What describes the chicago style of acting, demonstrated by actors gary sinese, joan allen, and john malkovich, among others from the steppenwolf theatre company?

They are intensely realistic

Explanation:

In the Chicago style of acting, performers act vividly on stage. They may represent quotidienne things but they exercise strength in their characterizations so the public end up living them as they were part of the plot.  

satin. 

"very shiny satin may look great in the fabric store or in the sewing room, but once onstage it can look fake and cheap as it reflects the light from the fixtures."