Photo Flash: In Rehearsal with Amy Morton and More in the World Premiere of THE WAY WEST at Steppenwolf

Chicago audiences depart for the country's western edge to experience the reality of the modern-day American dream in the world premiere of Mona Mansour's funny and insightful new play, The Way West, at Steppenwolf Theatre Company. Ensemble member Amy Morton is at the helm following her Tony Award-nominated portrayal of Martha in Steppenwolf's production of Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? on Broadway. The cast of six features Ira Amyx, ensemble member Martha Lavey, Caroline Neff, Deirdre O'Connell,Zoe Perry and Gabe Ruiz. The Way West begins previews April 3, 2014 (opening night is April 13; press performances are April 12 at 3pm and April 15 at 7:30pm) and runs through June 8, 2014 in Steppenwolf's Downstairs Theatre (1650 N Halsted St). BroadwayWorld has a sneak peek at the cast and creative team in rehearsal below!

In a modern-day California town that's seen better days, Mom (O'Connell) shares death-defying tales of pioneer crossings with her two squabbling adult daughters (Neff, Perry) as she waits for her bankruptcy to come through. This hilarious and heartbreaking play about today's American family explores the mixed blessing of our great frontier spirit, which has fueled both self-delusion and survival.

The cast of The Way West features Deirdre O'Connell (Mom), Caroline Neff (Meesh), Zoe Perry (Manda), Gabe Ruiz (Manny), ensemblemember Martha Lavey (Tress) and Ira Amyx (Pizza Delivery Guy).

The production team for The Way West includes: Kevin Depinet (scenic design), Nan Cibula-Jenkins (costume design), David Weiner (lighting design), Rob Milburn and Michael Bodeen (sound design, original music and arrangements) and Malcolm Ruhl (musical director). Additional credits include: Erica Daniels (casting), Deb Styer (stage manager) and Michelle Medvin (assistant stage manager).

Tickets to The Way West ($20 - $78) are on sale now through Audience Services (1650 N Halsted St), 312-335-1650 and steppenwolf.org.

Photo Credit: Joel Moorman