About
Topdog/Underdog at Steppenwolf Downstairs Theater.
Suzan-Lori Parks's Pulitzer Prize-winning script gets a formidable Steppenwolf pairing: Tony Award-winning director Kenny Leon with ensemble members Glenn Davis and Namir Smallwood. Go for the escalating contest between brothers Lincoln and Booth, which turns a three-card hustle and years of resentment into a darkly comic confrontation. The limited run closes November 1.
What to expect
Arrive about an hour before curtain, when the Downstairs Theater lobby and bars open, and use the theater's study guide beforehand if you want context on the play. Once seated, focus on the face-off between ensemble members Glenn Davis and Namir Smallwood as Booth's three-card hustle and the brothers' resentment tighten into a darkly comic confrontation. Plan for about 2 hours 25 minutes including intermission. If simulated gunfire, graphic violence, sexual material, or strong language affects your visit, review the theater's content advisory before booking.
Good to know
- The production runs through Sunday, November 1.
- The performance lasts approximately 2 hours 25 minutes, including one intermission.
- The Downstairs Theater lobby and bars open one hour before the performance.
- The production includes strong adult, racist, and sexist language, graphic violence, simulated gunfire, sexually suggestive dialogue, and graphic sexual material.
- Eligible college and university students can purchase $15 tickets, subject to availability and identification requirements.
Also in Lincoln Park, Lakeview & Wrigleyville
Common questions
How long is Topdog/Underdog?
The performance lasts approximately 2 hours 25 minutes, including one intermission.
Who stars in this production?
Steppenwolf ensemble members Glenn Davis and Namir Smallwood play the brothers, under Kenny Leon's direction.
What is the play about?
Brothers Lincoln and Booth struggle to get by as Lincoln reenacts Abraham Lincoln's assassination for work and Booth practices a three-card hustle. Their rivalry and accumulated resentment drive the confrontation.
Is the production suitable for children?
The theater warns of strong adult, racist, and sexist language, graphic violence, simulated gunfire, sexual material, and simulated masturbation.
Do I need a ticket?
Yes, tickets are required. Eligible college and university students can purchase $15 tickets, subject to availability.
When does the run end?
The limited Steppenwolf run closes on Sunday, November 1.