Hidden Treasures: Chicago's Annoyance Theater

M. Fuchsloch — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Arts and Culture, North America, United States

Years ago, you could walk into Chicago's Annoyance Theater with a six-pack of beer and a pack of cigarettes, sit on one of the many battered couches in the one-room theater and enjoy an outrageously silly, sometimes raunchy and totally hilarious stage performance.

The group gained fame with their show entitled "Brady Bunch Live," during which the actors and actresses did a blow-by-blow reenactment of a Brady Bunch episode, except with an attitude that had you rolling on the floor. Since then, the performance company has gotten a bit more sophisticated with a new location and the addition of a cocktail lounge.

The shows remain ridiculously creative with long-running performances (from back in the BYOB days) such as Co-Ed Prison Sluts and newer shows like Swear Jar. If you are into pushing the limits on comedy, the Annoyance Theater on 4830 N. Broadway is required entertainment.

M. Fuchslock is a Seed.com contributor.

Hidden Treasures: Chicago's Annoyance Theater originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Top spots for mind-body-spirit revival

M. Fuchsloch — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, North America, Spain, Canada, United States, Brazil, Travel Health, Central America

Sometimes you just need a little "om." The daily stresses of life can pile up, the chaos of corporate life can get to be too much or maybe the kids are just getting on your last nerve. You can escape to the gym, or you can escape to a more serene environment where mind, body and spirit are the focus of your journey.

Yogis unite -- the following are some of the 10 best spots around the world for a perfect yoga revival.

1. Azeda Beach, Buzios, Brazil
With 21 beaches and an ultra-loose local attitude, the Brazilian resort town/fishing village of Buzios, made famous as a favorite of Brigitte Bardot, is sure to make a more than adequate ashram. Azeda Beach, only accessible via a walking path from Osso Beach or by boat, has great space to spread your mat and relax while you gaze out at the ocean. Azeda rarely gets overcrowded, but if you want privacy, go early in the morning.

2. Cape May Lighthouse Park, Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May is a spot on the Jersey Shore unlike any other. The historical resort town has a calming vibe that, in part, is created by its award-winning beaches and colorfully painted Victorian homes. But the best place to take in the scenery and the harmony of the sea, as you practice your asanas, is near the Cape May Lighthouse.

3. Battery Park City, New York, New York
You may forget you're even in New York City while enjoying the parks of this southern Manhattan neighborhood, except for the excellent view of the Statue of Liberty. The best park to practice in is Robert F Wagner Jr. Park. You'll have plenty of space and a bit of peace while you ashtanga as sailboats breeze by along the Hudson River.

4. Ventura Pier, Ventura, California
Located on the coast of southern California between Santa Monica and Santa Barbara, Ventura is a city that feels more like a small-town. The pier and promenade, located just off Harbor Boulevard, won't get as crowded as the Los Angeles attractions, and you still get to soak in the ocean atmosphere during sun salutations.

5. MacArthur State Park, Singer Island, Florida
Claim one of the pavilions in this peninsula park where you can breathe in the sea air among the subtropical coastal habitats. Well worth a hike after your practice.

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Top spots for mind-body-spirit revival originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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