'Covenant' at Goodman Theatre features all Chicago cast, written by South Sider

CHICAGO (WLS) -- "Covenant" is a haunting new production at the Goodman Theatre, and the VIP opening night festivities are set for Monday night near the ABC7 Chicago studio.

Malkia Stampley is the rising star director of this southern Gothic thriller with an all Chicago cast, and said it's a powerful event you won't want to miss.

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In the show, a musician returns to his hometown in Georgia after a mysterious detour.

Suddenly, he has a soaring, but scary, talent. His presence in the town starts to trigger certain events.

"There's a question of whether he sold his soul to the devil," Stampley said.

The tale is from award-winning playwright York Walker, from the South Side.

He was inspired by the myth of blues legend Robert Johnson.

Stampley is the vibrant actress turned director.

"Covenant" is a passion project.

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"I love that it's centered on an African American family in the South. I love that it's all the way through this Black story that a Chicago native writer has written, and it's just a good way to celebrate these stories we don't get to see on stage very often," Stampley said.

The Milwaukee native was honored by a nationwide network of women in theater. Stampley is designated as a BOLD artistic producer.

"The Goodman is my artistic home; it's where I've really cut my teeth as a producer, as a fellow Chicago artist within this community," Stampley said.

Stampley has made the transition from acting to producing and directing.

"I loved acting; it was my gateway into theater. I've done it since I was a kid for most of my career," Stampley said. "When I realized, I don't have to be onstage to tell a story, I can be a part of the big puzzle, it was life changing."

Stampley is married to actor Chiké Johnson, and they have three children.

He starred in "Hymn" at Chicago Shakespeare last year.

"Even the heartbreak or the celebrations, or what we get passionate or intense about, I can rely on him to carry my woes and celebrations as an artist," Stampley said.

She said Chicagoans should see "Covenant" because "it's a homegrown piece."

"It is filled with a lot of love; we are putting are blood, sweat and tears in it, and it's for everybody," Stampley said. "If you like a little thrill, if you like a little scare, if you just like really good storytelling, there's a seat for you."

"Covenant" plays at the Goodman through May 31.