If you haven't recently treated yourself to an evening at The Second City, you're missing a truly Chicago—and truly topical—experience. This latest show, the improv troupe's 93rd revue, features a series of short sketches that concentrate on the lies we tell each other.
The show opens innocently enough with a father/daughter talk about the Tooth Fairy, Santa Claus and other childhood myths, but swells to take on topics (ahem, lies) of a more national and political nature.
President George W. Bush, Donald Rumsfeld and Dick Cheney get lambasted—even Oprah Winfrey merits her own sketch wherein her celebrity powers are hilariously exaggerated. Immigration concerns, religious differences, gay marriage rights, educational funding in America and, of course, the eponymous war in Iraq become ripe targets for the show's six equally talented performers, expertly directed by Marc Warzecha.
Claudia Michelle Wallace delivers many of the night's laughs, from her portrayal of Oprah to her recurring appearance as "the video ho." She drives the audience to tears in a hilarious sketch concerning a group of al-Qaeda women relating what American activity each would engage in if forced at gunpoint.
Funnyman Ithamar Enriquez consistently entertains throughout the evening, especially as a Latino ventriloquist and as the male half of a couple pantomiming to music the truth of a sensual shower experience. He shares that moment with the always-expressive Megan Grano, who is also top notch as a grandmother trying to enlist in the Iraq War so she can be of help to her grandson. Molly Erdman, Joe Canale and Brad Morris round out the talented ensemble.
Reservations are strongly suggested since most performances sell out. Refreshments sold by a very attentive wait staff before and during the show include a variety of beer and wines, flavored vodkas, coffee and nonalcoholic drinks. Pizza, paninis, finger foods and desserts may also be purchased.
Reviewed by Centerstage!
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