A world premiere work is gracing the stage of The Den Theatre in Chicago.
"The Official Biography," a two-person drama by Kurt McGinnis Brown, tells the story of African-American journalist Xan Smith, who travels to the home of aging white novelist Henry Percival to interview him about his life and career. Throughout the play, the two writers struggle with issues of trusting one another, and working through having an honest dialogue about truth in storytelling and the power of the written word. The play, presented by Her Story Theater, runs to April 19.
Shelby Marie Edwards stars as Xan Smith in "The Official Biography" at The Den Theatre in Chicago. Provided photo.
Xan is there to uncover the mystery of the reclusive Percival's life and if his last novel gives insights about the death of his spouse. The characters have many tense exchanges throughout the show as they delve into the past and as Xan attempts to unravel mysteries.
Starring in the engaging production are Gary Houston as Percival and Shelby Marie Edwards as Xan. Both actors offer excellent performances and interact well together.
Playwright Brown's script is well-written and features strong characters. "The Official Biography" was workshopped in The Windy City in 2017 at Chicago Dramatists and also in 2016 at Art Lit Lab in Madison, Wis.
"The Official Biography" runs to April 19 at The Den Theatre in Chicago. Provided photo.
The play is being performed in The Upstairs Main Stage at The Den Theatre.
FYI: "The Official Biography" continues to April 19 at The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. For tickets and more information, visit www.thedentheatre.com or call 773-697-3830. Also visit www.HerStoryTheater.org