'10 Virgins' Premieres at Chicago Dramatists April 23

Chicago Dramatists concludes its 29th season with resident playwright Laura Jacqmin's new drama 10 Virgins at Chicago Dramatists (1105 West Chicago Ave); beginning April 23 with an opening Friday May 2 or Saturday May 3 at 8PM (receptions following) with performances through June 1, 2008.

"Ten girls live alone in Wabansia swamp, depending on each other for protection and strength.  But what lies outside of the mist-shrouded bog?  When the oldest of the group goes searching for answers, she comes face-to-face with her family's past, as well as Jenny Greenteeth, the mysterious witch who haunts the swamps.  Fantasy, folklore and reality blend together as the truth is revealed, lying in wait under the soft, wet peat of the marsh.  Five of the sisters are portrayed by four-foot tall non-speaking puppets, whose actions complement and comment on the actions of the older five sisters," describe press notes.

The show is for ages 14 and up (as murder and female sexual encounters depicted on stage), and runs about two hours and 15 minutes with one intermission.

The cast of 10 Virgins includes Chicago Dramatists associate artist Suellen Burton AEA (Ilsebille), with guest artists Catherine Glynn (Märchen), Alison Lani (Rose), Morgan E. K. McNaught (Gretel), and Rebecca Montalvo (Holle), and Penelope Walker (Jenny Greenteeth).  

The creative includes Russ Tutterow (Director), Brian Sidney Bembridge (Scenic Design), Jeff Pines (Lighting Design), Barry Bennett (Sound Design), Kerith Wolf (Costume Design),   Dan Pellant (Properties Design), Allison J. Daniel (Puppet Director/Design), and Lisa Johnson-Willingham (Choreographer).

Previews are April 23, 25 & 26 and May 1 at 8PM. Show times are Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. Insight series panel discussion postshow on May 11 (free with paid ticket)

Tickets: Box Office: 312-633-0630, www.chicagodramatists.org or www.hottix.com. $28 on Fridays and Saturdays; $22 on Thursdays and Sundays; $15 for previews; $10 industry and student tickets (Thursday and Sunday shows only); $17 ($5 off) for mothers on Mother's Day, May 11, 3PM. Group rates for groups of seven or more on request.  

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