World Premiere Of FAST FOOD CHAIN Comes to Adventure Stage Chicago

Adventure Stage Chicago (ASC), a program of the Northwestern Settlement, presents the world premiere of ASC Artistic Associate Andrew Marikis' Fast Food Chain from April 26 to May 18, 2019 (press opening April 27) at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble Street. This production continues ASC's 15th season, which explores the many challenges of hunger, both literal and metaphorical. Fast Food Chain is directed by Daryl Brooks, who helmed ASC's Akeelah and the Bee last season.

Fast Food Chain reimagines Igbo folk heroes Hare and Tortoise against the backdrop of Chicago in 2019. The story follows a brother and sister as they wrestle with the pressures of food insecurity in Chicago. Rudy is a teenage boy who dreams of becoming a famous chef. The problem is, his schemes usually involve getting him and his younger sister, Akari, into big trouble. Their family struggles with the pressure of food insecurity in Chicago until one day Rudy and Akari discover a garden in the unlikeliest of places. Fast Food Chain is written with help from Chicago students, diving into the magical realism of African folktale while showcasing the power of community and storytelling in combatting social issues.

Tickets for the world premiere of Fast Food Chain at Adventure Stage Chicago are on sale now for $12 to $17. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit adventurestage.org or call 773-342-4141.

Fast Food Chain is the second world premiere play at ASC to benefit from a new play development process formalized by ASC Playwright-in-Residence Carlos Murillo. Marikis worked with school, youth and community groups at Northwestern Settlement over 18 months, using their input and participation to integrate community stories into the world of the play. The resulting story about heroic youth amplifies the mission of the Settlement, educating and inspiring its community to help disrupt generational poverty in Chicago.

Performance schedule
Preview: Friday, April 26 at 7 p.m.
Press Opening: Saturday, April 27 at 4 p.m.
Regular Run: Saturdays April 27 to May 18 at 4 p.m.; Thursday, May 2 at 7 p.m.