Review: 18th and Union's Feminist Sketch Comedy HAPPY HOUR Has Potential

Who am I to judge how anyone processes the political climate? Well, when it's theatre, technically, it's my job. Nonetheless, I understand why Keira McDonald and Erin Stewart put on their two-woman sketch comedy, "Happy Hour", now performing at 18th and Union as a part of their 'Oddballs and Misfits' series (along with "Oroboro", among others). These two performers set out to process their feelings on the day of the inauguration through impersonations (Kate Mullgrew, Shelley Winters); multiple scenes in doctors' offices with circumstances so ridiculous, you'd hope they'd be satirical; and a rap about Susan B. Anthony. From the clear-as-day reading from a script in the wings, to the faulty mics, to the rudimentary PowerPoint as background graphics, the collective felt (though full of heart) a little thrown-together. Some sketches out shined others, and although the production felt effortful and honest, "Happy Hour" felt a touch unpolished.

McDonald and Stewart co-wrote and star in this feminist episode of Mad TV. They set the tone immediately with a slideshow featuring images of the Obamas while the two performers play along to "My Heart Will Go On" on recorders. As their floor-length frocks sweep the floor and McDonald wails with sadness, I'm wondering where I can order a strong drink. It doesn't take long to realize that the 'happy' part of "Happy Hour" is ironic. Here lies the theme of most of the sketches in "Happy Hour": it's funny/sad because it's true.

During the show, both Stewart and McDonald give themselves opportunities to show off their impersonation skills with two maudlin monologues by Shelley Winters (McDonald) and Kate Mulgrew (Stewart). Both actresses told sordid tales of stardom and the many lovers they took in yesteryear. Both were quite proud of their conquests and didn't spare any details. McDonald and Stewart were equally fun to watch, and left me wanting "The Taming of Kate Mulgrew" to be extended into a full-length production.

About forty minutes into the show, Stewart and McDonald step out of character to announce that the next segment will be a time for each of them to share something real with the audience. Stewart shared a story about her brassy elementary school teacher who taught her a valuable lesson, and McDonald started to cry, telling the audience an adorable story about a four-year-old chanting "Martin. Luther. King." as he "nun-chucked" around the room. Whether or not these stories were rehearsed, I do not know. It was like the sketches stopped so that they could have a story slam before rapping about Susan B. Anthony.

Comedy is tragedy plus time, right? But there hasn't been any time. It wasn't so much laughing in solidarity as it was laughing through the pain. And given the title of the show, a libation would have suited nicely. With a little bit more time to marinate (and with wounds not-so-fresh), "Happy Hour" could become the comedy that audiences need. For good ideas, great impersonations, but slight lack of polish, I give "Happy Hour" 3/5 stars. Have a drink before, and go with a friend.

"Happy Hour" performs at 18th and Union through February 24th, 2017. For tickets and information, visit them online at www.18thandunion.org.

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