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First Folio Theatre revives 'Madness,' stages heist comedy

A revival of a seasonal favorite and a gender-conscious take on one of William Shakespeare's greatest plays are on tap for First Folio Theatre's 23rd season.

The season begins Oct. 3 at Oak Brook's Mayslake Peabody Estate with a revival of "The Madness of Edgar Allan Poe: A Love Story." Adapted by co-founder and executive director David Rice from several Poe poems and short stories, the play stars artistic associates Christian Gray and Heather Chrisler as the tormented Poe and his beloved wife, Virginia.

Next up is the heist comedy "All Childish Things" (Jan. 23-Feb. 24, 2019) by artistic associate Joseph Zettelmaier, whose gothic thrillers "The Man-Beast," "Dr. Seward's Dracula" and "The Gravedigger" were featured in recent First Folio seasons. The play centers on longtime "Star Wars" fans plotting to steal a valuable collection of collectibles.

Meridith Friedman's political drama "The Firestorm" follows. It's about an interracial couple whose political ambitions are threatened by a racially charged incident from the husband's past. Artistic associate Rachel Lambert directs the show, which runs March 27 to April 28, 2019.

First Folio's 2018-2019 season concludes under the stars next summer with "Henry V," Shakespeare's portrayal of the making of a king and the establishment of an empire. Artistic associate Hayley Rice directs the production, which stars Diana Coates as the titular character and runs July 10 to Aug. 19, 2019.

Performances take place at Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 31st St., Oak Brook. Season subscriptions start at $58. Three- and four-show packages are available. Subscribe by Aug. 1 and receive an additional $5 off the subscription rate. (630) 986-8067 or firstfolio.org.

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