3 Stages of Love Part 2: Simple Love/Unperfect Actor

Love always makes for a good story because some part of it is always relatable. And what better way to explore all the various sides to love than in a three-part cabaret using – at least some – words and songs that people already know.

3 Stages of Love, a semi-autobiographical work devised by Ensemble Member Khnemu Menu-Ra, features a blend of Shakespeare and song – along with original pieces. The full series will run over the course of the season — no need to attend all three, each piece stands alone as a complete work, but a richer story unfolds if you see the entire cycle.

The three-part series is comprised of:

• Part 1: Origins of Love: The Miseducation of Dr. K. September 2025. A sort of classic “boy meets girl/meet cute” that also explores what happens next.
• Part 2: Simple Love/Unperfect Actor. February 2026. A coming of age while emotionally stunted story.
• Part 3 Extraordinary Love. Spring/Summer 2026. A tale that remembers the past, embraces the present and hopes the future will continue to be anything but ordinary.

Not familiar with cabaret as an artform? Cabaret is a form of theatrical entertainment dating back to 15th century Paris and features music song, dance, recitation and/or drama. The performance venue is usually a pub, bar, restaurant, nightclub or even, occasionally, a casino with a space for performances. The audience is often dining and drinking during the performance. Cabaret is often (but not always) oriented towards adult audiences with an underground history.

Simple Love/Unperfect Actor (Part 2) is up next and takes place on Fridays in February (13, 20 & 27) 2026, at Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro (3905 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60613). Tickets are pay-what-you-will. Reserve your spot in advance.