Goodman Theatre Cancels Production of Pamplona, Starring Stacy Keach
(© David Gordon)
The Goodman Theatre has canceled all remaining performances of Pamplona, a world premiere by Jim McGrath starring Stacy Keach as Ernest Hemingway and directed by Goodman artistic director Robert Falls. The decision comes after Keach underwent medical testing following his opening night performance, which was halted by Falls midway through when it became clear that Keach was struggling. According to Keach’s family, doctors treating the stage and screen star have advised a period of rest and recuperation.
Ticket holders will be offered a full refund or one of the following options: a Goodman gift certificate equal to the value of the tickets; tickets to the upcoming Ah, Wilderness! by Eugene O’Neill, directed by Steve Scott; or a tax-deductible donation to benefit the theater’s education and engagement programs. A Goodman Theatre Ticket Services representative will be in touch with patrons to make arrangements.
"Pamplona has been the rare, joyous process working with a friend and colleague to realize a passion project. Stacy Keach is one of America’s finest actors, and he and playwright Jim McGrath have rendered a beautiful and complex new piece of theater about an American icon that audiences in 11 preview performances had the opportunity to witness and reward with tremendous enthusiasm and standing ovations," said Falls. "I am in awe of the work Stacy has done and especially of the courage he’s displayed in the face of adversity, and I look forward to our future collaborations. We also wish to thank our Chicago audiences and members of the media for their gracious support during this unusual circumstance."
Pamplona, an 80-minute, one-man show starring Keach as the great American author Ernest Hemingway, was scheduled to run from May 19-June 25 in the Goodman’s 350-seat Owen Theatre. Keach, who has no understudy, given the unique nature of the play and his extensive involvement in the project’s development, completed every preview performance from May 19-28. The May 30 opening night was halted mid-performance, and the following three performances were canceled as Keach underwent medical testing.
