There's something funny happening onstage at Oil Lamp Theater in Glenview.
The quaint theater opened its 2026 season with "The Outsider," continuing through Feb. 22. "The Outsider," which is directed by Scott Westerman, is a comedy with a political theme. It revolves around an "outsider" stepping in to fill the role of a town's governor after the sitting governor has been kicked out.
Witty dialogue, comedic situations and plenty of political shenanigans make this production, written by Paul Slade Smith, move at a fast pace. The talented cast has their comedic timing downpat and they interact well with one another.
The play stars William Ryder, Andrew Bosworth, Sara DiPasquale, Kenneth D. Johnson, Michael Morrow, Melody Rowland and Jenna Steege.
The concept of humor itself is definitely a star in this theater piece. Director Westerman writes in his program note that "This seemingly silly and farcical satire comments on the inanity of the election process in America without taking shots at any party."
Those who have never been to Oil Lamp Theater will find seeing a show there quite a pleasant experience. It's an intimate space with only 60 seats making each seat a good one from which to view the stage.
Next up for Oil Lamp Theater is "Poor Behavior" running April 10 to May 10.
FYI: "The Outsider" continues to Feb. 22 at Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road, Glenview. Tickets are $55. Visit www.OilLampTheater.org.