Written by Chicago playwright Michael Rychlewski, this quintessentially Chicago play tells the story of three middle-aged men, who were the Kings of Rush Street at its peak in the 50’s and 60’s. Now it’s 1984 and these guys are living on the fringe, trying to keep to the straight and narrow and out of trouble.
Produced by Dashnight Productions and directed by Jeff Award Winner Richard Shavzin, the world premiere of CHOPS is playing now through August 24 at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont.
There’s Vince, an ex-Rush street bartender, who’s opened his own joint, but losing money and determined not to get sold down the river by less- than-friendly thugs. His buddy Walt drops by with the young and sexy jazz aficionado, Kaki he’s just picked up to show off Vince’s ultimate jazz jukebox and ultimately bed. Walt’s recently done some time and wants to prove that he’s still got the chops. Out of the blue, literally, buddy Philly appears. This troubled old friend hasn’t been seen in nine months and there are rumors of unpaid juice loans and maybe time in the slammer. As they tell stories and dance with Kaki, everyone is on edge. The plot thickens as lies become bigger and the audience is not sure who’s telling the truth. You can actually feel the tension in the air as it crescendos.
The intimate bar setting is early 1980’s with all of the authentic décor and paraphernalia, making you feel a part of the play. The music features the best jazz numbers of Ella Fitzgerald and other greats through the jukebox. As “Walt,” Jeff Award Winner Randy Steinmeyer is outstanding as the most elusive character and the catalyst for the changing tone the drama. Four-time Jeff Award Winner Larry Neumann, Jr. as “Vince” is nitty-gritty real. You can feel his fear of going under. Danny Sullivan as “Philly” is handsome and cool, with something to hide. As “Kaki” Clare Cooney is beautiful and sexy, but what’s her secret? Director Shavzin keeps the suspense going at a fast pace until the truth is finally revealed.
It’s great to take a look back and relive the jazz of that era. CHOPS plays Thursday at 8:00 p.m. Friday at 8:00 p.m., Saturday at 8:00 p.m., and Sunday at 3:00 p.m. from July 7 through August 14 at Theater Wit, Stage 1, 1229 W. Belmont. For tickets call: 773-975-8150 or visit www.theaterwit.org.
