How I Learned to Drive
Written by Paula Vogel Directed by Cody Estle Associate Directed by Kristen Johnson
Produced by Raven Theatre
“In Raven Theatre’s current production,[...]Vogel’s story unspools with sensitivity, yet seldom spares our sensibilities. It’s not always easy to watch, nor should it be.” * * * - Chicago Tribune
“[The directors’] work with this cast is the true strength of this production, creating a sense of unity and clarity in the tight-knit ensemble. [...] Their storytelling is emotionally resonant and exists as the heart of this “Drive.””- Newcity Stage
“Telling one tough tale truly, Vogel could not have guessed in 1997 how vital this literally driving drama would prove to be today. Raven Theatre has done us proud by restoring its horrors and its healing.”- Stage and Cinema
“And Estle’s direction itself, as he gets so many disparate performances from his small set of actors, as he toys with set changes when the mood is appropriate (at one point turning it into a dance), as transition moments take on a life of their own, and as he and Intimacy Director Rachel Flesher handle disturbing, difficult moments with painful aplomb, is extraordinary. If you’ve never seen Vogel’s masterwork before, you owe it to yourself to see this production. If you have, Estle manages to mine new depths from a powerful script. It’s not a comfortable, uplifting show, but it’s an excellent one. Don’t miss it.” “ this play that is somehow terribly creepy, powerfully poignant, and hilariously funny, occasionally at the same time. Raven’s production, artfully directed by Cody Estle, highlights all three of these elements as well as a fourth: the pathos of a man and woman caught up in this seemingly endless cycle of pain and power told through the symbolic structure of a driving lesson.” - Chicago On Stage
UNDERSTUDIES
Sophie Scanlon for Li’l Bit
Terry Gallagher for Uncle Peck
Adam Cole for Male Greek Chorus
Danielle Wheeler for Female Greek Chorus
Claudia Iao for Teenage Greek Chorus
CAST
Eliza Stoughton* as Li’l Bit
Mark Ulrich* as Uncle Peck
Julian Hester as Male Greek Chorus
Kathryn Acosta as Female Greek Chorus
Katherine Bourne Taylor as Teenage Greek Chorus
* Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Associate
CREATIVE TEAM
Director Cody Estle
Associate Director Kristen Johnson
Set Designer Jeffrey D. Kmiec
Costume Designer Theresa Ham
Asst. Costume Designer Ian Liberman
Lighting Designer Becca Jeffords
Sound Designer Josh Schmidt
Asst. Sound Designer Colin Kovarik
Projections Designer Tony Churchill
Props Designer Abbie Cain
Dialect Coach Kathy Logelin
Technical Director Alan Weusthoff
Scenic Artist Eileen Rozycki
Master Electrician Andy Kloubec
Intimacy Director Rachel Flesher
Stage Manager Mara Sagal
Production Manager Cole von Glahn
Asst. Director Chris Farrell
Asst. Stage Manager Wilhelm Peters