Tech week begins for Strangeloop's 'R.U.R.: Rossum's Universal Robots'

The paint is drying and the last of the trousers are being hemmed. Tech week is underway for R.U.R.: Rossum's Universal Robots as we put the finishing touches on our fall show.

Set in a not-too-distant future, R.U.R.'s world is one in which humanoid robots have been built as the new slave labor for humans determined to find cheaper and cheaper ways to make their products and to do the jobs that no one wants to do. Enter the bewitching Helena Glory, who has arrived at Rossum's island factory determined to find out if robots have a soul and to lobby for their liberation, upsetting the status quo.

Join us for our $5 previews on Sept. 5 and Sept. 6, or anytime during our full run from Sept. 7 through Oct. 6 at The Side Project Theatre in Rogers Park (1439 W. Jarvis Ave., Chicago). The show is at 8 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays.

Company members Holly Robinson (above right) and Michael Wagman (middle) join the cast of nine Chicago actors to bring this Czech classic to life. The cast of R.U.R. is: James Sparling as Harry Domin (above left); Becca Kravitz as Sulla; Michael Wagman as Marius/Radius; Holly Robison as Helena Glory; Rory Jobst as Dr. Gall; Matthew Lloyd as Dr. Hallemeier; Paul Tinsley as Mr. Alquist; Tim Lee as Consul Busman; and Patricia Tinsley as Nana.

The production team for R.U.R. includes: Glen Anderson (set and lighting designer), Maria Burnham (script editor and marketing), Carrie Campana (costume designer), Keith Gatchel (sound designer), Letitia Guillaud (production manager), Jaclyn Jensen (costuming assistant), Lisa Uhlig (props designer) and Mike Wozniak (graphic designer).

Tickets for the full run are $18 for general admission and available online at Brown Paper Tickets. Discounts are available for students and senior citizens. Season passes are also available.