Improv Playhouse presents ‘The Last Supper Chronicles’
Improv Playhouse Theater proudly announces the return of “The Last Supper Chronicles,” a poignant and engaging production written and directed by David Brian Stuart.
Now in its 16th year, this compelling dramatization of one of the most significant moments in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ continues to captivate audiences with its thought-provoking and emotionally resonant storytelling.
A respectful yet contemporary rendition of the Last Supper, the play unfolds during a Seder meal, mirroring Jesus’ final earthly Passover and Communion with his disciples. Each disciple is portrayed with a modern-day vocation and a defining quirk or flaw; traits that make them relatable and demonstrate why they were drawn to follow The Teacher, the character representing Jesus.
Featuring a blend of returning and new cast members, including actors from the 2025 production, “The Last Supper Chronicles” offers an intimate glimpse into the minds and hearts of the 12 Disciples as they reflect on their experiences with The Teacher. Some members of the cast, including Stuart, are affiliated with the AFTRA/SAG acting unions.
“I wanted to create a version of the Last Supper that feels real, personal, and immediate,” Stuart said. “Too often, these figures can seem distant or idealized. My goal was to present them as living, breathing individuals; men with doubts, passions, and humor, so that audiences could see themselves in these characters and connect with their struggles and faith.”
How does “The Last Supper Chronicles” differ from traditional Passion plays?
“Many Passion plays focus on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus,” Stuart said. “Our production zeroes in on the human dynamics of that final gathering. Each disciple has a modern-day equivalent — maybe they’re a businessman, a tradesman, or a political activist — and each carries a personal flaw or motivation that compels them to follow The Teacher. There’s tension, camaraderie and reflection, elements that make it feel incredibly present and alive. It’s not just a historical reenactment; it’s a conversation that continues today.”
While the subject matter carries deep spiritual weight, the production is not without moments of levity. Humor surfaces naturally throughout the dialogue, breaking tension and reflecting the camaraderie of friends gathered around a final meal.
Assistant director and performer George Elliot of Hainesville, who portrays Jude, believes that balance of humor and reflection is key to the play’s enduring appeal.
“What makes this piece powerful is that these disciples feel like people we might know today,” Elliot said. “They challenge each other, tease each other, and wrestle with their own questions about faith and loyalty. Those moments of humanity allow the audience to step into the room with them.” Elliot adds that performing the role has deepened his appreciation for the characters portrayed. “Each disciple brings something different to the table, strengths, flaws, convictions. Playing Jude reminds me that faith journeys are rarely simple, and that’s something audiences recognize in themselves.”
Asked what audiences can expect, Stuart said, “We have an amazing cast, and the chemistry between them brings out both the gravity and warmth of the story. Some of our actors are veterans, while others are new to the production, and this blend adds a fresh energy. The play remains thought-provoking and engaging, with moments of laughter, deep reflection, and, ultimately, an invitation to consider the lasting impact of Jesus’ words and actions.”
The cast features Tyler Ankey of Crystal Lake as The Teacher, Jeff Maxwell of Deerfield as Philip, Dan Ness of Palatine as Thomas, Bob Dawson of Gurnee as Matthew, Merlin Hahn of Round Lake as James Minor, George Elliot of Hainesville as Jude, Michael Arbuckle of Libertyville as James Major, Michael Scott Blackman of Lake Geneva as Andrew, Redelle Lawrence of McHenry as Simon the Zealot, Steven Plumhoff of Gurnee as Peter, Dan Plumhoff of Gurnee as John, Dave Valancius of Libertyville as Bartholomew and Romeo Sobrepena of Lindenhurst as Judas.
George Elliot, a member of SAG-AFTRA, has appeared in the production since its inception with more than 100 performances and also serves as a member of the Hainesville Village Board. The assistant director is George Elliot.
Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors 60 and older, $15 for students with ID, $10 for children under 12, free for members of the clergy, and $20 per person for groups of 10 or more (call office for more information).
Performance Dates are 7 p.m. Saturdays, March 28 and April 4; 2:30 p.m. Sunday, March 29; 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, April 2-3. Improv Playhouse is at 130 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville,
In addition to its public performances, the ensemble is also touring the production to adult retirement communities as part of Improv Playhouse’s community outreach efforts, bringing this meaningful theatrical experience to audiences who may not be able to attend the theater.
Celebrating more than 25 years of entertaining, educating and elevating audiences throughout the region, Improv Playhouse continues its mission of producing meaningful theater that engages both the heart and mind.
For tickets and more information, visit improvplayhouse.com, or call (847) 968-4529.