Steppenwolf Theatre commemorates 50 years with a glamorous gala

For five decades, Steppenwolf Theatre Company has created art and developed shows to entertain audiences. The troupe also knows how to throw an outstanding fundraiser to continue their mission of creating “thrilling, courageous and provocative art.”

Founded in 1974 by a trio of performers in Highland Park, Illinois, the organization eventually moved to Chicago at 1650 North Halsted Street. The multipurpose venue served the institution well as a place to house a party and raise money for their cause.

For Gala 2025, the theme was Half Century Full Throttle and “formidably fabulous” fashion was encouraged on May 10. As guests entered the establishment, they followed the maze where the space was maximized to full capacity and were greeted with refreshments.

The night's festivities began with a 6 p.m. cocktail hour and passed appetizers. It was a chance to mingle with longtime Steppenwolf ensemble members and meet important

Supportive dignitaries, glamorous celebrities and political figures were all part of the mix that Saturday. Curated lighting added ambience throughout the rooms and sounds from DJ Rae Chardonnay added to the atmosphere.

At 7 p.m., ticket holders moved into the Downstairs Theater on the ground level and others filed into the upstairs balcony. A historical video montage presentation was followed by thoughtful speeches from passionate members of the organization. Many of the 49 members were on hand to celebrate and be recognized on the stage with a toast dedicated to the Steppenwolf legacy.

Educational and community programs were highlighted, along with the annual LookOut series packed full of unique stories from local Windy City talent. To support these programs monetarily, an interactive live auction was held from the stage. Assembled packages up for bid included an excursion for four to LA to tour the set of Hulu's Paradise and a trip to Nashville to see Steppenwolf's founder, Gary Sinise, rock out in concert. Several winners paid over $10,000 for the experiences and the night raised almost 1.5 million dollars. Sponsors included Allstate and Northern Trust, among others. 

Many spectators were left gobsmacked and gagged with a surprise appearance of RuPaul Drag Racer Shea Coulee. Huge scenic projections and cheerleader backup dancers added to the well-crafted lip synching performance before Shea closed with Doechii's track “Denial Is a River.”

After stirring up an appetite from excitement, the crowd headed to the lobby and open bar areas to enjoy action stations with small plate offerings.

Following dinner service, various desserts were passed by the event staff and a special donut wall pop-up had sugar lovers grabbing treats right off the hook. Coffee was served and 50th anniversary cookies were given out as people exited the building.

The future looks bright for the esteemed organization with a Chicago premiere of Mr. Wolf on the horizon and a world premiere of Windfall this season.

The upcoming production of You Will Get Sick follows the yellow brick road from June 5 to July 13. Secure the cure for tickets at steppenwolf.org