Megan Mullally Returns to the Stage in Goodman Theatre’s Iceboy!

Megan Mullally, the celebrated actor known for her iconic role in Will & Grace, is making a highly anticipated return to the stage. This June, she stars in Iceboy! or The Completely Untrue Story of How Eugene O’Neill Came to Write The Iceman Cometh at Chicago’s Goodman Theatre. The production, which runs from June 9 through July 26, marks another chapter in Mullally’s storied career that spans television, music, and theater.

An Unconventional Pitch

The production, which Mullally has been workshopping since 2014, offers a unique blend of historical fiction and absurdity. Mullally describes the plot as a grand, comedic tale centered on Vera Vimm, a prominent Broadway star of the 1930s. The narrative takes a surreal turn when a prehistoric boy is discovered frozen in the Antarctic. Following an auction, Vimm secures the frozen figure, leading to a series of unexpected events that eventually involve playwright Eugene O’Neill.

For Mullally, the appeal of the project lies in its originality. She notes that the show is “really funny and weird and different,” filling a niche in the current theatrical landscape that she believes audiences are eager to see.

A Return to Performance

Returning to the stage is a significant milestone for Mullally, who has navigated several health challenges in recent years. After undergoing multiple hip and knee replacement surgeries, she describes a performance with her band, Nancy and Beth, at Largo last October as a “born-again, Christian-revival-meeting, come-to-Jesus moment.” The experience of performing live again after a six-year hiatus was transformative, particularly as she adjusted to what she calls her “bionic body.”

Key Takeaways from Mullally’s Career Reflections

• Theatrical Roots: Her passion for performance began early, influenced by her father’s work in the theater.
• Artistic Balance: While she is widely recognized for her comedic timing, she holds a deep appreciation for the emotional weight of music, often incorporating poignant songs into her sets.
• Creative Curiosity: Mullally maintains a pulse on contemporary culture, recently exploring the Billboard Top 100 to stay connected with modern musical trends, including the work of artists like Billie Eilish and Chappell Roan.
• Chicago Connection: Despite living in Los Angeles, Mullally maintains a strong affinity for Chicago, citing its blend of cultural sophistication and Midwestern warmth as a unique balance.

Looking Ahead

As Mullally prepares for the run of Iceboy!, she maintains a philosophy of artistic fearlessness. When asked what advice she would offer her younger self, her answer is simple: “Don’t be so insecure.” This mindset has served her well, allowing her to transition seamlessly between the small screen and the stage, always prioritizing the pursuit of a laugh or a genuine emotional connection with her audience.

Fans of Mullally can catch her performance at the Goodman Theatre throughout the summer. As she continues to evolve as a performer, her commitment to “funny and weird” projects suggests that her return to the stage is just one of many creative endeavors on the horizon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I see Megan Mullally perform this summer?
Mullally is starring in Iceboy! at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago from June 9 to July 26.

What is the premise of Iceboy!?
The play is a comedic, fictionalized account of how Eugene O’Neill came to write The Iceman Cometh, involving a 1930s Broadway star named Vera Vimm and a prehistoric boy discovered in the Antarctic.

Is Megan Mullally still involved in music?
Yes, she continues to perform with her band, Nancy and Beth, which features a mix of choreography and song.