Cast change for Goodman’s ‘Rapture, Blister, Burn’

Chicago actress Jennifer Coombs is taking over the role of Catherine in the Goodman Theatre’s upcoming Chicago debut of Gina Gionfriddo’s play, “Rapture, Blister, Burn.” The actress is replacing Robin Weigert who has left the production “due to scheduling conflicts.”

In a prepared statement Coombs said: “To have this opportunity to work with director Kimberly Senior on a play about women is a dream come true. The character of Catherine is incredibly smart, self-reflective and bitingly funny. Kimberly is such a grounded director, and has created a supportive environment for us to explore this play.”

“Rapture, Blister, Burn,” which will run Jan.1 7-Feb. 22, is about two women, Catherine and Gwen, who were grad school pals, but whose lives have taken them in quite different directions in the ensuing years. It features Karen Janes Woditsch (as Gwen), Mark L. Montgomery (Don), Cassidy Slaughter-Mason (Avery), and Mary Ann Thebus (Alice).

Coombs previously appeared at the Goodman in “The Hairy Ape” as part of its Global Exploration: Eugene O’Neill in the 21^st Century Festival. Other Chicago credits include “Ski Dubai” (Steppenwolf Garage); “The Threepenny Opera” (The Hypocrites); “Because They Have No Words” (Piven Theatre Workshop and “One for the Road/Catastrophe” and “Power” (Remy Bumppo Theatre Company). Regional credits include “All the Happy People” (Edinburgh Fringe Festival); “Proof” and “How I Learned to Drive” (Oregon Contemporary Theater); “House of Yes” and “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” (Actors Cabaret of Eugene) and “Twelfth Night” (Willamette Repertory Theatre).

Tickets ($25-$81, subject to change) are on sale at GoodmanTheatre.org/Rapture, or by phone at (312) 443-3800.