Brilliantly scathing revues based on today's headlines, developed and performed by truly talented and versatile actors—that's what Second City is all about. To this end, "Disposable Nation" will not disappoint. In fact it excels beyond the audience's expectations, providing gut-splitting comedy reminiscent of TV's "Saturday Night Live" during its golden era.
How director Jim Carlson is able to consistently assemble such a talented cast of improvisational actors in revue after revue is a feat in itself. Keeping the material fresh and timely is yet another of his talents, and the current show is nothing if not, well, current.
Whether it's an elderly teacher complaining bitterly about to what lengths we've gone to be politically correct in our schools, an Iraqi parody of the popular television show, a very "Extreme Makeover" or a ladies' scrapbooking session that turns into a suicide hotline experience, the ideas are fresh, funny and free-flowing. One hilarious skit about our nation's inane Congressional arguments can only be compared to Abbot and Costello's classic radio sketch, "Who's on First?" A wonderfully irreverent look at a gay wedding becomes even more hilarious when the cast suddenly thrusts an unsuspecting audience member into the proceedings.
While the entire ensemble of actors is strong and multitalented, the superb Andy St. Clair often stands out from the rest of the group. His recurring performance as a testosterone-infused school athletic coach brings down the house. The talented actor skillfully drags several audience members into these sketches, even bringing one of them onto the stage to be humiliated. The scene segues seamlessly into another clever sketch about hypnosis that features the entire cast.
Second City's wait staff continually scurries to bring patrons their choice of drinks and munchies before, during and after the show. While this constant motion can be a bit distracting, you're never wanting for something to sip or nibble on while enjoying this delightfully "adult" fare for which Chicago has become so famous.
Playing at the Second City ETC; 1616 N. Wells St.; (312) 664-4032; $18-$24. In an open run; 8 p.m. Thursday; 8 p.m. & 11 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 7 p.m. Sunday.
