Despite spending more time drunk than sober, Steven McAlister has managed to graduate from college, create an extremely successful theater group, get married, and thrive in a dream job at one of the most prestigious regional theaters in the United States. Sure, it’s gratifying to go to an AA meeting where they reward you with a white chip just for showing up, but does he really have a problem? Even with an ailing father, a marriage on the rocks, and his professional life careening out of control, Steven has a carefully constructed balancing act that keeps it all together – until it all falls apart. Told with humor, honesty, and compassion, The White Chip is about living with addiction and coming alive through recovery.
The White Chip premiered at Merrimack Repertory Theatre in Lowell, Massachusetts in January 2016. Directed by Sheryl Kaller, the production featured Jeffrey Binder, Isabel Keating and Benjamin Evett. The play then premiered in New York City at 59E59 Theater in 2019. Directed by Sheryl Kaller, the production featured Joe Tapper, Finnerty Steeves and Genesis Oliver.
The White Chip premiered off-Broadway at MCC Theater in 2024, produced by Annaleigh Ashford. Directed by Sheryl Kaller, the production featured Joe Tapper, Crystal Dickinson and Jason Tam.