Steppenwolf Theatre Company kicks in the 2013 season with a dark comedy that is both engaging and compelling from the opening scene that has “Jackie” finding the hat of his girlfriend “Veronica’s” alleged lover. Just out of prison, “Jackie” takes a big step towards starting his new life by getting himself a job. However, everything takes a turn once “Jackie” is convinced “Veronica” is seeing someone on the side and his “new life” is no longer his priority. Jackie finds solace in talking things through with his sponsor “Ralph D. and “Cousin Julio”.
Written by Stephen Adly Guirgia, fast dialogue and lots of cursing make this story move quickly and with realism. The story has plenty of on edge moments, but also rounds out well with a good amount of funny lines and sexy scenes. The story flows smoothly and never threatens to lose audience interest. Fun twists and turns await around every corner in this witty show directed by ensemble member Anna D. Shapiro.
John Ortiz (“Jackie”) and Jimmy Smits (“Ralph D.”) put forth the dazzling performances that one would expect in a Steppenwolf production. Both are able to take command of the stage in each scene performed, as well as get good laughs from the audience. Ortiz and Smits roll with “Motherf**ker”, have fun with it and kick its ass. “Dynamite” would be the word of choice regarding both of their performances.
Sandra Delgado, Sandra Marquez and Gary Perez round out the talented cast and each are excellent in their own right. Perez as “Cousin Julio” had some very funny scenes. The cast shows great chemistry together and the story is rich in displaying the different behaviors in humans incited by the circumstances that surround the characters – both good and bad.
The thoroughly entertaining “The Motherf**ker With The Hat” is well worth seeing and is playing through March 3rd in the downstairs theatre of Steppenwolf (1650 N Halsted St). For tickets and/or more information on “The Motherf**ker With The Hat”, visit www.steppenwolf.org.
