We probably should call this column our holiday gift to our readers — It’s a trifecta of sure fire, awesome shows, each unique in it’s own way, but all offering a special experience.
The first is a never miss annual production by 1812, a company that’s quintessential to the Philly theater experience — If you love comedy and satire this is your best bet! The second is the world premiere of a brand new musical by a team with deep local roots, but strong enough to challenge old New York! The third is a casual, friendly, low-cost theatrical experience only available for three nights, combining a one hour production with a drink, a simple meal and close interaction with an up and coming European based theatrical group. Enjoy them all if you can!
1812 PRODUCTIONS, PLAYS & PLAYERS THEATRE, 1714 DELANCEY STREET:
This production arrives in the thick of the 2016 Presidential race, which provides an amazing target for the brand of political comedy 1812 is known for. Sorting out the candidate wanabes from the gonnabes is the goal of “PROJECT RUN THE COUNTRY MY WAY”. We find out more about “WHY BLACK LIVES MATTER” in a reality special,“KEEPING UP WITH THE CAUCASIANS”. Worried about immigration from the Middle East? Here’s how it’s handled in the future with Han Solo, Chewbacca, Princess Leia and C3PO leading a fight for a United Galaxy. The Hillary Clinton Cabaret goes on the road following a season on “Real World: Benghazi”. 1812 also sends a special birthday greeting to the North Korean Communist Party, which is 70-years-old, but doesn’t look a day over 150. An old favorite is “Hey Bitches”, which explains the academic content of Afro-Physics. And of course, how can we forget South Philly Patsy, not to mention the word on the street from her homies and besties: Fishtown Patsy, Down the Shore Patsy and — the queen of them all — Shunk Street Patsy. To December 31. Call 215.592.9560 for additional information.
PRINCE THEATER, 1412 CHESTNUT STREET: “THE THREE MARIES” is that rarest of Philadelphia theatrical events — a world premiere musical! Ordinarily we would be cautious about directing our readers to such an unknown event. However, once we heard that Michael Ogborn is the composer and lyricist of this show we felt confident in recommending it, sight unseen, to all of our readers. Ogborn is a native of Roxborough and he calls this work “a love letter to Philadelphia.” We have been familiar with Michael’s work since “Box Office of the Damned” made its hilarious debut so many years ago. Here’s what we know about his newest show so far: It’s narrated from a Mummers Club House and is based on an historical events, but overlaid with a little bit of Pygmalion and maybe a touch of Cinderella. Expect to hear the influence of 1920s jazz, vaudeville, tin pan alley and the Mummers string band! The knockout cast features Jeff Coon, Mary Martello, Paul Nolan and several singers whose voices will shake the rafters. From December 15 to January 10. For additional information call 215.422.4580. P.S. This one might make it to Broadway and you can see it NOW!
TINY DYNAMITE @ FIRST UNITARIAN CHURCH CHAPEL, 2125 CHESTNUT STREET:
The series “A Play, a Pie, and a Pint” returns to us for only three nights this December, but what a festive return it will be! A past festival hit “BEING NORWEGIAN” is being remounted
under the direction of David O’Connor and the cast of Kevin Bergen and Kittson O’Neill in a dark comedy by David Greig. Sean, just out of prison, invites Lisa back to his flat for a drink.
Lisa says she’s Norwegian. Is Sean Norwegian too? In this dark, funny encounter, two outsiders reach out to each other across the deep fjords of the heart. What we like about this group is their ability to create a unique theater experience. Plus, who can resist the idea of serving up a play side-by-side with a light repast? This season, show goers can enjoy English Mince pie and mulled wine paired with their play. The post-show experience allows mingling with the artists and offers the audience a casual doorway to a very full theater encounter. The whole package is only $15 and includes performance, pie and beverage! 7:30PM on December 11, 12 and 13. Tickets available via the Internet @ TinyDynamite.org.
