The world’s most influential name in live comedy, The Second City proudly presents their 90th Mainstage revue Duel Citizens. This milestone production is a fast-paced, chaotic comedy spectacle stacked with razor-sharp satire, hilarious songs, ridiculous characters and, of course, the signature improv comedy that The Second City is world famous for.

Written and performed by an all-Canadian cast and crew, this brand-new show delivers a hostile makeover to politics, pop culture, and everything in between. From full-blown national tantrums to the absurdities of daily life, come laugh with The Second City as we turn chaos into comedy.

SNAPSHOT REVIEW

This core group of performers have now been together for the past several Mainstage productions, and there cohesiveness and connectivity with each other is only getting stronger with each new show. This is by far one of their tightest and most comical to date. With so much going on the world today, both here at home, and south of the border, there’s no lack of sketch fodder to be found.

We get skits on both Trump and Trudeau, neither of which actually states names, but strong references and anecdotes make it clearly obvious. The neighbours sketch is hilarious. There’s also the typical Tim Horton’s sketch, along with some darker humour in a cemetery, some self-loving black horniness, a riff on middle-aged male gamers still living at home in their parent’s basement, and even a spin on Phanthom of the Opera.

Overall it’s another great night of comedy that’s much needed these days. Be sure to get there early and grab a drink at the bar before heading into the show, and try out the new food menu offerings as well, everything from snacks to fuller plates. Laugh on!

Duel Citizens brings together celebrated TV writer and Second City Alum Brandon Hackett as director, alongside returning ensemble members Tiyawnda, Conor Bradbury, Coko Galore, Devon Henderson, Christian Smith, and Scott Yamamura as writer/performers. Matt Keevins returns as stage manager and lighting designer, and Elise Wattman joins as music director. Etan Muskat serves as artistic director for The Second City Toronto.

Celebrating 52 years in Toronto, The Second City had been the launchpad for a multitude of Canadian comedy legends including Catherine O’Hara, Martin Short, John Candy, Colin Mochrie, Mike Myers, Eugene Levy, Dan Aykroyd, Kevin Vidal, Darryl Hinds, Bob Martin (Tony Award Winner), Gavin Crawford (CBC Because News), Chris Wilson and Stacey McGunnigle (This Hour Has 22 Minutes), Lauren Ash (NBC’s Superstore), Ann Pornel and Alan Shane Lewis (Great Canadian Baking Show) and so many more.

The Second City Mainstage Revue runs Tuesday – Thursday 8pm, Friday – Saturday at 7pm and 10pm, and Sundays at 7pm. The Second City Comedy Theatre is located at ONE YORK STREET. Tickets  start at $19.59 and can be purchased at The Second City Box Office, by phone at 416-343-0011, or online at www.secondcity.com. 

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.