Synopsis

In a posh home in a small town in Africa, a wealthy American entrepreneur, flamboyant government representative, young Christian missionary and his girlfriend meet by accident. When one of them goes missing, they are forced to confront their benevolent notions of themselves and the realities of the world. The result is a stunning comedic effect: hilarious characters with something vital to say.

Running Time

Running Time: 2 hours, including 1 Intermission

Content Advisory

Steppenwolf does not offer advisories about subject matter, as sensitivities vary from person to person.If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects(such as strobe lights or theatrical fog) that might have a bearing on patron comfort, please contact the box office at 312-335-1650.

Watch & Listen

The Unmentionables in Production
Behind the Scenes of The Unmentionables

Cast & Artists

The Artists

Featured Ensemble Members

The Cast

Reviews

"Highly Recommended! Shapiro’s staging is subtle and intelligent, and the cast is stellar... A triumph!" –Chicago Reader

"Takes no prisoners. Very clever, very funny!" -Chicago Tribune

"The acting is first rate: blisteringly funny, beyond brilliant!" –Chicago Sun Times

"Norris is much more than a talented playwright, he’s an important one." -Time Out Chicago

"Fine and funny, memorable for its incisive comic commentary" –Variety

"Undeniably witty and polished!" –New City

"Riveting...Exceptional acting and stellar production values" –Daily Herald

Program Articles

Guilt Trip


On the Steppenwolf Blog, playwright Bruce Norris shares his experience of traveling to Africa in conjunction with his play The Unmentionables, running June 29–August 27, 2006. What follows are excerpts from Norris’ travelogue.

Martha Lavey on The Unmentionables


Artistic Director Martha Lavey discusses Bruce Norris' new play, The Unmentionables.

Mentioning Norris


Morton and Shapiro on Bruce Norris, whose play The Unmentionables runs in the Steppenwolf Downstairs Theatre, June 29 – August 27, 2006.

Welcome to the 30th Season at Steppenwolf


Martha Lavey, Steppenwolf's Artistic Director, reflects on the theatre's thirty years of growth and the process behind presenting a groundbreaking anniversary season.

Running Time

Running Time: 2 hours, including 1 Intermission

Content Advisory

Steppenwolf does not offer advisories about subject matter, as sensitivities vary from person to person.If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects(such as strobe lights or theatrical fog) that might have a bearing on patron comfort, please contact the box office at 312-335-1650.