Lunchbox opens up its bag of sketch comedy goodies this weekend
The latest sketch comedy show in the Quad-Cities, “The Lunchbox: Live,” opens up its bag of goodies this weekend, offering short hits of comedic takes on various subjects from superheroes to politics to vaping – although perhaps all three could be included in one sketch if you see Hillary in a cape dipping to vape. You never know. You’ll have to show up to find out!
“The Lunchbox: Live,” was created by local actor and comedian Anthony Natarelli. Natarelli has been a regular on The District Theatre and Speakeasy stages. He was last seen there as the transgender rocker, Hedwig, in “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” and before that was the lead in “Santaland Diaries.” Natarelli was also a cast member of the last sketch troupe to hit the Speakeasy stage, “Rock City Live,” which performed there in 2015.
When asked how “The Lunchbox: Live” was created Natarelli said “The idea for ‘The Lunchbox: Live’ basically came from always being around creative writers, actors, and comedians. I love sketch comedy and have been wanting to put together a new show. I mentioned it a couple of times to friends and suddenly I had a team of amazing writers and a great cast! We’re all having a lot of fun with it. Since this is a new show it allows us the opportunity to look for new ways to entertain an audience within this format. The first show alone covers everything from politics, vaping, Wall Street all the way to the plight of the citizens of Gotham! It’s an adult show, but it doesn’t go out of its way to be vulgar or offensive. It’s a grab bag of obscure, funny ideas with a pinch of social commentary and self-indulgence.”
When asked about working with The Speakeasy on this show Anthony said “The Speakeasy was my first choice for the show. It’s a perfect venue for stand up comedy, sketch, and improv. The intimate size of the theatre allows us to have the most fun with the audience!”
Speakeasy Director of Audience Development Brett Hitchcock is equally excited about the show! “When Anthony approached us about doing `The Lunchbox: Live,’ the idea sounded great and with the talented group of writers and cast he has assembled I think the audience is going to really enjoy this show! If you enjoy laughing you will want to get your tickets early! I’m sure it’s going to sell out!”
The Lunchbox Live
7 p.m. (doors; 8 p.m. show) April 22
Circa 21 Speakeasy, 1828 3rd Ave., Rock Island
Tickets $10 in advance, $12 at the door, call (309) 786-7733, ext. 2
www.circa21speakeasy.com
