Your Chicago Guide’s tickets for two for the press viewing of Mr. Wolf courtesy of Steppenwolf Theatre.
Steppenwolf Theatre launched its 50th anniversary season with the Chicago premier of ensemble member Rajiv Joseph’s unflinching family drama Mr. Wolf. Directed by ensemble member K. Todd Freeman, Mr. Wolf is currently on stage through November 2nd, 2025, in the Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theatre.
The production features ensemble members Kate Arrington, Tim Hopper, Caroline Neff, and Namir Smallwood, with Emilie Maureen Hanson making her Steppenwolf debut. To say that this is the cast of our dreams is putting it mildly. This is an all-star ensemble, hitting on all cylinders, with Hanson’s debut going off with a bang.
Twelve years ago, Theresa was kidnapped from her parents. Now a precautions 15-year old, she has been rescued and returned to her family that had nearly given up hope. Having been stolen from them at the tender age of 3, Theresa neither recognizes her family, nor does she understand them. The reunion sets the stage for provocative conversations. What makes a house a home? What nightmares are we willing to face for the sake of our children? And ultimately, what part do we play in the grand saga of human existence?
Dark and haunting story line twists and turns, taking the audience with it. A fast moving 90 minutes (no intermission) keeps the tension building, and the viewer on the edge of their seat. The play is made even more poignant by the current political climate, with people disappearing daily. In part, this is a true crime documentary that meets the story of loss, grief, and ultimately, resilience. Take it from this true crime fan: Mr. Wolf could be an episode of 20/20.
Steppenwolf Artistic Directors Glenn Davis and Audrey Francis comment: “We are elated to launch Steppenwolf’s 50th season with Mr. Wolf, a truly daring play that showcases the kind of acting this company is known for: unflinching, honest and gutsy. And what a team! Between the cast and director, there are over 110 collective years of Steppenwolf ensemble membership ready to get to work. We’re honored that K. Todd Freeman is back directing at Steppenwolf, and we can’t wait to see what he, and this stellar cast, have in store for Rajiv’s thrilling play that takes us deep into nightmarish circumstances and asks uncomfortable questions about the bonds of family. Killer actors and juicy family drama: there is no better way to kick off this Landmark season than by doubling down on what makes Steppenwolf singular.”
Mr. Wolf is a must see. It isn’t comfortable. It isn’t light viewing. It is is dark, haunting, and nightmarish. But so is real life at times, which makes the play timeless and relevant.
Mr. Wolf is now playing through November 2nd, 2025, at Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 North Halsted Street, in Chicago’s Clybourn Corridor neighborhood. Tickets are available here.