Engaging Vampire Comedy at Lookingglass Theatre

The current show at Lookingglass Theatre, “Untitled Vampire Play,” humorously explores the unexpected meeting of a young man’s family with his vampire fiancée. If the title were more enticing, perhaps something like “Hey, Mom and Dad, My Fiancée is a Vampire!” it might draw larger crowds on the Magnificent Mile.

In the play’s opening scene, Chicagoan Dom, played by Jordan Arredondo, introduces his girlfriend Val, portrayed by Courtney Rikki Green, to his witty father Louie (Kareem Bandealy) and his police officer mother, Alicia (Cynthia Kaye McWilliams). The dynamic between the characters is both amusing and insightful, touching on the parental feeling of losing control when a child brings home an unconventional partner. Douglas injects Chicago references throughout, adding local color to the vampire genre.

Val, in her quest to be a vegetarian vampire of sorts, opts to drink from blood bags instead of human veins, complicating the vampire stereotype amusingly.

The initial family scene, rich with humor and character interactions, is sadly brief. As the story progresses, the focus shifts to Val’s background, where she has a follower named Rose (Jin Park), who is a gaming icon despite her regular stints in a coffin. Val and Rose manage to blend into the Chicago scene until the arrival of Roderick (Walter Briggs), their brother from an earlier century.

Roderick’s entrance introduces a new layer to the narrative. He is pursued by a vampire hunter, depicted with comical intensity by Bandealy. Roderick’s classic vampire traits juxtapose well against modern settings, drawing on traditional genre elements. Alicia finds herself entwined in a peculiar version of Scandinavian noir.

Directed by Devon De Mayo on a cleverly designed set by Alyssa Mohn, the play balances between comedy and a procedural format. The cast excels in their roles, from Green’s vibrant portrayal akin to a retro superhero, enhanced by Theresa Ham’s costumes, to Park’s humor as a gamer-vampire.

Overall, “Untitled Vampire Play” delivers an entertaining experience without overstaying its welcome. It captures the essence of whimsical vampire lore set against the backdrop of everyday Chicago life. The production ensures a lively performance, appealing to vampire enthusiasts and casual audiences alike.

Be cautious if seated in the front rows to avoid any unexpected splatters from the show’s special effects.

A final suggestion for the theatre: enhance visibility with better signage, as many passersby may not realize the captivating performances inside the historic Water Tower Pumping Station.

Review: “Untitled Vampire Play” receives 3 stars.

When: Through July 12

Where: Lookingglass Theatre Company, Water Tower Water Works, 163 E Pearson St.

Running time: 2 hours, 10 minutes

Tickets: $33-$103; contact 312-337-0665 or visit lookingglasstheatre.org