Mike Royko – the Legend, the Man, the Play

By Cate Rees-Hessel with Flo Mano

Chopin Theatre presents “Royko: The Toughest Man in Chicago”, a one-man show written by and starring Mitchel Bisschop, and directed by Steve Scott. Eric Luchen’s set design includes video vignettes with images of the City of Big Shoulders, such as Billy Goat Tavern, the Cubs at Wrigley, and the working class people of “the city that works.”

As a newspaper columnist, I admire Royko’s journalistic integrity, righteousness, and humor. As a native Pittsburgher, I can’t say I agree with his stance regarding ketchup on Chicago hot dogs, but I truly admire his talent. Although Mike passed away in 1997, the immortal words he wrote for the Daily News, the Sun-Times, and the Trib live on.

This highly entertaining theatrical work showcases his opinions on the “Daley machine”, civil rights, Picasso, Frank Sinatra, John Belushi, and even Chicago pizza. You either loved or hated Royko, but whether you are a fan of his or not, this show is certainly worth the price of admission for any Chicagoan. Your deadline to see the columnist reborn is September 29th – for tickets or more information, read www.chopintheatre.com.

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