Superior Donuts, a new play by Tracy Letts (August: Osage Country), tells the story of 21-year-old Franco and his friendship with his older boss, Arthur. Set in one of Chicago’s most diverse neighborhoods, Superior Donuts explores the challenges of embracing the past and moving into the future.

Jon Michael Hill (Franco) took a moment to talk with Plogger Chris Ramirez about his role in the play and what it’s like to be an actor. Oh, and donuts.

CHRIS: What is Franco like?

JON: Franco is the most fun friend that you have. He’s the smartest, has the best sense of humor and is the most talented. He’s a writer. He knows language. And he knows how to argue really well. It’s fun to play characters like that.

CHRIS: Are you similar to Franco?

JON: He’s a little more outspoken than I am. I write, and I argue a lot with people I know well. So yeah, we do have a lot in common.

CHRIS: Why should teenagers see Superior Donuts?

JON: I think it’s interesting to see the interaction between a young person and a person with a lot of experience like Arthur. They’re kind of on the same intellectual level. Franco is able to hold his own with someone who’s been around the block. It’s good to see a young person onstage who takes himself seriously, who cares about something other than himself. You can see a lot of your own culture as a young person reflected back at you in Franco

CHRIS: Do you think that Franco is an accurate representation of a young person?

JON: I never feel like any of his moments are untrue. I think his hopes and dreams are similar to those of kids our age. He’s got this unjaded edge to him. And he’s well informed.

CHRIS: What advice do you have for young actors?

JON: Work at it! Really investigate. Hone your skills. Ask questions. Be an artist. Be fearless. It’s going to be hard, but it’s worth it if it’s what you want to do.

CHRIS: What is your favorite kind of donut?

JON: Just give me a minute. That’s a hard one. [He thinks.] It’s actually maple, glazed maple.

CHRIS: Same here!

JON: Really?

CHRIS: Yeah.

JON: It’s just so good! What can you say?

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