October 21–24, 2026, at 7:30 PM · Opening: October 25 at 3 PM · Through: November 15

Collaboraction presents the world premiere of Mud Life, written by G. Riley Mills and Willie Round and directed by Anthony Moseley. Roc and his cousin Tae, two aspiring hip-hop artists from Chicago’s West Side, face a choice that could change their futures and fracture their bond. Inspired by Round’s experience growing up in North Lawndale, the play features Round as Roc. $15 preview tickets are available October 21–24. Each show includes a pre-show lounge and open mic.

From North Lawndale to the Stage: Collaboraction’s Mud Life

Willie Round’s experience growing up in North Lawndale informs Mud Life, the new play he wrote with G. Riley Mills. Round stars as Roc, an aspiring hip-hop artist trying to build a future alongside his cousin Tae. When an outsider offers them a way out from under a manipulative club owner, opportunity puts their loyalty to each other under pressure.

Directed by Anthony Moseley, Collaboraction’s world premiere brings the story to Kimball Arts Center for previews beginning October 21. Tickets for the four preview performances are $15; the play opens October 25 and runs through November 15

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