Bingo hits Chi-town BIG!!

Think back to the days when Bingo ruled. Every church and temple had an evening of Bingo (and a chance to win some money) and many of our mothers and or sisters would not miss the chance to win some of those dollars. Right now, it appears that the trend may be coming back. At least when it comes to theater.  Steppenwolf will be doing “Grand Concourse” (which I will review next week), a story about the game, and Redtwist is now doing it’s “Good People” and along comes a new, interactive show”We Gotta Bingo” at a new venue, Chicago Theater Works on Belmont.

I spoke with the creator, Bill Collins, the other day about the show and the venue. People who are familiar with “Tony and Tina’s Wedding” understand the premise of “interactive theater” and as I recall, from my many times of viewing that show, audiences truly enjoyed the experience. I guess not knowing who is in the show and who is not is part of the fun. Growing up in a Catholic world, Collins found comedy in the characters that were part of his life, his schooling and his neighborhood.

The show takes place in what appears to be a German Beer Hall that the church has rented out for a fund raiser. Two churches are merging. One group is of Italian heritage, the other, Irish, so we already know there will be some interesting attitudes. These are rival parishes that are about to become one. All thanks to the guests and the Bingo game we are about to play.

The audience will experience the games of bingo, an Italian dinner, drinks, dancing, music and lots of good natured fun. Get ready Chicago to enter the new Chicago Theater Works at 1113 West Belmont with previews starting later this month. The name of your Bingo parlor is “Der Brew-Ha-Ha and if you enjoyed “Tony and Tina”, I have a feeling that this will be a delight for you as well.

I will be reviewing it and will fill you in. For immediate info visit www.wegottabingo.com or call 312-391-0404