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In recent years, especially, Steppenwolf Theatre of Chicago has increased its recognition value and rep for quality -- the production of "August: Osage County" that moved to New York, then London, now elsewhere, being a good example.

I traveled for a couple of days to Chicago earlier this week and, though there was not a great deal of theatre being offered in mid-August, I was lucky enough that "Up" was being presented on the main stage at Steppenwolf, and a good friend from college who works there during the week could accompany me.

Interesting story, good set/effects, fine lighting, very nice acting indeed (including in the lead male role the actor who originated the role of "Little Charles" in "August: Osage County," under the same director who handled "August") -- quite a nice night in the theater indeed. But for me, a fan back to his days in the movie "Manhunter," followed by those nine years as Gil Grissom in "CSI," it was a great pleasure to sit a few rows up the aisle from William Petersen, now an ensemble member at Steppenwolf. A very nice added spice to being at the theatre in the first place.