Second City e.t.c.’s 48th revue, Best Kept Secret: Tell Everyone, may start a bit slow, but it eventually picks up and delivers a rewarding experience. The six-person cast, directed by Carisa Barreca, showcases their comedic talents as the show progresses.
The show incorporates old-timey showbiz elements like magic shows and vaudeville canes to explore themes of deception and secrets. Throughout the performance, the cast dives into various scenarios involving relationships, political commentary, and gender identity. While the political commentary adds a sharp edge to the show, it’s the relationship-based sketches that truly shine and resonate with the audience.
Each cast member brings something unique to the table, from Jenelle Cheyne’s hilarious portrayal of a Canadian immigration officer to Claudia Martinez’s genderfluid performance in a mini-musical melodrama. Other highlights include Tim Metzler as a creepy ventriloquist’s dummy, Meghan Babbe as a lusty chanteuse, Javid Iqbal as a dad trying to connect with his son through DJing, and Terrence Carey as a pseudo-beatnik poet.
Overall, Best Kept Secret: Tell Everyone is a well-crafted evening that plays to the ensemble’s strengths and offers a mix of humor, social commentary, and heartfelt moments. It’s a show that keeps the audience engaged and entertained throughout.
In addition to Second City e.t.c.’s revue, there are several other noteworthy theater performances happening in Chicago. From the solid and satisfying production of Little Shop of Horrors at Music Theater Works to the thought-provoking examination of the aftermath of Ferguson in Dael Orlandersmith’s Until the Flood, there is a wide range of shows to choose from.
Whether you’re a fan of absurdist classics like Rhinoceros or musicals like City Lit’s Seven Guitars, the Chicago theater scene offers something for everyone. Each production brings its own unique perspective and storytelling style, enriching the cultural landscape of the city.
As a theater and dance editor at the Chicago Reader, Kerry Reid provides valuable insights into the local arts scene and recommends a diverse range of performances for readers to explore. Her knowledge and expertise in the field contribute to the vibrant theater community in Chicago, showcasing the talent and creativity of artists and performers alike.
