School of Theatre and Dance Presents “Fabulation, or the Re-Education of Undine,” November 20-December 7

PhotoWith its biting humor and fast-paced storytelling, Fabulation explores themes of identity, race, and resilience in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
This social satire explores themes of identity and race through the story of a Black woman’s journey of self-discovery, featuring an all-student cast and production team.

The Columbia College Chicago School of Theatre and Dance continues its 2024–25 season with Lynn Nottage’s acclaimed social satire, Fabulation, or the Re-Education of Undine. Featuring an all-student cast and a production team composed of faculty, staff, and students, the play is directed by Columbia College alum and faculty member Aaron Reese-Boseman ’12. Reese-Boseman, a graduate of the Theatre Directing program, brings his experience and passion for storytelling to this live, in-person production. 

Performances run from November 20 through December 7 (excluding Thanksgiving week) in the Sheldon Patinkin Theatre at the Getz Theatre Center, located at 72 E. 11th St. in Chicago’s South Loop. Discounted tickets are available for students. 

About “Fabulation” 

First produced in 2004, "Fabulation" tells the story of Undine Barnes Calles, an ambitious African American woman whose carefully constructed life unravels when her husband disappears after embezzling all her money. Forced to confront her past and rediscover her roots, Undine embarks on a journey of self-discovery that’s both hilarious and poignant. 

“This play holds a deep, personal connection for me,” says Reese-Boseman in the show’s program notes. He recalls first encountering Nottage’s work during his time as a Columbia College Chicago student.

“I was questioning my identity as a director and Black artist. I expressed my feelings to my dramaturgy professor, the incomparable Kimberly Senior. A hip, bad-ass white woman who informed me that I had the license to do as I please and then some! Ironically and cleverly, she put me on to Fabulation, a satirical story of a Black person having an identity crisis. It makes one ponder about how people, specifically Black people, navigate the world. Do we assimilate? Do we code-switch? Do we lead down a path that makes us unrecognizable? Do we lead with our authenticity?” 

With its biting humor and fast-paced storytelling, "Fabulation" explores themes of identity, race, and resilience in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. “It is beautifully and hilariously tragic,” Reese-Boseman says. “It takes bold swipes at what it may mean to be Black in America. It is a comeuppance story for someone who has denied her culture and must go through hell to find herself again.” 

This production is a must-see for anyone who appreciates socially relevant theatre brought to life by a talented ensemble of emerging and established artists. 

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