Laurie Metcalf is a legend from her work on TV (Roseanne, the Connors), and film (Lady Bird earning an Academy Award nomination), but her heart belongs where it all started: on Stage with Steppenwolf Theatre. Chicago gets the treat of watching Metcalf at her best in the world premiere of  “Little Bear Ridge Road.” Directed by Joe Mantello (“Wicked,” “Angels in America”) and co-starring Micah Stock, John Drea and Meighan Gerachis, the play focuses on Sarah Fernsbe (Metcalf) who lives alone in a rural part of Idaho who gets a visit by her nephew Ethan (Stock). Awkward conversations, a search for relational overlap and finding a way to make sense of the difficult familial dynamics guide the play. Set on the most simple of sets (a couch on carpeting), director Mantello loved how that gave the scenery a chance to “get out of the actors’ way.”

This conversation is an in-depth look at the new play with wonderful insights shared by cast and director. If you saw the play, watch/listen to this…if you have not yet seen the play, you have until August 4th…and you should ALSO watch/listen. You’ll be glad you did.

Tickets can be purchased at www.steppenwolf.org

Review: Bear Ridge Road

Laurie Metcalf is Stellar in new Steppenwolf Play

****/4 Not just highly Recommended, but the Highest of Recommendations

When you see the stark stage with only a couch as the set, the expectation is that the performances need to be striking because there is nothing else on set to distract or replace a powerful performance. Add to that a cast that totals 4, but mostly relies on 3 of the actors, and the demands and opportunities for memorable performances are clear.

This play is not to be missed.

Written specifically for Metcalf and director, Joe Mantello, this production brings together their incredible talents. What Metcalf can do with a simple facial expression or even a hand vacuum, is both masterful performance and direction.

The characters are flawed to be sure, but likely as a result of a dysfunctional family and existing in a rural part of Idaho that would be anyone’s last stop unless they can find a way out….here, Sara’s nephew Ethan (masterfully played by Micah Stock) and the boyfriend he comes to meet (a great Steppenwolf debut for well known Chicago actor, John Drea) meet, and different as they are, the options for relationships are few and far between so they try and make it work.

Fans of Metcalf from her TV work will certainly not be disappointed, but truthfully, the stage is clearly her first love and where she shines most brightly. It’s a grand return for the Steppenwolf ensemble member and she comfortably and clearly….is home!

Plays through August 4th with tickets at: www.Steppenwolf.org