Although Rashad has not graced the Chicago Steppenwolf stage, she was in the company's Broadway production of "August: Osage County."
"Lots of great theatre here. And as a director and as an actor, it's my experience that the Chicago artists have something else, there's something else there," Rashad said.
A sit-down interview with Steppenwolf Artistic Director Anna Shapiro was the focal point of the event with a look at Rashad's extensive performance history, including her 2004 Tony for Best Actress in a Play - a first for a black actress.
"I do love the live. I will not flinch on that one. Training and working onstage has been helpful to everything else I have done," Rashad said.
That includes TV mom Clair Huxtable. Reruns of The Cosby Show suffered a backlash as certain outlets pulled it from their schedules last year.
"Some people decided it does belong on television. And it is airing on television. And a great number of people have decided they want the privilege to have their children watching what they grew up with. A lot of people have decided it does belong," Rashad said.
Rashad is also in town for guest appearances on TV's Empire. Perfect opportunity to talk a future Steppenwolf role. Has she?
"Not yet. Now that'll put the fear of The Lord in ya!" Rashad.