The Steep Theatre (Chicago) production of Lela & Co, directed by UNC Charlotte theatre professor Robin Witt, has been nominated for six Joseph Jefferson (Jeff) Awards, honoring non-Equity Chicago theatre.
Lela & Co. was presented July 13 - September 16, 2017. It was the U.S. premiere of the play, by British playwright Cordelia Lynn. The production received glowing reviews from the Chicago press, and in December The Chicago Tribune named Lela & Co. as the #2 best Chicago theatre production of 2017. It has received Jeff Award nominations in the categories of Best Production, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, Best Scenic Design, and Best Lighting Design. The winners will be announced at the 45th annual Jeff Awards ceremony on June 11.
Witt works regularly in Chicago theatre and has directed numerous productions at the Steep Theatre, as well as the Griffin Theatre Company, the Goodman, A Red Orchid Theatre, and Steppenwolf. In 2015 and 2016 she won Jeff Awards in the category of "Best Director (Play)."