“Henchpeople” reviewed by Frank Meccia

Recommended *** YES!! Theatre is back and opening up around us. Decided to go to a new theatre for me, I have been to small theatre before, but never one where my basement is bigger. The Jarvis Square Theatre hold 25 people at max. They have a great A/C system because even with the high humidity of this weekend it was comfortable. Also, the theatre requires you to show proof of vaccination and masks are worn at all times. So just keep a copy on your phone, it seems a lot of small theatre’s will be asking this.

HENCHPEOPLE: A World Premiere play by Ross Compton (the playwright behind Amicable). Perfect for the Superhero/Villain fan of any age! A self-obsessed supervillain is mere minutes away from unleashing their simmering vengeance upon a helpless city, and right-hand helpers Oona and Jarlath are there every step of the way. Unfortunately, something goes very, very wrong. Now these bewildered baddies must face an army of blood-thirsty foot soldiers, a formidable superhero, and their own feelings of distrust, self-worth, and burgeoning friendship in this new comedy.

It was hard to believe that it was only a cast of three. Julie Rowley plays 3 roles and does it so believable that I fell for it, Julie has been in other theatres around Chicago including Second City Comedy Central and the Promethean Theatre. Her knack at comedy seemed so easy. Oona played by Stephanie Stockwell, came across as the perfect hero, and with an extensive background with Boho Theatre, Lifeline and Porchlight she turned this 70 min production to an enjoyable evening. The third link in the story is played by Travis Shanahan, the real mastermind to all the inventions that give this production the Flash Gordan feel to this show. Even thou the seats are a little uncomfortable, the show made up for it in so many ways. Director Tony Lawry did a great job with this brand-new world production.

Jarvis Square Theatre is located at 1439 W. Jarvis, in the artsy section of East Rodgers Park, parking will take and extra 5 minutes, but should not be a problem. Otherwise, it is one block from the Jarvis stop on the El.

Ticket prices are $20 for seniors and students, general admission is $23.00.

To order tickets  www.theatreatl.org

HENCHPEOPLE is playing till August 1st. with performances as follows:

Fridays  8 p.m.

Saturdays  8 p.m.

Sundays  3 p.m.

Get out and enjoy live theatre again.

To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “Henchpeople”.