Review: THE SECOND CITY: FREE SPEECH! (WHILE SUPPLIES LAST) Is A Resounding Hoot

THE SECOND CITY, Chicago's legendary sketch and improv comedy theater, is on tour with FREE SPEECH! (WHILE SUPPLIES LAST) ~ and the cast is a blast!

In what is featured as an "irreverent look at America's electoral insanity" the hilarious and highly talented ensemble takes no prisoners.

It's no holds barred when Donald Trump's relationship with his daughter is irreverently poked or the use of a toothbrush is topical or God is fed up with his job and his creation or when TV news itself is lampooned. The concept of an "artisanal firearms boutique" is perhaps one of the most imaginative segments, making quite the satirical case about gun control.

Everyone, from the candidates to privileged white guys are skewered, and, as if peering through a mirror, the reflection we see is that of ourselves and our society. Or, as Pogo notably proclaimed, "we have met the enemy and he is us."

The great thing is that with revelation in this two-act series of skits comes laughter ~ good, self-effacing laughter. And how medicinal that feels in these days of unparalleled political turmoil.

Directed with clear definition and economy by Ryan Archibald, five very distinctive personalities take the stage to play off each other, toy with the audience, and unfold their brilliant improvisational imaginations. What a team they make ~ Emily Fightmaster, Carley Moseley, Jeffrey Murdoch, Scott Nelson, Chucho Perez, and Julia Weiss. Backing them up is the noteworthy music director, Mary Mahoney.

The First Amendment is a big winner in this show. Tying for the honors, though, is the audience for whom the fix is definitely welcome!

FREE SPEECH's national tour continues through the end of the year. A must-see!

Photo credit to THE SECOND CITY

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