If you are on the prowl for some very funny improv, follow the path that leads to Chicago’s Apollo Theatre at 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. It is there that every Friday at 10:30 pm the hilarious comedy troupe "Baby Wants Candy" takes the stage to perform a comedy musical that, as they say, "Will be the very first and very last performance ever". The reason being is that the audience gets to choose the topic for each show. After a brief introduction the audience is called upon to shout out a musical that has never been done before. For example past performances included "Barack Obama’s Baby Mama Drama the Musical", "My Cat Has Aids the Musical" and "Nobody Puts Baby Jesus in the Corner the Musical", "How Captain Morgan Saved Christmas the Musical" and "It’s 1986 and Things are Going to be Different the Musical"
The show, in particular, that I attended featured "Harry Potter and His 12-Inch Wand". Well, I’m sure you can guess by the title where that show went. With songs ranging from on-the-spot big chorus numbers to less harmonious, more refined numbers, the ensemble injects humorous lyrics into melody created in part by the live band that is also improvising as they go. A story is cleverly formed by borrowing subject matter from the title complete with its own climactic ending, all the while cast members bursting into song at any given moment. Though off-key vocals often fill the air due to the spontaneous nature of the production, the talented ensemble makes this improv show work successfully with use of their quick wit and physical comedy, taking it a step above other comedy improvisations.
The Chicago ensemble is loaded with an all-star lineup that includes two-time "Jeopardy" contender and Second City touring member Joey Bland, and Erica Elam, who has also performed with Second City, as well as Annoyance, and The Comedy Shrine.
Best of all, each show is completely different from the last making "Baby Wants Candy" a show that can be enjoyed again and again.
For more information or show tickets visit wwwbabywantscandy.com or call 773-935-6100.
