Displaying items by tag: Hell in a Handbag Productions

I fondly recall watching the 1964 children’s television special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer each year with great wonder! Its message of hope—that you can be yourself and different from the herd—left a lasting impression. The idea that, through perseverance, you can be loved and appreciated for your unique talents is as relevant today as ever. This timeless lesson is humorously celebrated in Hell in a Handbag Production’s 25th anniversary edition of Rudolph, the Red-Hosed Reindeer.

Written by Handbag Artistic Director David Cerda, directed by Anthony Whitaker with musical direction by Chad Gearing, this year's production of Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer (An Unauthorized Musical Parody) is as significant as ever. It’s a delightful experience and provides so many much-needed laughs, particularly during these dark winter months following the election. I always enjoy David Cerda’s brilliant sense of humor whether writing, acting or both - and his fabulous camp costumes. This time, David is dressed head to stiletto-heeled toe in luscious candy apple red, parodying one of the 'Reindeer Housewives of the North Pole,' and it's fantastic.

The Handbag satire remains faithful to the storyline and characters of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, but with a distinctive Handbag twist. In this version of the Christmas classic, Rudolph, a young reindeer at the North Pole, stands out not because of a shiny, glowing red nose, but for his love of wearing red-hosed stockings. His 'unusual' clothing choice often makes him the target of teasing and exclusion by his fellow reindeer. In his quest for acceptance, Rudolph runs away and, thanks to friends he meets along the way, like Herbie the elf who wants to be a dentist and Yukon Cornelia the gold miner, our red-hosed wearing reindeer learns that it's okay to be different and to love yourself for who you are. Rudolph’s story highlights themes of acceptance, determination, and celebrating individuality. 

(left to right) Kelly Bolton, Caitlin Jackson and Peter Ruger in Hell in a Handbag Productions’ production of ‘Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer (An Unauthorized Musical Parody).’

This show features hysterical spins on all the well-known Rudolph characters, brought to life by many beloved Handbag favorites. Caitlin Jackson, whom I’ll always adore for her fantastic portrayal of Bette Midler in Handbag’s Bette: Live at the Continental Baths, plays Mrs. Claus, the oft-drunken, lonely wife of the narcissistic and sex-addicted Santa Claus - and she steals every scene she's in! Jackson’s outstanding singing voice, paired with her sharp wit, generates continuous laughter throughout this hilarious production. While Jackson excels as Mrs. Claus, Michael Hampton delivers an uproariously funny performance in Handbag’s amusing spoof of Santa Claus.

Handbag fave, Sydney Genco, who plays Elfina and also doubles as Choo Choo, the misfit square-wheeled train, is funny and adorable as always, showcasing her terrific singing voice. Genco also took on the role of make-up designer for this production, contributing to the fantastic visual elements of the show.

The show is brimming with fantastic performances, so I'll continue to heap on the praise. Longtime Hell in a Handbag member Terry McCarthy is the ideal comedic counterpart to Cerda, portraying another of the influential, spoiled reindeer wives of the North Pole. Their characters are suspicious of poor Rudolph, clad in lacy red underwear, who is quite a departure from the macho bucks that usually pull Santa's sleigh. Lori Lee shines as Yukon Cornelia, the slightly confused gold miner, in this production. A very talented comedienne and singer, and a Hell in a Handbag member, Lee is a delight in her role. With the help of the fearsome Drag Beast (well played by Mark Bartishell), Cornelia finally realizes she is gay, a hunch that every other character in the play had all along! Kelly Bolton glows as the quirky elf Herbie, who dreams of being a dentist rather than a toymaker. Bolton perfectly captures the character, eliciting plenty of laughs from the enthusiastic opening night audience.

Indeed, the praise for this show is boundless… While Peter Ruger enchants as our hero, Rudolph, with charm and flair, yet another standout performance comes from Matt Sergot, who brilliantly embodies Sam the Snowman in this delightful musical. As the show's narrator, Sergot sets up each scene with perfect whimsy, adding a charming touch to the entire production. Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer also benefits from the talents of ensemble performers Eustace Allen, Cameron Cai, Micah Mixon, TJ O’Brien, Shawn Quinlan, Michael Radford, and Whitney Willard Wilkinson, who impresses in her role as Clarice.

Special kudos also go out to costume designer Marquecia Jordan for doing a splendid job bringing Herbie, Yukon Cornelia, Sam the Snowman, and our other Rudolph favorites to life. The entire production team crushes it in this one.

Each year's production of Rudolph consistently features a great deal of updated humor. Some jokes are bawdy, but all are undeniably funny, touching, and heartfelt – and that is the magic that is Hell in a Handbag. Alongside the humor also comes valuable life lessons—in this case, the importance of being true to yourself and accepting others for doing the same.

One thing I can always count on when bringing friends to a Hell in a Handbag production, especially this Christmas-themed show, is that we'll have a great laugh, hear fun songs, enjoy a couple of drinks during the generous intermission, and leave feeling like part of the uniquely wonderful straight and LGBTQ family celebrating right here in Chicago.

If you need a laugh and to unwind during the holiday season, then be sure to attend Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer through January 5^th. And please take special note of the show's benefit weekend, from Friday, December 20th through Sunday, December 22nd. During this time, you can enjoy this fantastic camp parody holiday-themed show, knowing that the proceeds will go directly to support the food needs of Chicagoans living with AIDS.

Hell in a Handbag’s Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer and Unauthorized Musical Parody is being performed at Hoover Leppen Theatre at Center on Halsted through January 5^th. For tickets and/or more show information click HERE.  

Hell in Handbag is pleased to host a special weekend of benefit performances during its upcoming 25^th anniversary edition of Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer (An Unauthorized Musical Parody). Join the cast for a pre-show party including drinks and sweet treats, a raffle and silent auction with fabulous items to bid on Friday, December 20, Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 22, 2024 at Hoover Leppen Theatre at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. in Chicago. 

Benefit Schedule: Friday, December 20 and Saturday, December 21, the party starts at 6 pm with a 7 pm performance; Sunday, December 22, the party starts at 2 pm with a 3 pm performance.

Tickets: $60 general admission (includes sweet treats) and $125 VIP/reserved (includes reserved seating, sweet treats, drink ticket and gift bag). Are now on sale at handbagproductions.org or buytickets.at/hellinahandbagproductions/1452754. All proceeds will support Handbag's mission to serve Chicago audiences with the best camp and parody – thus ensuring the preservation and celebration of this unequivocally queer art form.

Can't make the benefit? That's okay, we'll still take your money! The Red-Hosed Reindeer is back for a full holiday run from December 13, 2024 – January 5, 2025 at Hoover Leppen Theatre at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. in Chicago. 

This beloved and twisted musical parody of the animated 1967 children's television special features all your favorite misfits and Rudolph – the cross-dressing reindeer with a penchant for red hose and heels. In trademark Handbag style, Rudolph combines parody with heartfelt moments and a splash of scathing social commentary.

Written by Artistic Director David Cerda* and directed by Anthony Whitaker, the cast includes ensemble members David Cerda*, Sydney Genco*, Caitlin Jackson*, Lori Lee*, and Terry McCarthy* with Eustace Allen, Mark Bartishell, Kelly Bolton, Cameron Cai, Michael Hampton, Micah Mixon, TJ O'Brien, Shawn Quinlan, Michael Radford, Peter Ruger, Matt Sergot and Whitney Willard Wilkinson. Understudies include: Sophia Dennis, Douglas Levin, Al Duffy, Scott Sawa* and Vito Vittore.

The production team includes Marcus Klein (Scenic Designer), Marquecia Jordan (Costume Designer), Liz Cooper (Lighting Designer), Maya Reter, (Sound Designer), Maggie O'Brien (Props Designer), Jamal Howard (Choreographer), Chad Gearig (Music Director), Syd Genco* (Make-Up Designer), Keith Ryan* (Wig Designer), Veronica Kostka* (Production Manager), Tom Daniel (Technical Director), Jackson Mikkelsen (Electrician), Michael S. Miller (Graphic Designer), Nihan Baysal (Stage Manager) and Sara Blickem (Assistant Stage Manager).

*Denotes Handbag Ensemble Member

PRODUCTION DETAILS:

Title: Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer (An Unauthorized Musical Parody)

Playwright: Artistic Director David Cerda*
Director: Anthony Whitaker
Cast (in alphabetical order): Eustace Allen (Tom Donner, Choo Choo), Mark Bartishell (Drag Beast, Ensemble), Kelly Bolton (Herbie), Cameron Cai (Spike/Ensemble), David Cerda* (Gladys Dasher), Sydney Genco* (Elfina, Choo Choo), Michael Hampton (Santa), Caitlin Jackson* (Mrs. Claus, Dolly), Lori Lee* (Yukon Cornelia), Terry McCarthy* (Connie Blitzen, TT Barbie), Micah Mixon (Jane Donner, Ensemble) TJ O'Brien (QMR, Ensemble), Shawn Quinlan (Andy Cohen), Michael Radford (Score, Half Naked Cowboy), Peter Ruger (Rudolph), Matt Sergot (Sam the Snowman) and Whitney Willard Wilkinson (Clarice).

Understudies: Sophia Dennis, Al Duffy, Douglas Levin, Scott Sawa* and Vito Vittore.

Location: Hoover Leppen Theatre at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St., Chicago

Previews: Friday, December 13 at 7:30 pm & Saturday, December 14 at 7:30 pm
Opening/Press performance: Sunday, December 15 at 7:30 pm
Regular run: Wednesday, December 18, 2024 – Sunday, January 5, 2025
Curtain Times: Thursday, Fridays and Saturday at 7:30 pm; Sundays at 3 pm. Please note: there will be added performances on Wednesday, December 18 at 7:30 pm and Monday, December 30 (Industry Night).

Tickets: $29 previews, $39 early bird general admission, $45 general admission, $50 at the door, $52 advanced VIP/reserved ticket with no drink ticket, $60 advanced VIP/reserved seating with drink ticket. Group rates $36 for 10 or more. Note: regular prices do not apply to special benefit performances December 20 – 22, 2024. Tickets for all performances are now on sale at handbagproductions.org or buytickets.at/hellinahandbagproductions/1452754.

About the Artists

David Cerda (Playwright) is a founding member and Artistic Director of Hell in a Handbag Productions, now celebrating its 23^rd year anniversary. As resident playwright, he has written many Handbag productions as well as acted in them. His play, The Drag Seed was recently produced at LaMaMa Experimental Theater and his Golden Girls Lost Episodes parody shows have been produced around the country and was featured in Golden Con: Thank you for being a Fan, the world's first fan convention dedicated to all things Golden Girls at Chicago's Navy Pier. Cerda is a proud inductee into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame and recipient of a Jeff Award for lifetime achievement for his 23 years (and counting) of work and service to the community. He lives in Chicago with his partner, Christopher.

Anthony Whitaker (Director) is happy to be returning to Hell In a Handbag after having directed the Jeff-nominated Murder Re-Wrote and a week-long run as Happy The Elf in The Golden Girls Save Christmas. They most recently appeared in Sign Of The Traveler, a self-written solo performance, Anything Goes (Porchlight Music Theatre), Cabaret (Metropolis Performing Arts Center) as Herr Schultz and La Cage Aux Folles with Ginger Minj (Music Theater Works). They are the Co-Artistic Director the New American Folk Theatre (newamericanfolktheatre.org), where they wrote and/or performed in productions of, Two from the Trailer Court, The Marvelous Land of Oz, Dark of the Moon, Trash. Hot Pink, My Life Is A Country Song and directed the Jeff-nominated The Summer of Daisy Fay, written by Ed Howard and based on a novel by Fannie Flagg. Some of their favorite Chicago performances include Whoop Dee Doo (Royal George Theatre), A Funny Thing Happened... (Porchlight), Hands on A Hardbody (Refuge Theatre) and Shockheaded Peter (Black Button Eyes). In addition to performing, Anthony teaches music and theatre in various Chicago area schools. They recently completed the short films, Shape Notes and The Caretaker, and has appeared on Chicago PD. They are represented by Big Mouth Talent.

About Hell in a Handbag Productions

Hell in a Handbag is dedicated to the preservation, exploration, and celebration of works ingrained in the realm of popular culture via theatrical productions through parody, music and homage. Handbag is a 501(c)(3) Not for Profit. For additional information, visit handbagproductions.org.

Hell in a Handbag Productions is pleased to open its 2024/25 Season with the 25^th anniversary edition of Artistic Director David Cerda's* holiday classic Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer (An Unauthorized Musical Parody), directed by Anthony Whitaker, playing December 13, 2024 – January 5, 2025 at Hoover Leppen Theatre at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. in Chicago. Tickets are now on sale at handbagproductions.org or buytickets.at/hellinahandbagproductions/1452754. 

This beloved and twisted musical parody of the animated 1967 children's television special features all your favorite misfits and Rudolph – the cross-dressing reindeer with a penchant for red hose and heels. In trademark Handbag style, Rudolph combines parody with heartfelt moments and a splash of scathing social commentary.

The cast includes ensemble members David Cerda*, Sydney Genco*, Caitlin Jackson*, Lori Lee*, and Terry McCarthy* with Eustace Allen, Mark Bartishell, Kelly Bolton, Cameron Cai, Michael Hampton, Micah Mixon, TJ O'Brien, Shawn Quinlan, Michael Radford, Peter Ruger, Matt Sergot and Whitney Willard Wilkinson. Understudies include: Sophia Dennis, Douglas Levin, Al Duffy and Vito Vittore.

The production team includes Marcus Klein (Scenic Designer), Marquecia Jordan (Costume Designer), Liz Cooper (Lighting Designer), Maya Reter, (Sound Designer), Maggie O'Brien (Props Designer), Jamal Howard (Choreographer), Chad Gearig (Music Director), Syd Genco* (Make-Up Designer), Keith Ryan* (Wig Designer), Veronica Kostka* (Production Manager), Tom Daniel (Technical Director), Jackson Mikkelsen (Electrician), Michael S. Miller (Graphic Designer), Nihan Baysal (Stage Manager) and Sara Blickem (Assistant Stage Manager).

Benefit Weekend

Handbag will host a weekend of benefit performances Friday, December 20 – Sunday, December Sunday, December 22, 2024 with a pre-show party including appetizers, plus the option of VIP reserved seating, drink tickets and a gift bag. There will also be raffles and a silent auction with fabulous items to bid on. All proceeds will support Handbag's mission to serve Chicago audiences with the best camp and parody – thus ensuring the preservation and celebration of this unequivocally queer art form.

*Denotes Handbag Ensemble Member

PRODUCTION DETAILS:

Title: Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer (An Unauthorized Musical Parody)

Playwright: Artistic Director David Cerda*
Director: Anthony Whitaker
Cast (in alphabetical order): Eustace Allen (Tom Donner, Choo Choo), Mark Bartishell (Drag Beast, Ensemble), Kelly Bolton (Herbie), Cameron Cai (Spike/Ensemble), David Cerda* (Gladys Dasher), Sydney Genco* (Elfina, Choo Choo), Michael Hampton (Santa), Caitlin Jackson* (Mrs. Claus, Dolly), Lori Lee* (Yukon Cornelia), Terry McCarthy* (Connie Blitzen, TT Barbie), Micah Mixon (Jane Donner, Ensemble) TJ O'Brien (QMR, Ensemble), Shawn Quinlan (Andy Cohen), Michael Radford (Score, Half Naked Cowboy), Peter Ruger (Rudolph), Matt Sergot (Sam the Snowman) and Whitney Willard Wilkinson (Clarice).

Understudies: Sophia Dennis, Al Duffy, Douglas Levin and Vito Vittore.

Location: Hoover Leppen Theatre at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St., Chicago

Previews: Friday, December 13 at Saturday, December 14 at 7:30 pm
Opening/Press performance: Sunday, December 15 at 7:30 pm
Regular run: Wednesday, December 18, 2024 – Sunday, January 5, 2025
Curtain Times: Thursday, Fridays and Saturday at 7:30 pm; Sundays at 3 pm. Please note: there will be added performances on Wednesday, December 18 at 7:30 pm and Monday, December 30 (Industry Night).

Special Benefit Performances: Friday, December 20 at 7 pm, Saturday, December 21 at 7 pm and Sunday, December 22 at 3 pm. Please note early curtain times on Friday and Saturday.

Tickets: $29 previews, $39 early bird general admission, $45 general admission, $50 at the door, $52 advanced VIP/reserved ticket with no drink ticket, $60 advanced VIP/reserved seating with drink ticket. Group rates $36 for 10 or more.

Benefit Performance Tickets: $60 general admission (includes appetizers) and $125 VIP/reserved (includes reserved seating, appetizers, drink ticket and gift bag).

Tickets for all performances are now on sale at handbagproductions.org or buytickets.at/hellinahandbagproductions/1452754.

About the Artists

David Cerda (Playwright) is a founding member and Artistic Director of Hell in a Handbag Productions, now celebrating its 23^rd year anniversary. As resident playwright, he has written many Handbag productions as well as acted in them. His play, The Drag Seed was recently produced at LaMaMa Experimental Theater and his Golden Girls Lost Episodes parody shows have been produced around the country and was featured in Golden Con: Thank you for being a Fan, the world's first fan convention dedicated to all things Golden Girls at Chicago's Navy Pier. Cerda is a proud inductee into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame and recipient of a Jeff Award for lifetime achievement for his 23 years (and counting) of work and service to the community. He lives in Chicago with his partner, Christopher.

Anthony Whitaker (Director) is happy to be returning to Hell In a Handbag after having directed the Jeff-nominated Murder Re-Wrote and a week-long run as Happy The Elf in The Golden Girls Save Christmas. They most recently appeared in Sign Of The Traveler, a self-written solo performance, Anything Goes (Porchlight Music Theatre), Cabaret (Metropolis Performing Arts Center) as Herr Schultz and La Cage Aux Folles with Ginger Minj (Music Theater Works). They are the Co-Artistic Director the New American Folk Theatre (newamericanfolktheatre.org), where they wrote and/or performed in productions of, Two from the Trailer Court, The Marvelous Land of Oz, Dark of the Moon, Trash. Hot Pink, My Life Is A Country Song and directed the Jeff-nominated The Summer of Daisy Fay, written by Ed Howard and based on a novel by Fannie Flagg. Some of their favorite Chicago performances include Whoop Dee Doo (Royal George Theatre), A Funny Thing Happened... (Porchlight), Hands On A Hardbody (Refuge Theatre) and Shockheaded Peter (Black Button Eyes). In addition to performing, Anthony teaches music and theatre in various Chicago area schools. They recently completed the short films, Shape Notes and The Caretaker, and has appeared on Chicago PD. They are represented by Big Mouth Talent.

About Hell in a Handbag Productions

Hell in a Handbag is dedicated to the preservation, exploration, and celebration of works ingrained in the realm of popular culture via theatrical productions through parody, music and homage. Handbag is a 501(c)(3) Not for Profit. For additional information, visit handbagproductions.org.

Hell in a Handbag Productions is thrilled to announce its 2024/25 Season, featuring a fan favorite and two world premieres. Now in its 23^rd year, Handbag continues to serve Chicago audiences with the best camp and parody – thus ensuring the preservation and celebration of this unequivocally queer art form. Season tickets are now on sale HERE.

Handbag's season kicks off this winter with the 25^th anniversary edition of Artistic Director David Cerda's* holiday classic Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer (An Unauthorized Musical Parody), directed by Anthony Whitaker. This beloved and twisted musical parody of the animated 1967 children's television special features all your favorite misfits and Rudolph – the cross-dressing reindeer with a penchant for red hose and heels. In trademark Handbag style, Rudolph combines parody with heartfelt moments and a splash of scathing social commentary.

The 2024/25 Season continues next spring with the world premiere of Artistic Director David Cerda's* Scary Town, the tale of a bunny in search of himself. 

Merry Town is the happiest town where all the animals live in harmony and wear cute outfits. Devin Bunny and his friends have always believed this because that's what they were told. Just don't ask any questions. A combination of your favorite illustrated story books featuring anthropomorphic animals, Our Town and Peyton Place, Scary Town is about growing up in a lie and living happily ever after.

Handbag's 23^rd Season concludes next summer with ANNIE COKELEY, a rootin'-tootin', brand-spankin' new dark comedy by Ensemble Member Tyler Anthony Smith*, the undomesticated homosexual responsible for POOR PEOPLE! The Parody Musical and FRANKENSTREISAND.

Directed by Stephanie Shaw, this one-act play (you're welcome) stars Smith as famous American sharpshooter Annie Oakley, who is spending her summer of 1903 on sabbatical from show business, sunbathing her days away in the Wild Wild West. That is until newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst publishes a rumor that Annie is in prison for robbing a bank to support her cocaine addiction. Here's the thing: Annie sleepshoots instead of sleepwalks, refuses to cater to her husband Frank's foot fetish and has a tendency to drink badger urine – but she doesn't do nose candy! Or does she? Unwilling to back down, pandemonium ensues as Annie, Frank, their one-eyed maid Ethel, Annie's stillborn brother Aardvark, and Belladonna, an Italian psychic, lose their minds in an attempt to clear the Oakley name.

Handbag will also continue to present readings and entertainment scattered throughout the 2024/25 season including its newly established Pride readings in June of 2025.

Comments Hell in a Handbag Artistic Director David Cerda, "We're grateful to be able to present our 23^rd season with a celebration of our past and excitement about our future. Handbag has always prided itself on the presentation of home grown new work and this season reflects all of that."

*Denotes Handbag ensemble member

Hell in a Handbag's 23^rd Season:

December 5 – 29, 2024

Rudolph The Red-Hosed Reindeer (An Unauthorized Musical Parody) – 25^th Anniversary Edition!

By Artistic Director David Cerda*

Directed by Anthony Whitaker

Featuring ensemble members David Cerda*, Sydney Genco*, Caitlin Jackson*. Additional casting to be announced.

at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago

Spring 2025

Scary Town – World Premiere!

by Artistic Director David Cerda

Featuring: ensemble members Ed Jones*, David Lipschutz* and Danne W. Taylor*. Additional casting and location to be announced.

Summer 2025
ANNIE COKELEY – World Premiere!

by Ensemble Member Tyler Anthony Smith*

Directed by Stephanie Shaw

Featuring: ensemble members Sydney Genco*, Ed Jones*, Elizabeth Lesinski* and Tyler Anthony Smith*. Additional casting and location to be announced.

About Hell in a Handbag Productions

Hell in a Handbag is dedicated to the preservation, exploration, and celebration of works ingrained in the realm of popular culture via theatrical productions through parody, music and homage. Handbag is a 501(c)(3) Not for Profit. For additional information, visit handbagproductions.org.

I look forward to every Hell and a Handbag production - because I know they’re always a great time. The company’s spot-on takes on adored characters, from those in the Golden Girls to Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer, always blend high camp humor with a warm, heartfelt touch. 

In Handbag’s latest offering, the world premiere of The Golden Girls Meet The Skooby Don’t Gang: The Mystery of The Haunted Bush, we get a brilliant mash up of beloved characters from the Golden Girls and Scooby Doo. Does it work? It absolutely does. This new comedy, penned by the immensely talented David Cerda, and directed and choreographed with flair by Frankie Leo Bennett is one of the team’s best yet.

The adventure kicks off when Rose spots a leafy, brush-covered monster—dubbed the “haunted bush”—lurking around the complex where she, Dorothy, Blanche, and Sophia live. "The haunted bush"... you can already imagine the fun to be had with that one. As the monster sightings increase and the girl’s fear escalates, Rose calls in her nephew, Fred, and his Skooby Don't Gang of crime solvers to investigate. And just like that, these two worlds collide in a side-splitting adventure, which only gets wilder when Nancy Drew joins the team. Yes, the famous girl detective, Nancy Drew! As with any Handbag production, the laughs in this comedy-mystery are as outrageous as they are plentiful. Packed with cartoonish chase scenes, snappy one-liners, well-timed slapstick and a hefty dose of innuendo-driven humor, this new production at Chopin Theatre’s mainstage is a hilariously bold comedy with all the right twists and turns.

Tyler Anthony Smith as Fred in The Golden Girls Meet The Skooby Don’t Gang: The Mystery of The Haunted Bush 

This cast is packed with all your favorite Handbag stars. The Golden Girls are back! Yay! Ed Jones shines as the naive but loveable Rose Nyland, while Grant Drager is a tour de force as flirty Blanche Devereaux, delivering one witty remark after another. David Cerda reprises his role as Dorothy Zbornak, commanding the stage with every line and Sophia Petrillo is wonderfully portrayed with grit and sass by Ryan Oates. Dorothy’s ex, Stan is riotously played by Scott Sawa, drawing several big laughs while also interacting with the audience throughout the show for Golden Girls trivia, with the winners (everyone who plays) getting to reach in and choose a prize from the mystery bag. I won a Handbag magnet! Woot!

The Skooby gang is also superbly cast, led by Tyler Anthony Smith as Fred. Smith absolutely crushes the role and delivers one funny scene after another from the moment we are greeted by his ass as Rose opens the door to welcome her nephew. Elizabeth Lesinski is delightful as Daffy while Caitlin Jackson is just perfect as Velva, the two heavily crushing on each other throughout the play. The gang is rounded out well with stellar performances from both Ben Meneses as Skooby and Josh Kemper as Skaggy, cracking voice and all. Michael S. Miller is funny in his dual roles as Miles and Rita Claxton and Danne W. Taylor gets some hearty laughs in taking on the role of Nancy Drew, especially in a love scene that no one could have seen coming. But all is possible in the Handbag multi-verse.

Handbag’s talented cast has perfected the art of camp humor, skillfully addressing and laughing at the subjects of sexuality, while also evoking compassion —all within a familiar, friendly, and entertaining environment.

While the cast is exceptional, the creative team also does a tremendous job in putting together a set that brings the audience into the center of the mystery. Marcus Klein (Scenic Design), Liz Cooper (Lighting Design) and Danny Rockett (Sound Design) team up to deliver a visual and audio experience that uniquely pulls in each and every audience member while Sydney Genco (Make-up Design), Keith Ryan (Wig design) and Madeline Felauer (Costume Design) seamlessly bring the characters to life.

(left to right) Caitlin Jackson as Velva and Elizabeth Lesinksi as Daffy in The Golden Girls Meet The Skooby Don’t Gang: The Mystery of The Haunted Bush

For those Chicagoans lucky enough to have been watching Handbag productions for the last 22 years, going to one of their shows is like being at a party with a bunch of your best old friends. With this show, it’s a place to sing the Golden Girls theme song, laugh at bawdy jokes, and just let your heart breathe free for a while, even though it seems like chaos and unfriendliness are raging all around the globe. 

I highly recommend this final production of Hell in a Handbag’s 22nd season for audiences who want to have a good hard laugh, a nice drink and a solid night of fun, hilarious entertainment.

The Golden Girls Meet The Skooby Don’t Gang: The Mystery of The Haunted Bush is being performed at Chopin Theatre through November 3rd. For tickets and/or more show information, click HERE.

I’m amazed that it’s been 18 years or so since I first saw a Hell in a Handbag production. Though it seems like yesterday, my first experience with Handbag was taking in their production of The Poseidon Adventure at the cozy and artistic Chopin Theatre in Wicker Park. It was fantastic and it was funny - fantastically funny. The musical’s parody humor, clever innuendos and dry wit reeled me in immediately. I was instantly blown away by Founding Artistic Director and performer David Cerda and the company’s cast of very talented comedic singers and dancers - and I still am. Hell in a Handbag is a dependable theater company that consistently provides hilarious, high-quality productions of camp entertainment (i.e. Golden Girls: The Lost Episodes, Christmas Dearest, Caged Dames) to the appreciative Chicago community and, like so many others, I find myself always looking forward to their next production. 

Handbag’s current production is yet another gem. Also performed at Chopin Theatre, Poor People! The Parody Musical, was brilliantly written by Tyler Anthony Smith and is wonderfully directed by Stephanie Shaw. Poor People! is a dynamite brand-new production that creator Tyler Anthony Smith describes as being a tribute to the characters in shows like Annie and Les Miserables, “that despite dire circumstances, the characters were still belting their faces off and dancing in the streets. Anybody can be happy and sing but it takes something special to be on your deathbed and still be on key.”

In the gritty, smoke-filled streets of 1979 New York City, the story’s fiery-haired protagonist, Li’l Orphan Arnie (played by Dakota Hughes), is on the run. Escaping the clutches of a lascivious, meth-cooking, authoritarian head of the orphanage, Miss A (Sydney Genco), Arnie’s fate takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a mysterious feline dancer named Whiskers (Matty Bettencourt). Whiskers leads Arnie through a supernatural manhole, hurtling them back in time to 1815 Paris, France.

In this new period of time, Arnie trades one impoverished existence for another. The search for their birth parents takes a backseat as they join forces with a ragtag gang of pickpocketing prostitutes, masterminded by the enigmatic Fagin (David Cerda).

Life takes a darker turn when Mama Moneybags (Brittney Brown), a corrupt Republican hailing from the future, sets her sights on dismantling Fagin’s crew. But fear not! A motley crew of vibrant, down-and-out characters steps up to the challenge. Among them are the consumptive Pantene (portrayed by Caitlin Jackson), the wild and feral Beggar Woman (Elizabeth Lesinski), and Nance, the quintessential hooker with an unexpectedly golden heart (brought to life by Tyler Anthony Smith). 

Besides Annie and Les Miserables, the story also parodies a bevy of characters and songs from other favorite Broadway productions including The Phantom of the Opera (“The Groomer of the Flop’ra”), Oliver, and even a lampooned version of Mary Poppins’ “Feed the Birds (Tuppence A Bag)”.   

(front center) Sydney Genco with (back, l to r) Tyler Anthony Smith,Taylor Dalton, Caitlin Jackson and Patrick O'Keefe in Hell in a Handbag Productions world premiere of POOR PEOPLE! The Parody Musical.

So, let's get to the talented cast members…

Dakota Hughes plays Li’l Orphan Arnie with a childlike charm and sass. Not just gifted with comedic talent, Hughes has a tremendous vocal range and gets to show it off throughout the play. Caitlyn Jackson, who plays Pantene and Sydney Genco as Miss A have been longtime favorites of mine in the Hell and a Handbag Productions troupe throughout the years and were both very funny and also had great song and dance numbers, which I have come to expect and enjoy! Along with Genco and Jackson, Brittany Brown also gets to impress the audience with her sensational singing voice. Another favorite Handbag veteran of mine is Elizabeth Lesinski and she absolutely crushes in her role as the Beggar Woman, drawing laughs with just about each delivered line. She also shows us that she can manage a herd or ravenous squirrels while holding a tune. 

Warm, commanding, and consistently hilarious, David Cerda shines in his role as Fagin. Cerda’s presence exudes both comedy and a nurturing energy that envelops the entire cast. Audiences eagerly anticipate his every entrance. Meanwhile, Tyler Anthony Smith remains a beloved fixture from previous Handbag productions - and absolutely steals the show! Smith brilliantly adapted many numbers from well-known Broadway shows into rousing, funny, bawdy and touching ensemble performances that keep the entire audience laughing and cheering right up until the end of this wonderful full-length production.

To complete the ensemble, Matty Bettencourt sizzles as Fosse Kitty, and special recognition is also due for the outstanding performances of Taylor Dalton as Epipen, Shane Roberie as The Groomer, Patrick O’Keefe as Twinky, and Tommy Thurston as Pretty Rich Boy. There is so much to love about this gifted ensemble. Truly, every cast member delivers an exceptional and delightful experience for the audience. 

Poor People! is a fun show filled with one hilarious moment after the next that does not mind pushing the envelope as far as it can. Yet, no matter how ribald or risque the show may be, a Hell in a Handbag production always includes a heartwarming message to the audience of support and acceptance to all people, regardless of their gender, race or age - and this show is no exception. Tyler Anthony Smith delivers the timeless message of wisdom in the uproariously funny and endearingly adapted finale, “We’re All Gonna Die Soon!” Embrace the present moment! We’re all here now, but who knows what tomorrow holds. So, let’s have fun and enjoy life! 

Poor People! The Parody Musical with musical direction by Andrew Milliken and choreography by Christopher Kelley is being performed at The Chopin Studio Theatre (1543 W. Division St.) through June 16th. For tickets and/or more show information visit https://www.handbagproductions.org/.   

Highly recommended.

*Extended through June 23rd!

I've been a devoted fan of David Cerda's Hell in a Handbag Productions for so many of the 23 years they have been in Chicago, and I still get the same great feelings whenever I attend one of their award-winning camp comedy/musical shows.

Having grown up in Miami, Florida with my Golden Girl mom, Joanne, during the years in which the TV show was on the air I have a special affinity for all of their Golden Girls adaptations, especially the Christmas Editions. 

The plotline for The Golden Girls Save Christmas - A Lost Parody Episode at Center on Halsted involves a very sexy Blanche who boffs old Saint Nick until his back gives out and the whole gang has to band together to save Christmas. This show is just a nonstop funny reminder that holidays are for loving up your family, friends, and lovers like any other Holiday. 

This year's Christmas production directed by Frankie Leo Bennett features original cast members David Cerda as Dorothy, Grant Drager as Blanche, Ed Jones as Rose, and Ryan Oates as Sophia as the fearsome geriatric foursome - and they are as spot on as ever in their expert renditions of all four great actresses in the TV show. The fantastic performances from these four original cast members are reason enough for me to keep returning year after year for all of the Golden Girls Handbag shows. 

With the leads taking on the famous TV roles - Cerda as Bea Arthur’s Dorothy the dry, cool anchor of comedy, Drager as the flirtatious unabashedly insatiable Blanche, played by so well by Rue Mclanahan and Ed Jones as the naive, scene stealer as Betty White’s Rose, the Handbag company goes way beyond parody and even beyond camp into a realm of musical theatre genius. This talented cast is compelling and endearing to watch as one feels that you are at times witnessing a live theatrical performance from these three grand dames of comedy!

There are fantastic cameos and lots of big laughs and songs coming from the supporting cast this year from Eustace Allen, Kelly Bolton, Terry McCarthy, Michael Rashid, Scott Sawa, Tyler Anthony Smith, Danne W. Taylor, and Robert Williams.

Hell in a Handbag Golden Girls shows always begin with the whole audience singing the theme song, "Thank you for being a friend," which perfectly sets up the audience for an evening of lighthearted, sentimental, yet bawdy, good adult fun. 

If you are one of those people who delight in period costumes from the 80's you will LOVE all of the fantastic hair makeup and costumes and shoes in this show. The production team includes Madeline Felauer (Costume Design), Liz Syd Genco (Make-Up Design) and Keith Ryan (Wig Designer). 

Hell in a Handbag Productions’ The Golden Girls Save Xmas also has a generous intermission for drinking and catching up with your friends that begins and ends with terrific full cast song and dance numbers like the great tune “You Can't Stop Christmas! It's Coming!”, so you feel you've gotten a nice full night out of socializing and entertainment!  

Be sure to pose for a picture with the fully costumed cast of stars after the show and your donation will be given to AIDS-related charities. Also, mark your calendars for Peep Show, the team’s yearly fundraiser on December 10^th at Center on Halsted to support Hell in A Handbag Productions, a Chicago classic camp favorite theater company that keeps on creating compassionate, funny, camp extravaganzas with live singers - not impersonators - who maintain the highest level of comedic expertise! For more information on Peep Show, click here.

The world premeire The Golden Girls Save Xmas - A Lost Parody Episode by Artistic Director David Cerda is being performed at Center on Halsted’s The Hoover-Leppen Theatre through December 30^th. Tickets are just $42 if purchased in advance and $45 at the door, and $36 for group rates of 10 or more. For tickets and/or more show information, visit www.handbagproductions.org.    

Highly recommended!

Murder, intrigue, and Angela Lansbury: the three universally acknowledged truths that make up a great mystery story. Hell in a Handbag's production of Murder, ReWrote: The Musical Parody at the Den Theatre is the perfect cross-section of drag show and musical. Expect to laugh, cackle, restrain yourself from singing along, and make an immediate tribute to the incomparable Angela Lansbury as you’re reminded of what an icon graced our screens and stages for the better part of a century.

Musical theatre references and camp abound alongside the talented singing and comedic performances. Whether or not you’re a fan of Murder, She Wrote the television show, you’re bound to be entertained outside of all context at Murder, ReWrote: The Musical Parody.

(Left to right) Britain Gebhardt, Grant Drager, David Cerda and Caroline Kidwell in Hell in a Handbag Productions’ world premiere of Murder, ReWrote. Photo by Rick Aguilar Studios.

In The Den Theatre’s Murder, ReWrote, our favorite comedically reimagined mystery novelist Bessica Feltcher (Jessica Fletcher, in the real ‘80s/'90s TV show) has a harrowing case on her hands: that of a rich hieresses's daughter found dead in the living room of the family mansion.

Who could have done it? Her mother? The maid? Bessica’s hapless nephew Grady? It’s like watching a game of Clue play out in real time, only way funnier.

Britain Gebhardt channels Lansbury in voice, looks, and persona as acclaimed mystery author and amateur detective Bessica Jeatrice Feltcher, aka BJ. The hobbyist slueth finds herself at the center of a whodunit murder mystery leaving everyone wondering, “Who killed Christina??”

The rest of the cast is hilarious and committed to their roles as well, from Grant Drager as Bessica’s goofy nephew Grady to David Cerda's haughty, RuPaul-esque portrayal of heiress June Crayfish.

(Left to right) Mark Bartishell, Caroline Kidwell, Britain Gebhardt, Daniel Hurstand, Cathy Reyes McNamara in Hell in a Handbag Productions’ world premiere of Murder, ReWrote. Photo by Rick Aguilar Studios.

Hell in a Handbag Productions goes all out in this production, from the creative and unexpected ways they adapt a television series to the stage, the thoughtful references to Lansbury’s other work sprinkled throughout, and the loving insults they lob at the corniness of the original TV show.

The music and lyrics by George Howe and Ed Rutherford, along with the direction from Anthony Whitaker, make this musical parody a sparkling one. You can feel the love and attention to detail that went into every joke, reference, and visual gag, showing that this creative team genuinely loves its source material. You can only make fun of something lovingly – and cleverly – if you admire it and respect its merit in the first place.

Murder, ReWrote: The Musical Parody is playing at the Den Theatre through September 16, 2023. Tickets can be bought at the box office at 1331 N Milwaukee Ave or on their website.

*Extended through September 18th

Nobody does camp like Hell in a Handbag Productions. Ensemble-developed, oddball parodies of queer iconoclasts are what they do best. For their 21^st season, longtime collaborators Tyler Anthony Smith and director Stephanie Shaw meld Barbra Streisand’s enduring legacy with Mary Shelly’s classic horror story. A cast of loveable weirdos round out the world premiere of this clever Halloween special.

Hell in a Handbag ensemble member Tyler Anthony Smith has been creating one-man shows throughout Chicago’s fringe scene for years. He’s also been a regular feature at Hell in a Handbag over the years. Tyler reunites with director Stephanie Shaw for a story that only his irreverent mind could come up with.

‘Frankenstreisand’ is the story of Dr. Barbra Frankenstreisand’s return to the stage after a 27-year performance hiatus. Only this time, she has her eyes set on a prize higher than an Oscar, a Grammy or even a Tony. Loosely based on the very real 1990s rumor that Barbra tried to have her dog cloned, Frankenstreisand intends to clone her beloved, but dead dog, Samantha. With the help of her assistants Hunchback (Dakota Hughes) and Frau (Brian Shaw), Frankenstreisand returns to the stage for the ultimate performance. Both Hughes and Shaw bring a great deal of physical humor to their quirky roles in Smith’s bizarre little script.

This festive Halloween show is a love letter to ‘The Rocky Horror Show’. The 85-minute musical features your favorite Babs songs, each with reconfigured lyrics for context (and likely to avoid copyright infringement). Streisand fans will cackle hearing these hilariously twisted versions of their favorite showtunes. With every number, deranged Frankenstreisand inches closer to giving her cloned pup the spark of life.

Smith knows his Barbra trivia right down to the costumes and together with designer Beth Laske-Miller they’ve recreated some of her signature looks. Wigs by Keith Ryan lend an extra layer of humor to Smith’s cartoon villain version of Barbra.

This play heavily relies on the audience’s knowledge of Streisand lore. Even the biggest fan might find themselves Googling certain facts as they’re leaving the theater, such as does she really have a shopping mall under her house? It’s no secret Barbra Streisand is kooky and perceived as demanding, and this makes her all the riper for satire.

Smith takes his historian-level interest in Barbra and does his own thing. Mixing in some of her signature qualities: the Brooklyn accent, the long fingernails and of course, the schnoz, he also blends in his own Tim Curry-flavored affects that lean into the more overtly sexual. This is a Barbra who doesn’t take herself as seriously.

A musical about Frankenstein and Barbra Streisand may seem like two ideas thrown into a blender with some bong water, but Tyler Anthony Smith has created a hilarious monster with ‘Frankenstreisand.’ It’s both a tribute to the great diva, and an homage to B horror movies of the 1950s.

Through October 31 at Hell in a Handbag Productions. 4702 N Ravenswood. For tickets and or more inforation, click here. 

‘Christmas Dearest’ is wicked good fun, a hilarious if unholy marriage between Charles Dickens ‘A Christmas Carol’ and Mommie Dearest, the scathing tell-all book by moviestar Joan Crawford’s abused daughter, Christina. 

The show's creator, Hell in a Handbag Productions, is sui generis, a company whose staged shows tap the rarified sanctums of performance art, driven by our local treasure in drag, David Cerda, who penned book and lyrics and shares music credits with Scott Lamberty for 'Christmas Dearest.' This also marks the troupe's return to live shows, with a remount of a deliciously popular show. (Proof of vaccination is required to attend.)

The premise—a tyrannical Joan Crawford (David Cerda) turns Scrooge as she struggles to reignite her career with a big, splashy 1953 musical about the life of the Blessed Virgin—’Oh Mary!’ —casts Crawford in the lead role, natch. She takes liberties with the script, editing to make sure this Mother of God is not outshown by her miraculous offspring. And of course, she makes sure her millon dollar legs get plenty of exposure, even if that lout Joseph keeps tripping on them in the dance scenes.

There are morals here (it’s Christmas after all) though largely loose ones as practiced by Joan Crawford and her friends over the years. And we do get the requisite conversion to goodness after a series of Dickensian ghosts advises Crawford during a dream triggered by Chinese takeout with Johnny Walker pn the rocks. The sweep of Joan's life includes key players along the way—including a child Crawford (Maiko Terazawa) and 1920s show girl Crawford (Marissa Williams). Mark Barty ably carries the role of her daughter Christina from youngster to embittered adult.  

It's hard to say exactly what separates drag performances, parody, and gender-blind casting. But it is certain that in this show the best scenes involve women characters: Olive LaLake (Tyler Anthony Smith) who plays an actress friend from Crawford's early days; and Bette Davis (Caitlin Jackson) who delivers a pancake make-up, platinum blonde-curled version, vintage “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane,' that is a tour de force in rendering Davis's drawling mid-Atlantic stutter, complete with eyerolls and waving cigarette. The scene with the two movie star rivals includes a duet, “Two Old Broads," both catchy and engaging. Davis tells Crawford that while she is a movie star, "I am an actress." We also get this priceless interlude in which Joan appeals to Davis's better nature on the set of "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane:"

Crawford: We should work together, Betty; not tear each other apart.”

Davis: Who says we can’t work together and tear each other apart. 

Kudo’s to Smith, cast in several roles, all of them over-the-top, but not too far over  He is a formidable actor and singer. As to David Cerda, the progenitor and driving force of Hell in a Handbag Productions, he gamely navigates amongst the powerhouse cast members. While they occasionally out-sing and out-act him, they never upstage him. Highly recommended for those who prefer their Dickens loaded with glamour and divas, 'Christmas Dearest' runs through December 31 on the Ebenezer Lutheran Auditorium Stage at 1650 W. Foster in Chicago.