Steppenwolf to Begin Season with DETROIT, 9/18

Steppenwolf Theatre Company kicks off its 2010-2011 season with Detroit, a new play by Lisa D'Amour, directed by ensemble member Austin Pendleton.  Detroit features an all-ensemble cast including Kevin Anderson, Kate Arrington, Ian Barford, Robert Breuler and Laurie Metcalf. Detroit plays September 9 - November 7, 2010 in Steppenwolf's Downstairs Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St.  The press performances are: Saturday, September 18 at 3 pm and Tuesday, September 21 at 7:30 pm. 
 
In a "first ring" suburb outside a mid-sized American city, Ben and Mary fire up the grill to welcome the new neighbors who've moved into the long-empty house next door.  The fledgling friendship soon veers out of control, shattering the fragile hold Ben and Mary have on their way of life-with unexpected comic consequences. Detroit is a fresh, off-beat look at what happens when we dare to open ourselves up to something new.
 
Lisa D'Amour is a playwright and interdisciplinary artist whose works have been presented in New York and other major U.S. cities.  D'Amour has been commissioned to write two new plays for Steppenwolf over the next two years through support from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.  An actor, director and playwright, ensemble member Austin Pendleton began his artistic relationship with Steppenwolf directing the 1979 production of Say Goodnight, Gracie. His award-winning plays include Booth, Uncle Bob and Orson's Shadow, which received its world premiere in the Steppenwolf's Merle Reskin Garage.
 
Steppenwolf's 2010-2011 season explores the theme of public/private self-how the public and private aspects of our lives unfold in an increasingly complex world.
The design team for Detroit includes: Kevin Depinet (sets), Rachel Healy (costumes), Kevin Rigdon (lights) and Josh Schmidt (sound), Tommy Rapley (choreography) and Matt Hawkins (fight choreography). Polly Carl is the Dramaturg, Michelle Medvin is the Stage Manager and Rose Marie Packer is the Assistant Stage Manager.