder Fellow, a two-time MacDowell Colony Fellow, and has earned The Catherine Johnson Award.

About the Visionary Director:
Georgette Verdin, a queer Cuban American, is a trailblazing director with an unwavering commitment to crafting visceral theatre experiences that evoke profound empathy and spotlight marginalized women. Serving as the Associate Artistic Director of Northlight Theatre, she is renowned for her work, and was featured in NewCity Magazine's 2023 "Players: Who Really Performs for Chicago Right Now" and Chicago Reader's "Best of Chicago 2022." Her portfolio is rich with accolades including two 2022 Joseph Jefferson Award nominations. With a BA in Theatre Performance from McNeese State University and a Master's in Directing from the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University, Georgette is a force in the theatre community.

A Closer Look at Steep Theatre:
Born from the passion of three actors in 2000, Steep Theatre has evolved into an ensemble of 43 theatre artists, buoyed by a passionate community of art enthusiasts and administrative supporters. Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune proclaimed it "the most fearless theater in town." The theatre is heralded for its potent productions, bringing contemporary stories to life through finely-crafted ensemble performances. Committed to fostering an inclusive and anti-racist environment, Steep Theatre continues to be an unwavering beacon of theatrical innovation.