Steppenwolf Theatre Faces Layoffs: No Immunity to Failure

Steppenwolf Theatre Company, a renowned arts institution in Chicago, has announced layoffs affecting 12% of its staff due to financial struggles caused by the pandemic. The theater's subscription base has decreased, single-ticket sales are down, and expenses have increased. The layoffs come as the theater already reduced its main stage shows and plans to continue shorter seasons for at least three years. Steppenwolf aims to focus on new work, educational programs, and hosting other theaters while making cuts in other areas. The situation reflects the challenges faced by nonprofit theaters across the country, and the city of Chicago is working to develop a plan to support the struggling theater industry.