The Neo-Futurist production" Too Much Light Make the Baby Go Blind" is like the fountain of youth. Nearly 20 years old and counting, the Chicago theatre institution shows no signs of age, thanks in no small part to the company's commitment to creating innovative material.
Billed as "30 plays in 60 minutes," the production kicks off by presenting the audience with a list of play titles. The night unfolds as viewers shout out which two-minute play they want to see in what order.
Although the ensemble varies, Neo-Futurist founder Greg Allen remains the anchor and center of the show. With years of experience working on "Too Much Light" under his belt, Allen still has the wonder and excitement of a newbie. Fellow veterans Heather Riordan and John Pierson as well as younger members Jonathan Mastro, Sharon Greene, Dean Evans and Jessica Anne back him perfectly.
While many consider Neo-Futurists a comedy troupe, the actors are adept at taking on any tone or subject matter. Many of the plays are hilarious, often darkly so, such as the chattering internal voices in "Fame" that explain that the easiest way to become famous is going on a shooting spree; or there's the self-explanatory "International Response of the Crisis in Darfur, as Performed by Hand Puppets." However, we also get heartbreaking stories like "How To Remain Friends With A Box" about carrying on a relationship with a dead friend by keeping that friend's possessions.
After every show, the Neo-Futurists roll a die to determine how many plays to cut from one performance to the next; if they roll a six, for example, the troupe excises six plays and adds six new ones in their place. Every weekend brings a new riff on the old show, which is all the more reason to take a look as often as you can.
"Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind" is an open run at Neo-Futurarium. 11:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 7 p.m. Sunday. Tickets cost $8-$13.
