Tim Hopper, Mariann Mayberry Lead Steppenwolf's RUSSIAN TRANSPORT, Opening Tonight

Steppenwolf Theatre Company's Chicago-premiere production of Russian Transport by Erika Sheffer begins tonight, February 16, 2014. Ensemble member Yasen Peyankov directs a cast of five featuring ensemble members Tim Hopper, Mariann Mayberry and Alan Wilder with Aaron Himelstein and Melanie Neilan. This "thoughtful, well-written domestic drama with something original to say about immigrant families living by old world values in a new world culture" (Variety) received its world-premiere production Off-Broadway at The New Group in 2012. Russian Transport began previews February 6, 2014 (opening night is February 16; press performances are February 15 at 3pm and February 18 at 7:30pm) and runs through May 11, 2014 in Steppenwolf's Upstairs Theatre (1650 N Halsted St). Tickets ($20 - 78) are on sale now at steppenwolf.org.

A rowdy Russian family in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn is on a daily hustle to achieve the American Dream. When Uncle Boris arrives from the old country, his mysterious business ventures force the family to decide just how far they are willing to go to come out on top. A funny, passionate family drama that slyly transforms into a heart-pounding thriller, Russian Transport is a fascinating look at the contemporary American immigrant experience.

The production team for Russian Transport includes: Joey Wade (scenic design), Ana Kuzmanic (costume design), Scott Zielinski (lighting design), Rob Milburn and Michael Bodeen (sound design and original music), and Stephan Mazurek (projection design). Additional credits include: Erica Daniels (casting), Scott Weinstein (assistant director), Dassia Posner (dramaturgy), Eva Breneman (dialect coach), Malcolm Ewen (stage manager) and Cassie Calderone (assistant stage manager).

Currently on stage is Tribes by Nina Raine, directed by ensemble member Austin Pendleton (through February 9, 2014) in the Downstairs Theatre.

The 2013/14 Subscription Season also includes The Way West by Mona Mansour, directed by ensemble member Amy Morton (April 3 - June 8, 2014) in the Downstairs Theatre; and The Qualms by Bruce Norris, directed by Pam MacKinnon (July 3 - August 31, 2014) in the Downstairs Theatre.