CHICAGO: The Court Theatre has announced its 2016–17 season, featuring five plays, including a world premiere.
“I am proud to announce Court Theatre’s 62nd season of producing fresh, vibrant takes on the classics in Hyde Park,” said artistic director Charles Newell in a statement.
The season will begin with the world premiere of Michael Cristofer’s Man in the Ring (Sept. 15–Oct. 16), based on the true story of six-time world champion boxer Emile Griffith. Kamal Angelo Bolden will star, and Newell will direct.
Next up will be Sophocles’ Electra (Nov. 10–Dec. 11), translated by founding artistic director Nicholas Rudall. The cast will feature Sandra Marquez, Michael Pogue, and Kate Fry. Seret Scott will direct.
Following will be Pearl Cleage’s Blues for an Alabama Sky (Jan. 12–Feb. 12, 2017), about emerging artists following their dreams during the Great Depression in the Harlem Renaissance. Ron OJ Parson will direct.
Next up will be the Chicago premiere of The Hard Problem (March 9–April 9, 2017), by Tom Stoppard, about a young psychologist grappling with questions of science and the role of computers in psychology. Chaon Cross will star, and Newell will direct.
Following, Mary Chase’s Harvey (May 11–June 11, 2017) will take the stage. The play follows a pleasant man and his invisible friend, who is a six-foot tall rabbit. Tim Kane will star, and Devon de Mayo will direct.
Court Theatre, founded in 1955, revives lost masterpieces, illuminates familiar texts, and distinguishes fresh, modern classics.
