MadKap Productions live up to their name in this production of Stephen Sondheim’s ridiculous musical “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” at the Skokie Theatre outside Chicago, directed by Wayne Mell.

The story ostensibly takes place in ancient Rome spoofing the absurdities of life, particularly romance and sex then and now. Using broad humor, slapstick shtick and endless innuendo this is very much like an extended skit, with music, that might have been performed at a Catskill’s resort.

Listen to this entire podcast review by Reno Lovison.

Tragic, hilarious, loud, energetic, fun and heartwarming, The Color Purple on stage at Goodman Theatre in Chicago is nearly three hours of nonstop entertainment featuring an outrageously talented cast featuring Brittney Mack as Celie directed by Lili-Anne Brown with choreography by Breon Arzell.

Tom & Eliza is a fairly brilliant example of absurdist theater written by Celine Song, expertly directed by Aileen Wen McGroddy and beautifully performed by Clifton Frei as Tom and Seoyoung Park as Eliza.

Reminiscent of Ionesco and Albee, Tom & Eliza focuses on ideas of existentialism, exploring the psychology of aging, marriage and sexual relationships with an attitude of absurd surrealism.

Tom & Eliza at Tuta Theatre Chicago is a challenging and thought-provoking presentation that may not appeal to a wide audience but the entire production is an example of elegant stage craft achieved through the effort of the entire crew and company that will be appreciated by those willing to take a risk to enjoy something a little out of the ordinary.