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Steppenwolf Theatre Announces 2026-27 Season with World Premieres
New works from Chicago-connected writers Adam Rapp and Stephanie Alison Walker highlight the upcoming five-show lineup.
Published on Mar. 4, 2026
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Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago has unveiled its 2026-27 season, featuring several world premieres including new plays from writers Adam Rapp and Stephanie Alison Walker, both with ties to the city. The season will also see the return of director Tina Landau and Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Branden Jacobs-Jenkins.
Why it matters
As one of the most renowned regional theaters in the country, Steppenwolf's new season lineup showcases its commitment to developing and producing innovative new works, particularly from playwrights with local connections. The mix of world premieres, high-profile creative talent, and acclaimed playwrights is sure to generate significant interest and draw audiences to the historic Halsted Street venue.
The details
The 2026-27 Steppenwolf season will kick off in September with a Chicago production of Suzan-Lori Parks' Pulitzer Prize-winning drama "Topdog/Underdog," directed by Kenny Leon. In October, the theater will premiere Stephanie Alison Walker's comedy "Adirondack Chair Circle," directed by Pam MacKinnon. February 2027 will see the premiere of Branden Jacobs-Jenkins' "The Comeuppance," directed by Tina Landau, in a co-production with American Conservatory Theater. April brings the English-language premiere of Marius von Mayenburg's psychological thriller "Ellen B.," directed by Whitney White. The season concludes in May with the world premiere of Adam Rapp's drama "The Night Fawn," directed by Terry Kinney.
- The 2026-27 Steppenwolf Theatre season runs from September 2026 through July 2027.
- "Topdog/Underdog" will run from September 17 to November 1, 2026.
- "Adirondack Chair Circle" will run from October 22 to December 6, 2026.
- "The Comeuppance" will run from February 4 to March 21, 2027.
- "Ellen B." will run from April 1 to May 9, 2027.
- "The Night Fawn" will run from May 27 to July 3, 2027.
The players
Steppenwolf Theatre
One of the most renowned regional theaters in the United States, located in Chicago, Illinois.
Adam Rapp
A playwright with ties to Chicago who will have the world premiere of his new play "The Night Fawn" at Steppenwolf.
Stephanie Alison Walker
A Chicago-connected playwright whose new comedy "Adirondack Chair Circle" will receive its world premiere at Steppenwolf.
Tina Landau
A director who is returning to Steppenwolf to helm the production of Branden Jacobs-Jenkins' "The Comeuppance."
Branden Jacobs-Jenkins
A Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright whose new play "The Comeuppance" will be co-produced by Steppenwolf and American Conservatory Theater.
The takeaway
Steppenwolf Theatre continues to cement its reputation as a leading incubator of new theatrical works, with a 2026-27 season featuring several world premieres from playwrights with strong ties to the city of Chicago. The mix of established and emerging voices, as well as acclaimed directors, promises an exciting and diverse lineup of productions for Chicago audiences.
