Stephen Wallem Joins Porchlight Music Theatre’s Follies In Concert at Studebaker Theater
CHICAGO — Chicago theatre veteran and television actor Stephen Wallem has joined the cast of Porchlight Music Theatre’s upcoming Porchlight in Concert production of Follies**, stepping into the role of Buddy Plummer. Wallem replaces previously announced cast member Alexander Gemignani, who withdrew due to a scheduling conflict.
The staged concert production will be presented Saturday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 26 at 2 p.m. at the Studebaker Theater, located at 410 South Michigan Avenue.
A Celebrated Chicago Performer Joins the Cast
Wallem is a familiar presence on Chicago stages and brings decades of theatrical experience to the role. His addition strengthens a cast that already includes Michelle Duffy as Phyllis Rogers Stone, Angela Ingersoll as Sally Plummer, and Anthony Rapp as Benjamin Stone.
The production is directed by Porchlight Artistic Director Michael Weber, with music direction by Linda Madonia.
Large Ensemble and Creative Team Announced
The concert will feature an extensive ensemble of Chicago-based performers, including Anastasia Arnold, Dale Benson, John Cardone, John Concepcion, Teagan Earley, Felicia P. Fields, James Harms, Beck Hokanson, Cecilia Iole, Will Koski, John Marshall Jr., Susie McMonagle, Lauren Miller, Mary Robin Roth, Genevieve Thiers, Sybyl Walker, and Honey West.
The creative team includes assistant director Brenda Didier, lighting designer Eric Watkins, sound designer Matthew R. Chase, projections designer Liviu Pasare, production stage manager Bill Walters, assistant stage manager Drew Donnelly, and production supervisor Frank Rose.
About Follies and Its Legacy
Winner of seven Tony Awards, Follies features music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by James Goldman. The musical is set at a reunion of former showgirls from the Weismann Follies, held on the eve of their theater’s demolition.
The show explores themes of memory, regret, aging, and unrealized dreams, with a celebrated score that includes “I’m Still Here,” “Broadway Baby,” and “Losing My Mind.”
Tickets and Educational Programming
Single tickets for Follies in Concert are reserved seating and range from $104.50 to $159.50. Tickets are available through Porchlight Music Theatre, by phone at 312-753-3210, or in person at the Studebaker Theater box office.
In addition to the concert, Porchlight will offer a four-week virtual class titled The Creation and History of Follies, led by Jeff Award winner Christopher Pazdernik, running March 28 through April 18 as part of the company’s Hobbyist programming.
As Porchlight Music Theatre brings Follies back to the Chicago stage in concert form, the addition of Stephen Wallem adds another respected voice to an already standout production. For more Chicago theatre news, performance announcements, and in-depth coverage of the city’s live arts scene, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.