New revue a suburban success

From wacky political scenarios to helicopter parents to awkward advances made through text messages.

It's all up for grabs in The Second City show, "One Nation Under Blog," playing through Jan. 19 at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights.

The sketch comedy revue includes a collection of some of the best of Second City from its nearly 50 years in Chicago, with updated material gleaned from today's headlines as well as the world of entertainment and media.

"That's what I love about this show," said one of the six ensemble members, Brendan Dowling of Chicago. "There aren't any sacred dogs you can't attack."

Dowling appears in the show after performing with three other Second City company members on board one of the Norwegian Cruise Lines.

Along with Dowling, ensemble members include Colleen Doyle, Jet Eveleth, Homer Marrs, Beth Melewski and Steve Waltien, all of Chicago.

Director Anne Libera, a 20-year veteran with Second City, says the show works on the strength of these talented performers.

"Beyond the content, it's a really talented group of improvisers and performers," Libera says. "They're funny and smart, which makes for a terrific show."

She adds that the show has not yet played in its resident theater in Chicago, which consequently amounts to a rare opportunity for suburban audiences to see this new touring production.

Second City has been a staple at Metropolis since the Northwest suburban venue opened in 2000, and local audiences eagerly await its new revues.

Even before "One Nation" opened last weekend, three shows had sold out for its first few dates, but good seats remain available for the back end of the run, Metropolis officials say.

Jim Jarvis, Metropolis communications director, says tickets started selling as soon as Second City's Dysfunctional Holiday Revue closed up.

"That was a huge success for us this year," Jarvis says. "I think people are just responding to that kind of irreverent humor."

Metropolis officials add that the humor does include mature language and themes, and consequently they suggest a rating of "R" for its content.

If you go

What: The Second City's "One Nation Under Blog," sketch comedy revue

When: 8 p.m. Fridays and 7 and 10 p.m. Saturdays, through Jan. 19

Where: Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St. in Arlington Heights

Cost: $25

Call: (847) 577-2121 or visit metropolisarts.com