Open Space Arts Presents the American Premiere of the London Pub-Theatre Hit GANGSTA BABY in September-October 2025

Open Space Arts is thrilled to co-produce the American premiere of GANGSTA BABY, a powerful, autobiographical drama from London’s Hope Theatre. Directed by the renowned UK artist Rikki Beadle-Blair (MBE), GANGSTA BABY will run at Open Space Arts from September 19 to October 5, 2025, in our intimate 25-seat theatre at 1411 W. Wilson Avenue.

Written and performed by Cameron Raasdal-Munro, GANGSTA BABY tells the gripping story of Junior, a young gay sex worker living in the working-class city of Hastings, UK, and his complex relationship with his homophobic gangster father. The play explores urgent and often overlooked issues such as sex work, addiction, classism, and internalized homophobia, all through the lens of queer identity and masculinity.

After a successful run at London’s Hope Theatre, GANGSTA BABY won numerous accolades, including "Fringe Show of the Year" and "Best Male Performer of the Year" for Raasdal-Munro’s powerful portrayal of Junior. Critics have praised the play for its raw honesty and its unflinching exploration of life on the margins, particularly for queer individuals in working-class environments.

This American premiere, featuring a Chicago-based cast alongside Raasdal-Munro, will bring this hard-hitting, socially important piece of theatre to a new audience. Co-producer G. Riley Mills said, “Chicago’s stages have long been home to fearless storytelling, making it the ideal home for a narrative that pushes boundaries and challenges societal norms. We’re honored to bring GANGSTA BABY to a city that values bravery and creativity.”

Tickets go on sale July 7 and are $30 general admission, or $25 for students and seniors. 

Don’t miss this remarkable production in one of Chicago’s most unique venues.