Chicago Slam Works' New Political Satire Opens in May

Chicago Slam Works Ensemble Theatre proudly presents the third in its three-performance 2015-16 season, "This Great Nation, Much Enduring", opening Friday, May 6 at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont. "This Great Nation, Much Enduring" follows the political path of an ambitious young Senator as he struggles to connect in the Midwest. Chicago Slam Works Ensemble Theatre (formerly Chicago Slam Works House Ensemble) incorporates elements of spoken word, movement, drama, music, and sketch comedy in each production. Using a central theme, each show is created and performed by the cast members using performance poetry as a stepping stone to produce an original and cohesive evening of theater. J.W. Basilo directs and the lead writer for this production is Shelley Elaine Geiszler. Performances are Fridays at 8:15 p.m. through June 10. Tickets are $20. For tickets and information visit www.ChicagoSlamWorks.com or call 773-327-5252.

"Chicago Slam Works is creating something that no one else in the city is doing" said artistic director of Chicago Slam Works J.W. Basilo. "Our foundation is performance poetry but we've taken that out of the coffee shop and on to the main stage through incorporating other artforms and having everyone's work revolve around a central theme. This production goes one step further by expanding to include a central character too. The cast is having a ball with it."

"This Great Nation, Much Enduring" follows the path of the well-meaning presidential hopeful Senator Thomas Denton on his battle for traction in the middle of the country. As he meets the citizens of the tiny county of Dullish, he learns how in the endless cycle of war, politics and distraction, showmanship is king. Will he be up to the challenge to play the game? Or will his dignity and search for truth overrule his ambitions?

Cast members for "This Great Nation, Much Enduring" include: Lauren Deaton, Osiris Khepera, Felix Mayes, Kyla Norton, Dru Smith and Teagan Walsh-Davis. Bios below.

Chicago Slam Works Ensemble Theatre presents "This Great Nation, Much Enduring", opening Friday, May 6 at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont. Press Night is May 6. Shows run Fridays at 8:15 p.m. through June 10. Tickets are $20. For tickets and information visitwww.ChicagoSlamWorks.com or call 773-327-5252.