Award-Winning Edward Hall Returns To Chicago Shakespeare Theater As Artistic Director

Award-winning director Edward Hall steps into his new role of Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s artistic director—and reunites with Tony Award-nominated actress Katy Sullivan on the stage.

Edward Hall reimagines Shakespeare’s thrilling Richard III in his first production as Chicago Shakespeare’s artistic director.

Edward Hall knows his way around Chicago Shakespeare Theater, having directed the company’s award-winning Rose Rage in 2003. Now the acclaimed theater, film and television director has returned in a new role: artistic director. He kicks off his tenure with Richard III, a historical tragedy he describes as “Shakespeare’s greatest political thriller.” After leading London’s Hampstead Theater as artistic director and joint chief executive for nearly a decade, he’s eager to return to the Windy City. “It has been a very busy first couple of months for me at Chicago Shakespeare Theater,” he shares. “I planned this production well before I knew I was going to become artistic director, so it’s a happy accident that I will be immediately getting to know the incredible team here behind the scenes as we create this show together.”

Katy Sullivan

The show’s premiere marks not only Hall’s reunion with the theater but also with lead Kate Sullivan, Tony Award-nominated actress and paralympian who starred in Hall’s staging of Pulitzer-prize winning The Cost of Living in London in 2019. “[I’m excited about] getting the chance to work with Ed Hall again,” she shares. “We had a great time working together.” Sullivan, who has played roles on network and Goodman Theatre shows, as well as her acting debut in Northlight Theatre’s 2004 production of Lady Windemere’s Fan, adds, “Having this opportunity in Chicago is beyond exciting, and to be back and living in this vibrant community of artists feels like coming home… I’m not sure if it gets better than this.” And there’s no doubt Hall feels the same: “[I’m feeling] a great sense of excitement,” says Hall. “Ever since [2019], I’ve wanted to do Richard III with her”.

It’s a full-circle experience for both and a major moment for the theater as they bring Shakespeare’s classic to life on stage. “Once you’ve done all the prep work, it’s all about being present in the moment,” Sullivan concludes. “There will probably be a pretty epic pre-show playlist.” Feb. 2-March 3, 800 E. Grand Ave.