Jon Michael Hill, Waukegan native and University of Illinois graduate, stars in ‘Leroy & Lucy’ at Steppenwolf Theater Chicago

CHICAGO (WLS) — The world premiere of “Leroy & Lucy” is at the Steppenwolf Theater.

It’s about Jon Michael Hill, a native of Waukegan and a graduate of the University of Illinois.

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“Leroy & Lucy” is inspired by the lore of blues great Robert Leroy Johnson. Legend has it that he gave his soul to the devil to become a music legend.

Brittany Bradford plays the mystical woman who helps an artist desperate for his gift.

Hill, one of the ensemble’s brightest stars, told ABC7 about this vibrant story of souls connecting over a passion for music.

“This play is really a story about people who need transformation and people who are a little bit isolated and need to realize their potential. And they can’t do that without each other,” Hill said. “So it’s mysterious. It’s creepy. It’s kind of sexy. And you see how this love story plays out.”

Hill told ABC7 what he did to prepare for the role.

“I play guitar, but I’m not the king of the Delta Blues, but there was a lot of work to be done. I learned the harmonica for this show so, yeah, the preparation for this started early,” Hill said. .

Hill also talked about Steppenwolf and being part of the ensemble there.

“It’ll soon be 20 years. I first auditioned for a play here when I was 20, I think. It’s become the great passion of my life,” Hill said. “To get all these people from different walks of life together in a room to experience this one thing. And that will only be true for the audience that experienced it that night. There’s something so ephemeral and special about that.”

“Leroy & Lucy” is at Steppenwolf until December 15.