Renowned director Robert Falls, former artistic director of Goodman Theatre, is now leading a successful production of Amadeus at Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago. His remarkable tenure at Goodman has set the stage for this latest accomplishment, which has garnered significant attention and praise.
A Journey from Illinois Roots to Theatre Stardom
Falls, who hails from the small farming community of Ashland, Illinois, reflected on his journey, stating, “I grew up in this farming community, 900 people downstate Illinois… I did, however, come up here for my high school years, grew up out in Villa Park and Lombard area.” His passion for storytelling began early, as he often organized plays with neighborhood friends. “I’ve just been lucky to continue to do that my whole life,” he added.
The current production of Amadeus marks another milestone in Falls’s career. The play delves into themes of envy and jealousy, centered around the rivalry between the established composer Antonio Salieri and the young prodigy Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Falls described the narrative: “It’s about one man who is the leading composer of his day. And suddenly, this young kid comes into town, Mozart, and it rocks his life.” This exploration of genius and talent continues to resonate with audiences today.
Timeless Themes in a Modern Context
Falls pointed out the relevance of the play’s themes in today’s world, particularly in the age of social media. “We’ve fallen into a world of envy because of that little device we carry around in our hands, and people perfectly curating their lives on Facebook or on Twitter,” he explained. “People are always thinking, ‘oh, there’s somebody out there who’s having a better life than I’m having.’” This contemporary connection adds depth to the production, inviting audiences to reflect on their own experiences.
Looking back at his time with Goodman Theatre, Falls acknowledged the close-knit nature of Chicago’s theatre scene. “Steppenwolf and the Goodman have always been the two leading theater companies, without a doubt in the city. I realized I’ve worked with over half of the ensemble members,” he remarked. The intimate setting of Steppenwolf enhances the audience’s experience, creating a unique connection between performers and spectators.
One of Falls’s favorite aspects of directing is witnessing the transformative power of theater. “The great thing about theater at its best is it can be thoughtful. I’ve seen it change people’s lives,” he said. He emphasized the joy of introducing young people to the world of theater, noting how it can open doors to new experiences. “There’s nothing more pleasurable than that,” he concluded.
Due to popular demand, Amadeus has been extended at Steppenwolf and will run through January 25, 2024. Falls’s leadership in this production not only showcases his artistic prowess but also reaffirms his status as a vital figure in the Chicago theatre community.
