Depraved New World
Written and Performed by
Chelsea Devantez
John Hartman
Mike Kosinski
Tawny Newsome
Emily Walker
Steve Waltien
Directed by Mick Napier
Music director Jesse Case
At The Second City, Chicago
The 102nd Revue at The Second City continues their tradition of polished biting comedy
Based on the premise: “Ever wonder what people are really thinking,?” the cast of skilled comic Equity performers have designed a fast-paced, laugh-a-minute comedy revue that easily grabs us from the start and keeps us belly laughing through. Chelsea Devantez, John Hartman, Mike Kosinski, Tawny Newsome, Emily Walker and Steve Waltien use everything they have, their vocal chops, their physical appearance, or their cute smiles including their ability to play animals to garner laughs.
Filled with pop culture references and geared to the 20-30something crowd yet still appealing to the loyal Second City patrons, the creative powers of this generation of comic players is so slick and witty that the laughs become real and heartfelt. Starting with the adventurous journey that takes us on a hilarious ride to experience what’s happening behind the eyes of the beholder, this laugh fest has a universal appeal.
From skits like having John Hartman (my favorite player here) play a lamb sent into a sports team locker room to sniff out any gay athletes to the fearless Emily Walker deftly playing a bird, we see the brave and fearless players doing whatever it takes to get laughs. Each of the six players had their moment to excel,
I was particularly impressed with the age-old Second City tradition of asking the audience for a theme or a place, etc. – then building a comic routine around that audience suggestion. When the audience was asked to mention something they may have left at home, an umbrella was the response and instantly the entire cast started sing a witty, rhyming song around an umbrella. That was impressive! The anticipated person plucked from the audience segment was also a hoot.
No matter how many times you go the The Second City even if it your first visit, you’ll be impressed with slick organization of both the drinks and food as well as the tight quality control and sheer theatricality of their revues. The Second City continues to one of the finest entertainment venues in Chicago. For a two hour comedy revue ticket starting at $23, their shows are a value. Go there and have some fun!
Highly Recommended
Tom Williams
For more info check the Depraved New World page attheatreinchicago.com
At The Second city main stage, 1616 N. Wells, Chicago, IL, call 312-337-3992, www.secondcity.com, tickets $23, Tuesdays thru Thursdays at 8 pm, Fridays & Saturdays at 8 & 11 pm, Sundays at 7 pm, running time is 2 hours with intermission, on a open run