Second City, First in Laughs
By A. Sic
Second city’s 94th revue, Between Barack and a Hard Place, has led them to reclaim their throne as King of Chicago’s comedy circuit once again. Kiss the sky they haven’t lost their politically incorrect sense of humor just yet.
Derisively witty and chalk full of satire, the six-person main stage cast, directed by Matt Hovde, takes a jab at a nation divided. Whether it’s trying to appeal to a culture that prides itself in diversity, smokers versus non-smokers, or the war on drugs, one thing is clear — terrorists have learned how to bypass our nation’s security by watching the nightly news. This bit was by far the cleverest thing I have seen in a long while.
The beauty of this revue is that there is virtually no down time. Spoofed up and ready to rip on every thing from vitamin water to Irish terrorists, no one is safe from this bombardment of droll satire.
What’s funnier than Hillary Rodham Clinton hiring a terrorist to assassinate Barack Obama? Possibly a rap battle between spouses on a really uncomfortable double date.
Even though every sketch isn’t performed with complete and utter commitment by the actors, the ideas are hilarious enough to carry the jokes through. And there are gems to be had! A whole song about being socially awkward is just that. Add ASD (attention surplus disorder) on a walking tour through the Art Institute and a “Bi-raki” (bisexuals for Barack) and you have got yourself one hell of a show.
Joe Canale is wonderful throughout. He puts himself full into every sketch and changes on a dime. Sarcastically mordant during his Art Institute tour, he stumbles upon different paintings of wheat by Monet at half-hour intervals. It’s hilarious. Equally remarkable is two-time Joseph Jefferson Award Nominee Brian Gallivan who makes putting on characters look easy as breathing. He is literary flawless in performance. Truthful and always aware of his stage partner(s); Gallivan’s improv post-show must be stayed for. And Molly Erdman is one comedy queen who knows what’s up. Never one to overindulge, she gives the jokes exactly what they need — a little punch.
Ithamar Enriquez also is a force reckon with. His physical comedy takes no prisoners.
Impudently satirical and downright witty, the tension of being stuck Between Barack and a Hard Place is now tangible. Check it out.
The Fleshtones Burlesque
By Kimberly Katz
Lakeshore Theatre
I was both intrigued and a little bit hesitant to check out The Fleshtones Burlesque featuring a classic burlesque dancer “Satan’s Angel” the Devil’s own mistress! I am against any form of stripping or performance that women have to do that demeans them just to make money. I was very pleasantly surprised however by the artistry and imaginative performances I saw in this show.
The headliner, Satan’s Angel, now 63, was a fantastic flavor of the true old burlesque with her mastery of the dangerous flaming tassels and sexy gyrations. As she danced the mostly young audience - an equal mix of gay and straight - cheered and clapped and the gratefulness for this enthusiasm and respect was clearly reflected in her face. I couldn’t help but think of the forty some years this lovely woman had been dancing for men in dark clubs, probably not hearing any real applause, and felt a great sense of relief at the genuinely warm response this open minded audience gave her.
There was no program handed out so I can’t name every performer that stood out to me but there were many exciting and passionate dances to enjoy throughout the evening. Here are some of them: Maiden Sacrifice, Ms Spanky Bottoms, Hawk, Lil Ms Bedgood and, if I heard correctly - Sebastian C-ck!
I was especially impressed by the young women dressed as men and the ability they had to evoke the masculine image of desire through erotic dance and by simulating scenes of reverse play bondage.
There was also a cool assortment of vintage erotic video accompanied by live music by The Honeybees and hostess Jessica Halem did a fine job of keeping the laughs and acts coming, so to speak.
I don’t know why a tiny piece of fabric covering a woman’s nipple makes her look less naked and more sensual but it does, and I was relieved to see that none of the dancers stripped farther than to their spangled pasties.
This is a really fun and gently erotic way to spend a date, so be sure to grab someone you want to seduce and take them to the (new) burlesque the next time you want a special thrill. For more information check out their website at www.myspace.com/fleshtonesburlesque.
burlesque Features performances by Satan's Angel, Maiden Sacrifice, Mr. Leslie and other exotic dancers, live music by the Honey Bees, vintage erotica films, raffles and auctions. Jessica Halem hosts.
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