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

Ashley is the Steppenwolf for Young Adults intern.

During my time interning at Steppenwolf, I have heard the term “Public Square” at least six dozen times, and I find myself using it without always knowing quite what I am referring to. To me, the Public Square is a safe space in which the various constituents in our community can engage with each other, with the Steppenwolf staff, and with the amazing artists who make our productions possible, in meaningful and critical conversations about the social issues raised through the work we present. This safe space already exists in web format through our blog, in the intellectual space of post-show discussions, in the physical space of the future home of Steppenwolf, and also where I’ve most encountered it: in our Steppenwolf Young Adult Council.

Over the past three months, while attending a youth-led post-show discussion of Up, seeing various productions at Chicago theaters and helping to select the 2009-2010 council members, I have met so many young people that are dedicated to furthering their understanding of and participation in theater arts as well as increasing young people’s access to Steppenwolf. I have been so inspired by their passion, optimism and imagination.

(more…)

I have a confession: It’s been over a week since Steppenwolf for Young Adults hosted its Annual Celebration, and I think I’ve browsed through the evening’s photographs about-two-dozen times. (Take a look at photos from this event!) Maybe I’m trying to recapture the genuine energy in Yondorf Hall that night, or perhaps I’m just a sap who likes to relive the more emotional moments of the evening. Either way, I’d like to think my obsession with these photographs is indicative of the night’s joie de vivre – as opposed to any compulsive fascination with my own department.

This being my first year working for Steppenwolf for Young Adults, orchestrating the Annual Celebration seemed like a fairly daunting task. The idea of the event is to celebrate both the completed and upcoming SYA seasons, and invite everyone who has been involved with Steppenwolf for Young Adults throughout the year – from educators and students, to community partners and board members – to share in the festivities. As you might imagine, the guest list is an unusual conglomeration of adults and teens, artists and administrators – all with varying levels of familiarity with SYA. (more…)