Set It Off Gets Live Theater Adaptation
The heist classic "Set It Off" hits Arie Crown Theater in Chicago on April 11 with 3pm & 8pm shows, reimagined as a live adaptation by Je'Caryous Johnson. The production transforms the iconic 1996 film into a stage experience — part of growing trend of movie-to-stage adaptations targeting urban audiences.
The original 1996 film, "Set It Off," was a cultural touchstone directed by F. Gary Gray, who also directed *Friday*. It starred Jada Pinkett, Queen Latifah, Vivica A. Fox, and Kimberly Elise as four close friends in Los Angeles who, pushed by systemic injustice and personal desperation, decide to rob banks. The movie was a box office success, grossing over $41 million on a $9 million budget, and was lauded for its powerful performances and for centering the experiences of African American women in the crime-action genre. This stage adaptation is helmed by Je'Caryous Johnson, a prolific playwright, producer, and director known for creating and touring stage plays that resonate with urban audiences. He has a history of adapting popular films for the theater, including "Two Can Play That Game" and "New Jack City." This production marks a continued collaboration with Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures to bring iconic black films to a live audience. The 2026 national tour features a new cast taking on the iconic roles. Felicia "Snoop" Pearson, known for her role on HBO's *The Wire*, will star as the impulsive Cleo. The cast also includes "American Idol" alumna LaToya London as Stoney, Shayla Soraya as Frankie, and Nikki Lashae as Tisean (T.T.). This isn't the first time Johnson has brought "Set It Off" to the stage. A previous touring production of the play in 2018 starred rapper Da Brat as Cleo, alongside LeToya Luckett, Demetria McKinney, and Kyla Pratt. The play's return by popular demand signals a continued audience for these live-action remakes of beloved films.
