Pictured: Michael Anthony Rawlins

Definition Theatre Company has announced the cast and production team for the final production of their 17/18 season, the Chicago Premiere of MOON MAN WALK by James Ijames, directed by Tyla Abercrumbie.

“The Chicago theatre community must continue to nurture new work and give opportunities for regional and world premieres in order to be a national leader for the arts,” said Artistic Director Tyrone Phillips. “Definition Theatre is thrilled to be shifting our focus to produce what we call ‘future classics’ and end our season with MOON MAN WALK by James Ijames. This production will mark our fourth Chicago Premiere as a company And we are very fortunate to have Tyla Abercrumbie making her directorial debut by way of this moving piece.”

From the press release: “Monarch must return to Philadelphia following the sudden death of his mother. On the journey back to his boyhood home to plan for her funeral, Monarch mourns, falls in love, and discovers that sometimes, the truth lies someplace between the surface of the moon and wherever you are. Moon Man Walk is a moving and enthralling new play exploring the enduring connection between a mother and her son, and the space required to recognize a past that is becoming ever more present.”

The cast features Debo Balogun, Isabeau Dornevil, Shadana Patterson and Michael Anthony Rawlins. The creative team includes Eleanor Kahn (Set Designer), Kristy Leigh Hall (Costume Designer), Slick Jorgensen (Lighting and Projection Designer), and Matt Test (Sound Designer). Mercedes White is the Assistant Director and Athanasia Giannetos is the dramaturg.

MOOM MAN WALK runs January 26 – February 25 in the Richard Christiansen Theater at Victory Gardens. More info at definitiontheatre.org.