Steppenwolf Theatre Company Blog – Chicago Theater, World-Class Ensemble

I still can’t believe that I’m here.

After three weeks in, I’ve successfully finished unpacking. I’m becoming slightly familiar with a city that still seems so foreign to me. I have come to learn quite a few things along the way. I have learned that the Millenium Bean cannot be found in Grant Park, no matter how long you search for it. I have learned that when talking baseball, it is important to stress which specific Sox fan that I am, especially around the territory of Wrigley Field. I have learned that on the weekend, the red line is no longer my friend.

It’s strange. One year ago, I had never heard of Haruki Murakami. I had never even heard of the Steppenwolf Theatre Company. But in just a matter of weeks, both have become a substantial part of my life. I feel nothing but grateful to be a part of Kafka on the Shore.

With two weeks left until previews, I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t terrified. The mainstage house is vast. The concept of publicity is one I still can’t wrap my mind around. My extended family is coming.

But I am in good company. The other actors have only been kind to me. They are teaching me things every day, whether they are aware of it or not. And Frank Galati’s firm belief in this world that we have all created has made me a believer as well. His passion fuels my passion. With time, that fear I had coming in is slowly disappearing, and all that is left behind is my anticipation to bring this piece to life.

This play is unlike anything I have ever seen. It is a huge risk and one that I’m sure will be as exciting to watch as it is to be a part of. All I hope for is that the audience comes in with an open mind.

The theme this season for Steppenwolf revolves around the power of the imagination, both on stage and off. The entrance to another world will be opened in the Downstairs Theatre every night. As long as people are willing to sacrifice reality as they know it to imagination, they should have no problem crossing the threshold.

One should simply enjoy the ride. That’s all I plan on doing up there.

This entry was posted by Christopher Larkin on Monday, September 8th, 2008 at 8:43 am and is filed under Kafka on the Shore. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.