*Flanagan’s Wake is one of the longest-running shows in Chicago theater history. When will it end? According to Brian Ballybunion, Flanagan’s best friend and drinkin’ mate, “We’ll keep waking himself until we get it right.” Join the villagers of the beautiful fictional village of Grapplin, County Sligo, Ireland, as they tell tales, sing songs and mourn the passing of one of their own, Flanagan. You’ll be transported to the Emerald Isle to grieve as only the Irish can. You can share tales of your own experiences and misadventures with dear old Flanagan or simply enjoy the stories and songs of the locals as they recall life with “himself.” Once you have arrived in Grapplin, you’ll pay your respects to glowering Mother Flanagan and to poor grieving fiancée, Fiona Finn. Listen to a eulogy written by County Sligo’s best-known writer, Mickey Finn, and tip a pint with Brian Ballybunion, himself a weaver of tales. You can cross yourself with the blessings from St. Gregory’s parish priest, Father Damon Fitzgerald, or cross your fingers that local pagan Kathleen Mooney doesn’t cast a spell on you. Mayor Martin O’Doul will preside over the proceedings with an iron hand (and a parched throat).* * From the SCT site Nothing could have prepared us for the hilarity of the night ahead. The block box was indeed set up like a pub, familiar to anyone who has spent any time in one. There are four tables and the folks seated there are handpicked for some special interaction, but that doesn't mean you are safe. Everyone is brought into the fun, from providing Flanagan's last vacation spot (Chowchilla) to how he died (in a soap factory). The cast weaves these into the action and never once lets the audience catch its breath. I can see now why it's been sold out for all of its run. It was a hoot and a holler of a good time with plenty of Guiness to go around!