The holidays are magic.
But as The Second City’s “Holidays in the Heights”opening musical number reminds us, there is plenty that isn’t quite so magical about the season. The cast then spends two hours making us laugh at all the craziness that occurs during “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Husbands find themselves at Target on Christmas Eve still not sure what to buy their wives (despite not-so-subtle hints), family parties lead to sibling rivalries and drunk aunts, and parents struggle to adequately answer their children’s questions about Santa.
The show, directed by Jen Ellison, is comprised of multiple sketches performed by six hilarious cast members (as is to be expected). Neal Dandade, Alex DiGiacinto, Ariel Dumas, Eddie Mujica and Casey Whitaker were all at the top of their game, especially when they needed to improvise. Kelsey Kinney also joined the cast for the evening as a replacement, and I have to say, I hope more comedy fans get a chance to see her perform—she stole the show. Behind the scenes, The Second City Music Director Tara Trudel and The Second City Stage Manager Dan Grimm both made sure the show went off without a hitch.
If you have not been to a Second City show, this is an ideal way to introduce yourself. It’s also a great opportunity for those in the ‘burbs to see phenomenal comedy without driving into the city.Metropolis’ theater is the perfect venue, intimate enough that everyone feels like they have a great seat—although, if you don’t like to be dragged up on stage, you might not feel comfortable in the first few rows.
But audience participation is what makes this show great. During a few sketches, cast members will signal to the audience to shout out a suggestion. They then use that prompt to improvise the rest of the skit. This does not happen often during the first two acts, but just as I was hoping for more improv, the cast obliged in a shorter third act. And if you feel like going twice (which you will), you won’t see the same exact show.
Take a break from your shopping lists and cookie cutters and head out to Arlington Heights. This show is rated R and perfect for a date night, girls’ night out, or even a festive outing with your children who are home from college. Although this time of year can be magical, it’s fun to laugh at the problems that arise, too.
“Holidays in the Heights” runs through December 31 at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Tickets ($29.50–34.50) are available online, by calling 847-577-2121, or visiting the Box Office Tuesday-Saturday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. or one hour before a show. Tickets to the New Year’s Eve show ($50–60) will include a glass of champagne, party favors, a countdown and balloon drop. The theater’s annual food drive will also take place throughout the end of the year.
Photo: (L to R) Cate Freedman, Chelsea Devantez, Neal Dandade, Alex DiGiacinto, Eddie Mujica
