American Son at Ghostlight Ensemble Theatre Co

An estranged biracial couple must confront their feelings about race and bias after their son is detained by the local police following a traffic stop incident.

The story unfolds over a single night as Kendra, an African American mother, desperately seeks answers about the whereabouts of her teenage son, Jamal, who has gone missing after an encounter with the police. As tensions escalate, Kendra is joined by her estranged white husband, Scott, and their clashing perspectives expose deep-seated issues of race, privilege and systemic bias.

Set in a Florida police station, American Son is a gripping tale of two parents caught in our national divide, with their worst fears hanging in the balance. This tense and emotionally charged drama is a compelling exploration of contemporary social issues.

American Son takes place September 18 through October 4, 2026, on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. at Friendship Community Place, 5150 N Northwest Highway, Chicago, IL 60630. There will be a preview performance on Thursday, September 17 and an understudy performance on Monday, September 28.

Tickets are pay-what-you-will, with an average donation of $25. Audience members who are financially able to donate more help offset the cost for those who can’t afford to give. For the preview performance on Thursday, September 17, the suggested donation is $15. G.E.T. your tickets now!