Edward Snowden is Innocent: A Listicle Expression to Small Fish Big Pond

Pictured above: Kennedy Baldwin, Cameron Herdt, and Colin Rourke of Howl House in Small Fish Big Pond/Photo: Vince Pinto

Editor’s Note: This is an expression by Olivia Sieck in response to Small Fish Big Pond in a listicle form; it is followed by information about the work and process.

Logan Square Improv (LSI)’s Small Fish Big Pond is a new comedy space in Logan Square. I love comedy that is relatable. Because listicles are heightened in popular culture and journalism outlets, I wrote down the moments I connected with during my production in that form.

・・・

1. Paper copiers are my mortal enemies. Don’t trust them; Skynet will take over soon.
2. So much awkward PTSD with the Youth Pastor. They try way too hard being your friend. Stop, just stop.
3. THEY ARE RIGHT. EDWARD SNOWDEN IS INNOCENT!
4. The trio can do the perfect eight count waltzing in a circle.
5. I didn’t know Ben Bailey was still alive… Shame on me…
6. They are so smart and brave for calling out the school district Ms. Frizzle is in. How are they not broke with all those field trips?
7. LEAVE EDWARD SNOWDEN ALONE.
8. At least they think about getting a condom compared to other people I know. You know who you are!
9. I will never get a gray hair as I’m an immortal Norwegian goddess who pledged her soul to Satan.
10. JOSEPH GORDON LEVITT IS A MUCH CUTER EDWARD SNOWDEN THAN THE REAL EDWARD SNOWDEN.
11. Damn, they are really good with their eight counts compared to me! #jealous
12. Liz probably makes more money than me.
13. I wouldn’t survive on Cash Cab.
14. Wow, I’m getting hungry with them talking about French pastries.
15. What did they have to sacrifice to get that amazing eight count?
16. EDWARD SNOWDEN, EDWARD SNOWDEN, EDWARD SNOWDEN.

・・・

Small Fish Big Pond was an hour-long hit that felt like five minutes. Kennedy Baldwin, Cameron Herdt, and Colin Rourke have a charming stage presence. Without spoiling too much, my personal favorite was the sketch with Baldwin, Herdt, and Rourke doing office work; “I’m With You” played in the background and the show ended with interpretive dance.

LSI hosts a variety of comedy events and groups. Its the first of its kind in the Logan Square area. Co-founded by Chicago comedians Andrew Lemna and Alex Prichodko, this intimate, 45-seat theater hosts a variety of comedic shows at an affordable rate ($5 or free) for the community.

“We wanted to create an affordable and supportive space for people to see and perform comedy in Logan Square, because there isn’t a dedicated comedy theater around here,” Lemna said.

Before opening LSI, Lemna and Prichodko produced weekly variety show The Thursday Show, which now runs as the free, signature show of LSI.

“Our underlying mentality with LSI is to put up the best shows that we can,” Prichodko said regarding LSI’s operations. “On any given night, we want to take care of every aspect of production so that performers have a vehicle to showcase their craft and audience members can have the best experience possible.”

Small Fish Big Pond performances occur Wednesdays at Logan Square Improv, 2908 North Wisner Avenue through December 19. More information can be found here or on Facebook.