Chris Vallillo’s Musical Journey Brings ‘Forgottonia’ to Steppenwolf Theatre

Chris Vallillo, a seasoned musician, will perform at Steppenwolf Theatre’s 1700 Theater. This intimate 80-seat venue provides the perfect setting for his show titled Forgottonia. Accompanying him are talented musicians Don Stiernberg on mandolin and Marc Edelstein on bass. The performance will feature powerful black-and-white photos by Tim Schroll.

Vallillo describes the show as a blend of Bruce Springsteen and the Prairie Home Companion. He shared these thoughts over the phone while traveling between show locations. Raised in Hammond, Indiana, Vallillo’s life has always been on the move due to his father’s civil engineering job. His love for music began early in New Castle, Pennsylvania. Inspired by the chance to meet new people, he taught himself guitar in sixth grade with his parents’ support.

While studying archaeology at Beloit College, Vallillo realized his greater passion for music. He wanted to combine music with storytelling, influenced by his academic background. His guitar skills are widely praised, with Arthur Wood from FolkWax magazine describing his playing as ‘a true aural delight’.

Over his career, Vallillo has created significant works. His 2007 album, Abraham Lincoln in Song, received endorsement from the Lincoln Bicentennial Commission. The 2015 album Oh Freedom! Songs of the Civil Rights Movement highlights the power of music in the civil rights movement.

Freedom songs provided inspiration and courage, uniting people against the threat of violence.

Forgottonia is the result of Vallillo’s creativity, seeded during an archaeological trip in 1976. That journey led him to discover Forgottonia, an imagined nation formed in the 1960s by residents of 16 Illinois counties. Frustrated by government neglect, they planned to secede, declare war, then surrender and request aid. Their political theater was successful, attracting attention and resources to the region.

Vallillo explored these communities and chronicled their stories through music. This resulted in an album celebrated for its lively tunes and vivid storytelling. Performances have been well-received across Illinois, with many describing it as a multimedia love letter.

Finally bringing Forgottonia to a Chicago audience, Vallillo expresses enthusiasm and confidence about the urban reception. His belief in the evolving nature of folk music inspires him, as he asserts that it reflects the lives and struggles of everyday people.

If you plan to attend, the Forgottonia show will run as part of the LookOut Series at Steppenwolf’s 1700 Theater on August 8 at 7:30 p.m. and August 9 at 3 p.m. For tickets or more information, visit www.steppenwolf.org.