Ensemble Member Namir Smallwood Joins the Cast of Steppenwolf Theatre Company’s Chicago Premiere of ‘Mr. Wolf’

Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre Company announced ensemble member Namir Smallwood (You Will Get Sick, True West, Bug) will join the cast of ensemble member Rajiv Joseph’s Chicago premiere of Mr. Wolf, directed by ensemble member K. Todd Freeman. Smallwood replaces ensemble member James Vincent Meredith, who is stepping away due to a scheduling conflict.

Launching Steppenwolf’s 50th Anniversary Season, this unflinching family drama will play September 11 – November 2, 2025, in Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theater, 1650 N. Halsted St. in Chicago.

The full cast of Mr. Wolf includes ensemble members Kate Arrington (East of Eden, Another Marriage–Playwright), Tim Hopper (Fool for Love, The Thanksgiving Play), Caroline Neff (Fool for Love, POTUS) and Namir Smallwood (You Will Get Sick, True West, Bug) with Emilie Maureen Hanson (Steppenwolf debut).

Mr. Wolf explores Theresa, an infant stolen from her parents 14 years prior.  Now, the precocious 15-year-old has been rescued, and quickly returned to a family that had nearly forsaken hope – a family she neither recognizes nor understands. A miraculous reunion sets the stage for provocative conversations: what makes a house a home? What nightmares are we willing to face for the sake of our children? And ultimately, what part do we play in the grand saga of human existence?

Steppenwolf Artistic Directors Glenn Davis and Audrey Francis noted, “We are elated to launch Steppenwolf’s 50th Season with Mr. Wolf, a truly daring play that showcases the kind of acting this company is known for: unflinching, honest and gutsy. And what a team! Between the cast and director, there are over 110 collective years of Steppenwolf ensemble membership ready to get to work. We’re honored that K. Todd Freeman is back directing at Steppenwolf, and we can’t wait to see what he, and this stellar cast, have in store for Rajiv’s thrilling play that takes us deep into nightmarish circumstances and asks uncomfortable questions about the bonds of family. Killer actors and juicy family drama: there’s no better way to kick off this landmark season than by doubling down on what makes Steppenwolf singular.”

The production creative team includes Walt Spangler (Scenic Design), Dede Ayite (Costume Design), Keith Parham (Lighting Design), Josh Schmidt (Sound Design and Original Music), Rasean Davonté Johnson (Projection Design), Kate DeVore (Voice Coach), Jonathan L. Green (Dramaturg), Patrick Zakem (Creative Producer), Elise Hausken (Production Manager), JC Clementz, CSA (Casting), Michelle Medvin (Production Stage Manager) and Kathleen Barrett (Assistant Stage Manager.

Tickets are on sale at steppenwolf.org or the Box Office at (312) 335-1650. The press opening is Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 6 pm.