The Rock River Players are putting on the play Glengarry Glen Ross, directed by Bahman Mahdavi, which takes place in 1980s Chicago. The play portrays the cutthroat world of real estate agents who will do anything to make a sale, reflecting the “greed is good” mentality of the time. The show features a talented cast, but Mahdavi and the actors noted the difficulty of portraying such morally corrupt and toxic characters. The play involves dialogue with racist and anti-LGBTQ epithets, and there was some consideration of scrapping the production, but the cast and crew ultimately decided to go forward with the show. Cast members said the atmosphere during rehearsals was positive and open, allowing them to explore the heavy material together. The play is noted for its relevance to the current polarized political environment in the United States, and the connection between the 1980s greed mentality and contemporary politics, particularly in relation to former president Donald Trump. The play discusses the American dream and the idea that hard work is not always rewarded, as the characters in the play have to be ruthless to get ahead. Showtimes for Glengarry Glen Ross are available on the Rock River Players website, and tickets can be purchased online.

Source: https://www.reformer.com/arts_and_culture/rock-river-players-get-greedy-for-glengarry-glen-ross/article_6ebc2776-7d83-11ee-a704-8bac5ee7a5fa.html