An ambitious comedic project: to update Camus using the platform of the 2004 presidential debates, where the great existential question that the nominees consider is the proper manner by which to murder the moderator Jim Lehrer. The show is, if nothing else, at times very funny, and when it transcends sketch comedy, there are moments that border on revelation between laughs. “It’s hard work to get a great moment on the stage,” Bush despairs as he tries over and over to kill Lehrer in the right way, and it’s undeniable that the moments of intersection between Camus and the show’s setting sometimes work and sometimes feel forced. However, the strongest theme of the play, the theatrical nature of political debate and the performative demands of those who would take part, holds the show together. Impressive acting across the board, with a particularly dynamic Guy Massey who moves beyond Bushisms and funny faces to portray a George W. Bush who, increasingly maniacally, tries to fulfill an existential duty he doesn’t understand and (obviously) cant articulate. (Monica Westin)
At the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division, (773)287-1500. This production is now closed.
Buggin’ Out: A Review of Bug at Steppenwolf Theatre The audience is the fly on the wall of a dingy Oklahoma hotel room where Agnes White is taking refuge from her recently released, abusive ex-husband Jerry.
Not Without A Fight: A Review of "Relentless" at TimeLine Theatre Though the characters in "Relentless" are educated and well-to-do, they are far from reserved in world view—their rage seethes, hidden only by the comfort of their surroundings and the decorum of their lives.
What’s In a Name? A Review of The Great Khan at Redtwist Theatre Michael Gene Sullivan’s new play is a lively reminder that those who came before are not just names to memorize in grade school. Their legacies, infamous or not, follow us in ways seen and unseen.
