We left Milwaukee at around 4:30, too late to grab dinner and still make the 7pm show. SpotHero found us a parking spot about half a mile from the venue, down Seminary, and it was a nice walk though what I imagine is Chicago's version of Bay View - plenty of nice shops and homes, plenty of people out walking dogs, a feeling of safety but with enough graffiti to remind you you were in Chi-Town.
The Vic was built as the Victoria Theater back in 1912, the same year the Titanic sank, and apparently, they ADORED stairs in 1912.
Now, I'm not talking about a simple, utilitarian use of stairs to carry patrons from one level of the building to another. Oh no. There are THREE flights of descending stairs and a winding passage (ending in a large step) just to reach the restrooms, and steps galore throughout. You want to move six feet to your left? Go down a flight, then up another. Architect John E.O. Pridmore and M.C. Escher must have been kin.
But all kidding aside, the theater is gorgeous.
Here's Lisa with her $24 drink
We had balcony seats (row K, seats 302 and 301) and our view was fine, although Lisa thought we lost a lot in not being able to see Ali's facial expressions. Both Siddiq and his opener (dang, I wish I recalled his name) were hilarious, and I laughed a lot.
But while we could hear the opener fine, most of Ali's first ten minutes were a mystery, until people in the balcony started yelling that we couldn't hear. After that it greatly improved, although you still had to pay attention or risk losing a word or two.
A great time, and we'd definitely see him again. Check him out on Youtube!
