Quick! Before We’re Cancelled!!!: A Hilarious Dive into Current Events
The Practical Theatre Company is back with its annual comedy revue, Quick! Before We’re Cancelled!!!, a show that promises to tickle your funny bone while tackling the absurdities of modern life. This year, the revue features an eclectic mix of historical figures and contemporary issues, including Abigail Adams, the pope, and even Tarzan.
A Unique Blend of Comedy and Commentary
At the heart of the show is a clever exploration of politics and the quirks of being a conscientious citizen today. Whether you’re baffled by the antics of politicians or simply looking for a night of laughter with a drink in hand, this revue has something for everyone. The show is staged at Studio5, an ideal venue that enhances the experience of comedy and music.
The Creative Minds Behind the Laughter
The trio of Victoria Zielinski, Paul Barrosse, and Dana Olsen are the driving forces behind the show. Friends since their days at Northwestern University in the late 1970s and early 1980s, they not only write and perform in every skit but also handle costumes and props. Their collaborative spirit shines through as they brainstorm ideas throughout the year, with serious development kicking off in June.
Barrosse shared insights into their creative process, highlighting a skit where Abigail Adams critiques the Constitution, poking fun at its flaws. “Once we had those two things, I really felt OK,” he remarked, emphasizing the balance between humor and serious commentary.
Navigating the Fine Line Between Humor and Preaching
Zielinski added another layer to their mission: “We can no longer rely on civic virtue as a moral compass. It’s all broken.” This sentiment resonates throughout the show, as they tackle serious issues like immigration while ensuring the audience remains entertained. Olsen emphasized their goal of avoiding preachiness, aiming instead for a cathartic experience that includes light-hearted sketches about relationships and everyday life.
A Whimsical Cast of Characters
Each year, the revue features a skit inspired by The Carol Burnett Show, complete with outrageous costumes and wild antics. Last year’s Western theme was a hit, and this year, Barrosse reprises his role as Tarzan, having lost over 20 pounds to bring a more svelte version of the character to life. Zielinski recalls how Barrosse’s previous performance had the audience in stitches, making it a memorable highlight.
The show also includes a humorous visit with Abraham Lincoln at Walt Disney World and a couple of scenes featuring Pope Leo XIV. In one skit, the future pope is caught on video at a Chicago White Sox game, while in another, he sings “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” at Wrigley Field.
Musical Highlights and Special Guests
Adding to the revue’s charm is Paul Marinaro, a renowned jazz vocalist who joins the cast as the show announcer and performs several musical numbers. One of his standout performances is an original comedic breakup song about Elon Musk and Donald Trump. The show also features a skit where Clint Eastwood, now 95 years old, reprises his iconic role as Dirty Harry in what is humorously dubbed his 342nd film.
The Final Touches Before Opening Night
As the show approaches its debut, the team focuses on stage blocking, rehearsing with the band, and perfecting the timing of each skit to ensure a seamless performance. However, they remain flexible, ready to incorporate late-breaking current events into their sketches, including a potential piece on “Trump derangement syndrome.”
Zielinski encapsulates their mission perfectly: “We’re gonna fight back with comedy.”
Show Details
Quick! Before We’re Cancelled!!! will debut at Studio5, located at 1934 Dempster St. The revue runs for two weekends, from December 26-28 and January 1-3, with performances starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are priced between $40-$55 and can be purchased online up until one hour before showtime. Any remaining tickets will be available at the door.
This year’s revue promises to be a delightful mix of laughter and reflection, making it a must-see for anyone looking to engage with the world through the lens of humor.
