Between Activism and Capitalism

Windfall

A Chicago father has lost his child after a clash with the police. It’s not the first time, either. Earlier, he lost his son and the ghost of young Marcus continues to haunt and taunt him. Then three different strangers, all of whom look suspiciously alike, but in different clothes and with different accents, show up at his door. Each woman arrives offering advice and a huge cash settlement for Henri Mano’s loss. The city wants Mr. Mano to simply put aside his grief, take the check and then relocate somewhere else. If Henri chooses to remain in his home all the memories of his two children will continue to haunt him. In addition, the world that Eli, his young activist child, was trying hard to protect for future generations, will always be a reminder of the cash offer he shunned. This tense story about gender, money and resistance turns into a fierce battle between activism and capitalism.

Steppenwolf Theatre’s 50th Anniversary Season continues with this World Premiere drama. Written by Tarell Alvin McCraney, an Oscar-winning ensemble member for the film “Moonlight,” this powerful, sometimes poetic play in two acts is about today’s Chicago community. Thanks to a brilliant production, soundly directed by Awoye Timpo, this bold drama, filled with unexpected humor, will positively shock, shatter and stir theatergoers.

The production is led by three incredibly gifted actors. An Award-winning star of stage (THE PIANO LESSON on Broadway; RICHARD III, Off-Broadway) and screen (“Highest 2 Lowest,” Apple TV; “The Wire, HBO), Michael Potts grabs the audience by the heart and never lets go until play’s final moments. This veteran actor, who always hoped to work at Steppenwolf, brings both his astonishing talent and years of experience to this role. One thing is certain: audiences will remember the character of Henri Mano for years to come!

A theatrical genius, Glenn Davis, Steppenwolf’s resident actor and co-Artistic Director, takes on the demanding role of Henri’s son, Marcus. Comfortable both with delivering powerful, emotion-filled dialogue to his father and factual challenges and questions directly to the audience, Mr. Davis once again proves his charismatic star power. As this two-act drama forges onward, Glenn ably opens the audience to all of the subtle nuances and layers that become revealed, especially as Marcus’ patience winds down. And filled with energy and stamina, Mr. Davis seldom leaves the stage…or our consciousness.

The third magnificent performance in this production comes from Esco Jouley, giving a potent performance as Eli. The Emmy-nominated actor for the FX series, “Dying for Sex,” brings a mesmerizing stage presence that cuts through every line, every thought and every gesture. It allows Esco to hold their own with a cast of versatile and very talented and seasoned theatre professionals. Also recently seen Off-Broadway in TROPHY BOYS, as well as their award-winning WOLF PLAY,

Esco Jouley is a name to remember.

Like Glenn Davis, two other actors in this play were in Steppenwolf productions that dazzled, both in Chicago and later on Broadway. Jon Michael Hill is a talented young ensemble member who was also seen in PURPOSE. That production went on to New York City, where it won the Tony for Best Play and the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Mr. Davis is fine as a fellow activist named Cori, but absolutely hilarious as a medical professional working in the morgue. He has also appeared in Steppenwolf’s LEROY AND LUCY, TRUE WEST and the gritty PASS OVER. And Namir Smallwood, one of Chicago’s finest young actors who seems to work nonstop, has been enjoyed in MR. WOLF, YOU WILL GET SICK, TRUE WEST and BUG, which also went on to Broadway. He strongly portrays a young activist named Brother 1, as well as a Police Officer who is a constant challenge to Mr. Mano.

But for my money, one of the best reasons to see WINDFALL is the casting of the incomparable Alana Arenas. This gifted actress and ensemble member was also seen in PURPOSE, but has impressed theatergoers in THE BLUEST EYE, MARIE ANTOINETTE, TRIBES and GOOD PEOPLE, among many other productions. She brings the laughter to Tarell Alvin McCraney’s drama as First Lady, Miss Second and The Last One. The first two characters are definitely crowd pleasers, offering two very funny women who are both witty and priceless. Ms. Arenas’ Last One is far more serious and, dressed all in black, a visage of gloom and doom for Henri.

Steppenwolf World Premiere of WINDFALL is a powerfully poignant play that’s as topical as it is entertaining. But be warned: this isn’t one of those typical plays where the audience sits back in his seat as a mere spectator. Theatergoers will find themselves leaning into the production and often participating with the characters. The audience is encouraged to clap, snap, sing and chant along with the characters on stage, giving each theatergoer the opportunity to personally engage with and become a part of the cast. But there is one thing that’s certain: Tarell Alvin McCraney’s new drama that pits political activism with materialistic capitalism is one theatrical experience that audiences won’t soon forget.

Highly Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas

Presented April 9-March 31 by Steppenwolf Theatre, in the Ensemble Theater, 1650 N. Halsted, Chicago.

Tickets are available in person at the box office, by calling Audience Services at 312-335-1650 or by going to www.steppenwolf.org.

Additional information about this and other fine area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com

Photos by Michael Brosoilow