Photo: Chicago Playwright Calamity West

Steep Theatre recently announced the commission of a new play by Chicago-based playwright Calamity West. The commission is a first for the 15-year-old theater and will mark the first time West and Steep have worked together. This partnership, according to Steep, “will be an exciting next step, as will Steep’s 16th season, scheduled to be announced in June, a season which will include the ensemble’s second world premiere in as many seasons.”

West has deep roots here in Chicago having had her Kilroys-cited play, Give It All Back developed at Sideshow Theatre Company and Victory Gardens in 2015. She is a member of Jackalope Theatre (where several of her plays have been produced) and is currently a member of The Goodman Playwrights Unit where she is developing her new play, Tony Kushner Decides to Write a Gay Fantasia Based on National Themes.

In addition to the newly commissioned West play, Steep continues its work with university playwriting programs to provide students with professional development opportunities. The program will continue in May with a workshop of Northwestern University MFA student Roger Mason’s Blackjack.

Artistic Director Peter Moore is thrilled to continue bringing new work into the world, adding, “Calamity, who is not only one of the most exciting writers going, but a writer whose sensibility and energy align so well with Steep’s aesthetic. Roger is a unique and immensely talented new voice, and we’re honored to have the opportunity to help shape Blackjack and introduce this play to Chicago audiences.”

A public reading of Blackjack will be held at Steep Theatre on May 16 at 7:30 pm. The reading will be followed by refreshments and a chance to talk with the playwright and Steep ensemble members. Tickets are free, but reservations are required.  Call (773) 649-3186 or email [email protected] for reservations.