Your Chicago Guide’s tickets for two to the press viewing of Chlorine Sky courtesy of Steppenwolf Theatre.

Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Chicago’s premier ensemble theater company, is currently presenting the Steppenwolf for Young Adults’ world premiere adaptation of Chlorine Sky. Based on the book by Mahogany L. Browne and directed by Ericka Ratcliff, this intimate coming-of-age story based on Browne’s popular young adult novel will play through March 11, 2023 in Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theater.

“Ok, so boom. / We ain’t friends anymore.” Sky and Lay Li were always in sync. But now their rhythms are changing; Sky likes swimming, and Lay Li is all about beauty. Sky, basketball; Lay Li, boys. Things just make more sense underwater and on the court. A world premiere adaptation of Mahogany L. Browne’s popular young adult novel, Chlorine Sky is an intimate coming-of-age story told in verse about two girls who are best friends – until they aren’t. Sometimes, growing up means growing apart.

We attended a relaxed/sensory-friendly matinee, a showcase of Steppenwolf’s efforts to be an all-inclusive venue. Because the performance was a relaxed performance environment, all seats were general admission. The audience may occupy any open seat. Relaxed/sensory-friendly performances feature a relaxed performance environment and minor adjustments to lighting and sound cues. House lights remain on at a low level, and we audience is encouraged to experience and interact with the show in whatever way makes them most comfortable. Guests are allowed to enter and exit the space and can spend time exploring the quiet area. Social narratives, character guides and other materials were available in advance of the performance, with hard copies available on the day. Fidget station. outside the theatre entrance was set up to provide fidget items to the viewers in need of them. Hat tip to Steppenwolf for the inclusion efforts.

hat about your friends? It’s more than a line from a TLC song. It’s a way of life, especially for Black girls and women who rely on their girlfriends like sisters. It’s a unique bond, one that author and activist Mahogany L. Browne explores in Chlorine Sky. Based on Browne’s own experiences in high school, Chlorine Sky is a story about love, loss and broken promises.

Chlorine Sky is now playing at Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted, in Chicago’s Clybourn Corridor neighborhood.
Tickets are available at steppenwolf.org and by calling (312) 335-1650.