Johnny Galecki as Tennessee Williams in “Kowalski”

Johnny Galecki surprises audiences with his portrayal of Tennessee Williams. Galecki grasps and portrays the mix of vulnerability, humility, humor, desire, and ambition characteristic of the famous playwright. His stage presence highlights a dual nature, combining sweetness with ruthlessness, reminiscent of characters like Stanley Kowalski from “A Streetcar Named Desire.”

Though commonly associated with Blanche DuBois, Williams’ true reflection, as biographer John Lahr contends, lies in Stanley. Seeking a potential Broadway production, Galecki joins a Chicago preview of Gregg Ostrin’s “Kowalski.” This play, set for an early 2025 off-Broadway debut, explores a real-life meeting in Provincetown, Massachusetts, between Williams and a young Marlon Brando. The meeting occurred when director Elia Kazan sent Brando to Williams, hoping to secure the role of Stanley in “A Streetcar Named Desire.”

The 90-minute show is now playing along Chicago’s Magnificent Mile and offers a delightful piece of theatrical history. Jacob Moskovitz plays Brando, displaying method-acting skills honed at Stella Adler’s studio. The play imagines Brando’s audacious audition in Williams’ home, far exceeding a simple script reading.

Adding to the dynamic cast are Reece dos Santos as Pancho Rodríguez, Williams’ partner, Alison Cimmet as Margo Jones, the director who initially supported Williams’ career, and Ellie Ricker as Jo, Brando’s girlfriend. Galecki returns to acting after a hiatus post “The Big Bang Theory,” reminding audiences of the depth he can bring to a role, as remembered from performances at Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre.

Galecki shines as the complex Tennessee Williams, drawing from his diaries, media appearances, and biographies for an authentic portrayal. Ostrin’s play is filled with gossip and action, mixing humor with tension. The audience, already aware of Brando’s success in “Streetcar,” enjoys witnessing Williams grapple with the intense actor who arrives on his doorstep.

A notable area for improvement is Jo’s character, underexplored despite Ellie Ricker’s intriguing performance. Her involvement in Brando’s plans warrants further development. Nevertheless, the show’s core lies in the interaction between Galecki and Moskovitz, capturing their characters’ essence without impersonations. This balance between surprise and familiarity captivates audiences.

“Kowalski” benefits from David Gallo’s mid-century set and Lookingglass Theatre’s unique setting, a first for a commercial production. Galecki, familiar with sitcom timing, commands the stage, revealing how Williams responds to Brando’s probing. This dynamic alone entices theatergoers.

“Kowalski” delivers a compelling performance, thoughtfully directed by Colin Hanlon, with performances running through October 25 at Lookingglass Theatre, Water Tower Water Works, 163 E. Pearson St. Tickets range from $37 to $97. For reservations, call 312-595-5600 or visit lookingglasstheatre.org.