JOHN STARRS (1932-2025)
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John Starrs – legendary Chicago poet, writer, and teacher and widely known as the "godfather" of the city's fringe theater scene – has passed away at the age of 93.
John’s work blended storytelling, spoken-word poetry, and unique, often humorous observations about Chicago and the neighborhood of Rogers Park. He frequently collaborated with guest artists and musicians, and his performances were a celebrated and popular fixture of the long-running Rhinoceros Theater Festival. Rhino Fest, as it is lovingly called, is an ambitious showcase of experimental theater and performance, started by the Curious Theatre Branch, and now co-produced by Curious Theatre and Prop Thtr. John held the unique distinction of having performed in every festival since 1988. John was a fixture at the spoken word events throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s, hosting the weekly slam at Coffee Chicago. John was also part of a notable piece of Chicago’s off-loop theater history, performing in Magic Circle Theatre's production of THE SERVANT OF TWO MASTERS at Body Politic. Also at the Body Politic, John was part of BJ Jones’ 1983 production of THE DRESSER, with Frank Galati, Janet Carr and Joseph Sadowski, and the 1984 production of VOLUNTEERS, with Larry Brandenburg, Kevin Dunn and Joseph Sadowski. In 1976, John performed with the St. Nicholas Theatre Company in their production of A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE. One longtime friend remembers John: “I am saddened by this loss, but happy to celebrate John as a pillar of Chicago's poetry community…I recall his exquisite collection, ‘The Suburban Poems,’ and feel fortunate to have a copy of his hand-crafted book, with an initial press run of only 150. The collection includes a forever-relevant ‘Dear John’ letter introduction from David Hernandez, and 33 superb poems including ‘Elk Grove Village.’ “ |