Avery Willis Hoffman: Leading From Beyond the Stage
Court Theatre’s new artistic director talks theatre classics and joining a Chicago institution.
Stories by Jerald Raymond Pierce
Jerald Raymond Pierce is the managing editor of American Theatre. He studied acting at Ohio University and received his M.A. in arts journalism from Syracuse University. A member of the American Theatre Critics Association, he is also a freelance critic who has written for the Chicago Tribune and Seattle Times. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram @TheJRPierce.
Getting Away With It in ‘Heist’
You’ve seen heist movies, but what about a heist play? A U.S. premiere at Arizona Theatre Company turns the challenge into an advantage.
Designing Scares: A Chicago Halloween
In the first edition of a new column, we visit a puppet haunted house and chat with a rising Chicago scenic designer.
Where There’s ‘FIRE!!’
Quintessence Theatre Group shares the story of how some of the Harlem Renaissance’s greatest minds came together to create the first all-Black literary magazine.
6 Theatre Workers You Should Know
This edition highlights immigrant theatremakers, ranging from performers to designers to the folks behind the scenes making sure productions make it to the stage.
Axes of Evil Disrupt ‘The Sit-In Experience’
A new immersive performance at Stage Aurora Theatrical Company puts audience members in the thick of a historical Jacksonville event.
A Chicago Theatre Prom Promise
This month, we reflect on how awards ceremonies may grant the chance to spark exciting new projects and highlight summer happenings around town.
A Well-Being Workout in ‘The Happiness Gym’
Playwright Ken Weitzman’s rolling world premiere centers a communal approach as audiences visit a curated happy place.
In ‘Soft Target,’ It’s the Toys’ Story
Emily Kaczmarek’s new play, premiering at Detroit Public Theatre, explores gun violence through the eyes of a young girl and her toys.
Your Call Is Very Important to ‘Lennox Mutual’
Candle House Collective’s personalized immersive experience engages participants in a series of 20-minute phone calls that can go to some very odd, personal places.
