THE ABSOLUTE BRIGHTNESS OF LEONARD PELKEY

MARCH 29 – APRIL 27, 2019

THE ABSOLUTE BRIGHTNESS OF LEONARD PELKEY

CHICAGO PREMIERE – JOSEPH JEFFERSON AWARD RECOMMENDED

Written by: James Lecesne
Directed by: Kurt Johns

Absolute Brightness is about the disappearance of Leonard Pelkey, a flamboyant 14-year-old who has been bullied by his peers. Ensemble member Joe Foust portrays a tough New Jersey detective, a withdrawn teenage girl, a brusque yet gentle hairdresser, and a dozen other intriguing characters as they join forces to solve a mystery that will forever change their lives. L.A. Times says it “shines with humanity”. To learn more, read our Artistic Director’s note and Backstage Guide.

PERFORMANCE INFO

Mar 29 – Apr 27
(773) 654-3103 box office

Wednesday: 7:30pm
Thursday: 7:30pm
Friday: 7:30pm
Saturday: 3:00pm or 7:30pm
Sunday: 2:30pm

Additional shows on 4/3, 4/10, 4/15, & 4/17 @ 7:30pm; 4/24 @ 2:30pm.
No shows on 3/30, 4/6, 4/20 @ 3pm; nor 4/13, 4/17, or 4/27 @ 7:30pm

Duration: 75 minutes; no intermission
Location: Stage 773 at 1225 W Belmont Ave
Ticket price: $19-$39
Recommended for ages 12+
Town Halls: we offer free post-show discussions on Sunday

The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey

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REVIEWS

Joseph Jefferson Award recommendation

“Foust is a dynamo!…character actor extraordinaire.” – Newcity Chicago

“Sensational!” – WTTW

“Masterclass in acting…riveting to watch.” – PerformInk

“Astute direction…imaginative contributions of designers.” – Chicago Reader

“Compelling! Undeniable.” – Windy City Times

“Highly recommended. [Foust] effortlessly, almost magically, morphs into the entire cast. Solo performance that dazzles.” – Chicago Theater Review

“[Designers] create an absorbing atmosphere for the gifted Foust to render a spirited solo performance…brilliant comedic and dramatic sensibilities.” – PicksinSix

“Comedic richness of Foust’s characterizations” – Chicago Tribune

“a HIT – an important piece of work!” – Chicago Stage Standard

“[Foust] has a naturally inviting and playful energy.” – Chicago Sun-Times

ARTISTS

CAST: Joe Foust (solo performer).

PRODUCTION TEAM: James Lecesne (playwright), Kurt Johns (director), Grant Sabin* (scenic), Jared Gooding* (lighting), Travis Bihn (costumes), Eric Backus* (composer & sound), Kevin Rolfs (props), G. “Max” Maxin IV (projections), Shandee Vaughan* (production manager & stage manager).

COMMUNITY SERVICE

We raise awareness of other non-profit organizations’ great causes through creative collaborations. We’re proud to partner with Northwestern University’s The Family Institute, Chicago Public Schools, The Trevor Project, and Center on Halsted. We donate proceeds of our “Pediatric Previews” to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.