Theater is infamous for distancing itself from the real world; it’s a form of escape where the words “gas” and “prices” don’t necessarily come in pairs.

Sophocles, though, would argue that politics and the stage have always had a convivial relationship. But these separate spheres tend to collide only in times of crisis.

Well, have you read the paper lately? We are in a crisis, and there’s no better way to come to terms with it than with a night of comedy, cramming it all together for us.

The Second City first presented Iraqtile Dysfunction back in December, but there has not been a better time to see the show than right now. The sketch comedy revue manages to satirize the Left, the Right and the wrong; it’s an equal-opportunity parody. Known to most as the SNL-in-training of the Midwest, The Second City is famous for bringing headlines to the stage in their ever-present goal to stay topical.

To them, politics and comedy go together, much like the words “gas” and “prices.”

The Second City brigade does not discriminate when attacking our country’s political agenda. At times, their scathing satire makes the 32 percent presidential approval rating seem way too high, but they do not leave the left-wing liberalists unflustered. When it comes to political comedy that is relevant and thought-provoking, The Second City’s mission is more than accomplished.

It is in times like these that our best solution might be to just laugh.

Iraqtile Dysfunction is playing at The Second City, 1616 N. Wells St., at 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays – with additional performances at 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays -and at 7 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets cost $18 to $24. For more information, please call The Second City box office at (312) 337-3992.

– Oscar Melendrez