Robert Falls Returns to Directing in Chicago
Renowned director Robert Falls is returning to the Chicago theater scene. This time, he will direct a production at Redtwist Theatre, a small venue with less than 50 seats located at 1044 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. Falls expressed enthusiasm about returning to the Chicago storefront theater scene after his recent restaging of Mozart’s opera “Don Giovanni” at the Lyric Opera. The Lyric Opera’s seating dwarfs that of Redtwist.
The new show, titled “Flying Monkeys,” will premiere on December 6 and run until January 17, 2027. Written by Chicago’s L.C. Bernadine, the play follows two agents in the troubled teen transportation industry, where teenagers are sometimes removed from their families at night.
Falls described the show as a “pop-up” within Redtwist’s existing schedule. Bernadine, who is also a producer, has worked with the New Theatre Project alongside writer-director Spencer Huffman, often utilizing non-traditional theater spaces effectively. Falls is eager to support Bernadine’s work.
Casting for “Flying Monkeys” has not been announced. Redtwist Theatre is a non-Equity theater, giving emerging actors the chance to collaborate with Falls, one of the nation’s most reputable directors.
Bruce Norris’ “Downstate” Heads to Broadway
Bruce Norris’ play “Downstate” will have a limited run at Broadway’s Booth Theatre this fall. Directed by Joe Mantello, the play will be produced by Scott Rudin. Set in a residence for sex offenders, it promises to be controversial and brilliantly written. The cast includes Chicago actors Francis Guinan and K. Todd Freeman, though this is a separate production from the 2018 Steppenwolf premiere.
Several Chicago actors will make their Broadway debut as “Paranormal Activity” opens at the August Wilson Theatre in New York. The play, previously seen at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, was created by Levi Holloway, a DePaul University graduate. It features Cher Álvarez, Travis A. Knight, and Shannon Cochran. However, Kate Fry, who performed in the Chicago production, decided not to join the New York cast.
Shattered Globe Theatre’s 36th Season
Shattered Globe Theatre has announced its 36th season. It includes the Midwest premieres of “Vladimir” by Erika Sheffer in the fall, directed by Lou Contey. “The Waterfall,” written by Phanésia Pharel, scheduled for winter and directed by Jasmine B. Gunter. Spring will bring “Brace Brace” by Oli Forsyth, directed by Elizabeth Margolius. Shattered Globe resides at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave.
Casting Updates and Changes
Lookingglass Theatre’s upcoming show “Kowalski,” aimed for Broadway, sees the full cast announced. Alongside Johnny Galecki as Tennessee Williams and Jacob Moskovitz as Marlon Brando, are Alison Cimmet, Reece Dos Santos, and Ellie Ricker. Nora Dunn will no longer be part of “The Humanities” at Victory Gardens Theater due to scheduling conflicts.
In Memoriam: Kurt Ehrmann
The Chicago theater community mourns the loss of Kurt Ehrmann, who died at 58 following a heart attack. Ehrmann was a beloved actor, known for vibrant performances across various stages. Memorable roles included Roy Cohn in “Angels in America” by Hypocrites and Hamm in “Endgame.” He worked with House Theatre of Chicago, showing depth in his portrayal of “Old Ran’l” McCoy.
Ehrmann’s empathetic portrayal of Lopakhin in “The Cherry Orchard” remains a standout, showcasing his sophisticated and emotionally rich work.
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