Jackalope Theatre Company’s 16th Season Begins the the Smuggler, at its new home in Berger Park

CHICAGO –Jackalope Theatre Companyis proud to launch its 16th season at its new home in Edgewater’s Berger Park, 6205 N. Sheridan Rd., with the Chicago premiere of the solo performance The Smuggler, February 16 – March 16, by Ronán Noone, directed by Gus Menary. The running time is currently 75 minutes with no intermission.Previews are Friday, Feb. 16 and Saturday, Feb. 17 at 7:30 p.m. with the performance schedule of Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15-25 and are on sale now at JackalopeTheatre.org or by calling the box office at 773-340-2543.

The Smuggler is a thriller in rhyme. It is 2023. Tim Finnegan is a clever and enterprising Irish immigrant tending bar on the island of Amity, an affluent summer enclave off the coast of Massachusetts. When his child falls ill and he loses his job, Finnegan is drawn into the dark world that exists only in the shadows of the wealthy island. The Smuggler has been called “Terrific” by The New Yorker, “Spellbinding” by DC Metro Arts and a “Ripping Yarn” by the Boston Globe. One part “Breaking Bad,” one part Beowulf,The Smuggler is a modern tale of corruption, morality and giant rats that asks what it means to call yourself a “citizen.”

“We’re thrilled to announce the first play in Jackalope’s 16th Season, housed at Chicago Park District’s Berger Park Coach House,” said Artistic Director Kaiser Ahmed. “The Smuggler is a hypnotic and lyrical feat that’s been making its way around the country in recent seasons. I know our audiences will be charmed and challenged by the questions of citizenship this one-man show explores. After a challenging and transformative year, we’re building momentum in a new era for our company. By producing in Edgewater at Berger Park Coach House and operating at Loyola Park, we are strengthening connections to our community while expanding our neighborhood footprint.” 

Jackalope recently moved its offices, rehearsal space and education program to Loyola Park Fieldhouse in Rogers Park and have worked closely with the Chicago Park District to ensure a sustainable path forward in their partnership. “We are grateful to head into 2024 in continued collaboration with the Chicago Park District.” said Interim Executive Director Andrew Swanson. “We feel fortunate to have this opportunity to continue forward with our mission and our commitment to our community.”