RANCH TRIANGLE — Steppenwolf Theatre has added Namir Smallwood as the 48th member of its ensemble.
Smallwood is currently appearing at the theater in a side role in "Monster," the story of a teenage filmmaker in juvenile detention, part of the company's series for young adults. He previously appeared in the Steppenwolf productions of "Man in Love" and "Hot L Baltimore."
"I have been a fan of Namir's since the first time I saw him onstage, here at Steppenwolf," said Artistic Director Anna Shapiro. "His ability to completely transform, inhabit and magnify each moment is truly astonishing and we are excited for all that he will bring to the company."
"I get a chance to expand my unique gifts and perspective and add something to this particular tapestry," Smallwood said. "For that, I am deeply honored."
Smallwood was named one of the city's "Hot New Faces" by the Tribune last year.
In other Steppenwolf news of note, ensemble member Tarell Alvin McCraney took home an Oscar Sunday for his screenplay of "Moonlight," written with director Barry Jenkins and adapted from a McCraney story. McCraney has previously had "The Brother/Sister Plays" and "Head of Passes" produced at the company. He's a graduate of the DePaul University Theater School.