Second City – 0% Down, 100% Screwed

reviewed by Paula Citron
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0% Down, 100% Screwed
Second City
Written and performed by Marty Adams, Kerry Griffin, Darryl Hinds, Caitlin Howden, Reid Janisse and Leslie Seiler
Directed by Melody A. Johnson
At Second City for an indefinite run
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Second City’s humour is topical, and as the title 0% Down, 100% Screwed indicates, “It’s the economy, stupid!” that is being satirized. As with all Second City shows, the skits are uneven, but taking on the economy has to be the company’s biggest challenge to date.

From a chain gang to a puppet show, from Obama and Hillary Clinton meeting Harper and his wife; from a taxi driver from Gaza to Marco Polo; from a Via Rail dinner to a 50/50 charity ticket; from the Mac/PC commercial to a Walmart greeter – nothing is too sacred for an SS drubbing.

The six talented actors switch characters with blinding speed while director Melody A. Johnson has ensured a zesty pace with choreographed transitions. Music maven Matthew Reid is fast on the uptake.

Second City is celebrating its 35th anniversary, and deserves a big thank you for years of making us laugh at ourselves.

0% Down, 100% Screwed continues at Second City for an indefinite run.