The Second City e.t.c. has unveiled its latest revue, CHAOS THEORY OF EVERYTHING, offering an eclectic blend of comedy that doesn’t pigeonhole itself into a singular theme.
Returning performers Meghan Babbe, Jenelle Cheyne, Javid Iqbal, and Tim Metzler share the stage with newcomers Spencer Hodges and Max Thomas under the direction of Anthony LeBlanc.
As is characteristic of Second City revues, this production features a mix of sketches that land successfully alongside those that miss the mark.
One standout quality of CHAOS THEORY OF EVERYTHING is its incorporation of localized humor, giving the revue a distinct Chicago flavor.
An amusing interstitial sketch features Cheyne, Hodges, and Metzler recreating a nightmarish CTA train ride, showcasing the city’s unique quirks.
These brief one-joke scenes have proven to be among the most effective segments of the show.
In particular, a humorous interstitial about a “JD Gollum Vance” plays into political humor that resonates well with a liberal audience.
The comedy ensemble effectively showcases their improvisational skills throughout the performance, enhancing the overall experience.
On opening night, audience participation shone during a sketch where Babbe and Cheyne hosted a fictitious Chicago talk show on the topic of vaccines, encouraged by the audience’s suggestion.
Joining them was Hodges, playing a beleaguered production manager.
This act demonstrated how the performers can pivot and execute engaging content based on audience interaction.
Another notable sketch involved the cast detailing a fictional soap opera episode, which relied heavily on the contribution of an enthusiastic audience member.
Though not the most groundbreaking sketch, the performance effectively rallied the ensemble around the participant, enhancing the crowd’s enjoyment.
While some full-length sketches falter, several stand out, notably one featuring Babbe and Iqbal as a mother and son post-eighth grade dance.
Iqbal’s portrayal of a disillusioned young boy, influenced by male-centric media, adds a sharp edge to the humor, as he embodies the fears surrounding today’s youth.
The sketch delivers social commentary without heavy-handedness, striking a balance between satire and entertainment.
In the second act, Cheyne takes on a physically demanding sketch as Benny the Bull, who is grappling with a string of bad luck.
On the other hand, Hodges shines in a silly yet amusing sketch where she auditions for a role during a small claims court case, which is a delightful reminder of the show’s inherent absurdity.
However, not all sketches hit their intended marks.
For instance, Iqbal plays a purposely bad stand-up comedian, yet this performance ends up being less comedic than intended.
An overextended “surprise party” sketch also felt laborious and detracted from the overall pacing.
Additionally, Metzler takes on the role of “Periwinkle Brunchtime Detective,” providing one of the funnier moments with a gag at a crime scene.
Yet even here, the sketch’s conclusion becomes muddled and less impactful.
Despite its inconsistencies, CHAOS THEORY OF EVERYTHING manages to provide enough enjoyable moments to warrant a visit.
The overall lightheartedness of the revue is a delightful reprieve, inviting audiences to embrace the humorous chaos on stage.
CHAOS THEORY OF EVERYTHING is currently playing at The Second City e.t.c. with tickets starting at $39.
image source from：https://www.broadwayworld.com/chicago/article/Review-CHAOS-THEORY-OF-EVERYTHING-at-The-Second-City-Etc-20250615
