Review of Ayn Rand’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” as Performed by the Conspirators Under the Direction of President Biden NO WAIT, Liz Cheney

Evan Richter and Brian Rohde; Photo by Logan Conner, Oomphotography
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With a title as unruly as it’s plot, Ayn Rand’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” as Performed by the Conspirators Under the Direction of President Biden NO WAIT, Liz Cheney (playing now at the Otherworld Theatre) is a perfect mishmash of silly jokes and pointed political commentary. Written by Sid Feldman and directed by Wm. Bullion (who is also billed as a cast member), Rand/Cheney is presented within the framework of a struggling holiday variety show that slowly advances a libertarian retelling of a holiday favorite (where the new central message is “everyone does better without help”).

Sarah Franzel, Elena Avila and Wm. Bullion; Photo by Logan Conner, Oomphotography

This production is proudly under-rehearsed and presented for just three nights which results in a very raw and frantic theatrical experience. Adding to the circus like atmosphere is the energetic cast which performs the material in clown makeup. Together they put in some truly amazing performances that includes quite a few pleasant singing voices. Especially impressive is Meaghan Morris whose very physical and over-the-top take on Uncle Billy gives off some serious Chris Farley vibes. Also hilarious are a few of the random non sequiturs, such as a baby felon who periodically runs wild on stage.

Demitri Magas; Photo by Logan Conner, Oomphotography

Other random bits here include a struggling Joe Biden, various unemployed actors trying to gain their footing and a meandering Carl Sagan. Most of these gags work although a few jokes appear a bit overdone, especially those making fun of our current political plight. But the fast pace nature of this production easily smooths over any rough spots as it entertains for almost the entirety of its eighty-minute production. If you are looking for a heart-warming Christmas fare then maybe check out something like A Christmas Carol at the Goodman. But if you want to laugh so hard you spill your drink on your lap, I recommend you hurry to the Otherworld Theatre. Noel Schecter

Zach Foley and Sam Erwin; Photo by Logan Conner, Oomphotography

Ayn Rand’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” as Performed by the Conspirators Under the Direction of President Biden NO WAIT, Liz Cheney is highly recommended and performed at the Otherworld Theatre (3914 North Clark). Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the door or at conspirewithus.org. Performances are at 7 PM on December 20, 21 and 22. For more reviews, check out theaterinchicago.com.

Sarah Franzel, Meaghan Morris, Brian Rohde, Evan Richter and Zach Foley; Photo by Logan Conner, Oomphotography

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