Welcome, ladies and gentlemen. Please turn off cellular phones and open candy now.
(Beeping and crackling.)
Tonight’s performance of Dog & Pony Theatre Company’s As Told by the Vivian Girls is a world premiere by Devon de Mayo …
(Beep. Crackle. Beep.)
Achem. (Silence.) The show is inspired by artist Henry Darger’s illustrated story, The Realms of the Unreal, in which girls fight child slavery.
(Crackle.)
The show has no seating. Instead, like a Choose Your Own Adventure, you’ll pick characters to follow on foot throughout the performance, creating your own version of the story. It all culminates in two simultaneous endings. Some material — bloody battles, mild sexuality — may shock you.
(Riiiiiiiiip.)
Okay, that’s just nasty. Bottom line is, this show rocks.
Enjoy it, sickos.
As Told by the Vivian Girls runs through May 25; previews tonight at Theater on the Lake, 2401 North Lake Shore Drive, at Fullerton Avenue. Tickets at 773-360-7933 or online at dogandponychicago.org.