Mr. Wolf at Steppenwolf in Chicago

[Call_me_jorge]

Posted: 10/10/25 at 9:13am

I attended the Thursday evening performance of Mr. Wolf at Steppenwolf Theatre, and it was one of the most gripping plays I’ve seen. The story is intense touching on themes like death, kidnapping, and suicide and it unfolds with a quiet tension that never really lets go. Without giving too much away, the play centers on a 15-year-old girl who has just been returned home after spending 12 years in captivity.

The writing is sharp and haunting, but what truly stood out to me were the performances. Every actor delivered a layered, emotionally charged portrayal, yet Caroline Neff’s performance in particular was extraordinary. She gave one of the most compelling and deeply human performances I’ve ever seen on stage. Neff continues to prove why she’s among the finest actors in Steppenwolf’s ensemble possibly their best at the moment.

The production runs through early November, and if you’re in Chicago, I highly recommend seeing it. I was able to get two $20 tickets through Steppenwolf’s 20-for-20 program, which made the experience even more accessible. Judging by the quality of this production and the creative ambition behind it, Mr. Wolf feels like a piece that could very well have a future life in New York, though the digital program didn’t list any NYC-based companies or commercial producers yet.

[MidWestTheater]

Posted: 10/10/25 at 9:57am

We saw it a few weeks ago and thought it was excellent. I'm becoming a fan of Rajiv Joseph, because I also really enjoyed Describe the Night. I thought all the performances were excellent, especially the young girl at the center of the show. Seriously, Caroline Neff can do no wrong, her performance in last year's Fool for Love was one of my favorites. My only complaint is that Namir Smallwood, my favorite Chicago actor, didn't have as meaty a character, but apparently he was a last minute replacement. 

What kinda wowed me about the show, was the actual physical production. Steppenwolf always has top-tier set design, but with house flying up and the use of the LED screens were super impressive. And the show really doesn't require it, but it worked.