Kathryn Erbe, renowned for her work on both stage and screen, has returned to Chicago, her artistic roots, as a cherished member of the Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble.

After many years away, Erbe captivates theatergoers with her performance in “The Dance of Death,” marking a triumphant return to the city.

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Describing the play as a delightful blend of humor and darkness, Erbe reflects on the nostalgia of performing on her home stage.

“The Dance of Death,” penned by August Strindberg and reimagined by Connor McPherson, explores the tumultuous yet comical lives of a couple entrenched in a troubled marriage.

Erbe commented, “Life can be bleak and monotonous, but they inject excitement into it, even if it causes some chaos. Her character is fiery and fierce—it’s exhilarating to embody that. At 60, I’ve embraced who I am, finding a newfound liberation I never had before.”

She also expressed her pride in being part of the illustrious Steppenwolf legacy.

“It’s quite truthfully a dream come true; I could cry,” Erbe said. “I don’t have words to say how meaningful it is to be a member of this company that has brought me personally such inspiration. I could see how audiences come to participate. They come to collaborate almost. They want you to be good; they want to enjoy the experience, and meet, meet one more than halfway it feels like.”

She said she had her own perspective on the work.

“I brought that, and they said, ‘thank you.’ And that is not always the case everywhere. I love who I am, and I value myself. And I bring myself to these characters. And I get to live as someone else for awhile, and that’s fun. And I think it really brings empathy,” Erbe said. “We’re so divided and any way we can come together and have joy and humor and humanity I think is a good thing.”

“The Dance of Death” is at Steppenwolf through March 22.