It’s been two decades since 1812 Productions debuted its beloved political humor show, ‘This Is The Week That Is.’ Back again in 2025 with an opening night set for Nov. 28, this year is extra special for the group, with the show’s run honoring its 20th anniversary.
“Twenty years ago, 'This Is The Week That Is' began as an experiment—a way to laugh at the headlines instead of crying over them,” says Jennifer Childs, Producing Artistic Director of 1812. “This anniversary special is not just a celebration of the show, but of the community of artists and audiences who’ve embraced humor as a way to make sense of the world.”
The show always aims to be a celebration of satire, song, and civic spirit, with current events acting as the centerpiece to it all. 'This Is The Week That Is' takes whatever has happened in politics that week and turns it into comedic sketches, character bits, songs, and rapid-fire commentary. The production also utilizes costumes, big musical arrangements, staging tricks, and audience interaction to drive home its point.
As a release notes, this season’s special anniversary edition will celebrate 20 years of “finding joy amidst the madness.” What that means is audiences can expect plenty of cheeky social and political commentary, with this year’s cast spanning Newton Buchanan, Pax Ressler, Lee Minora, Connor McAndrews, Lexi Thammavong, and Robyn Unger.
As part of the 20th Anniversary celebration, 2025’s run also holds a special night where 27 former cast members of previous year’s productions will hit the stage for a one-night-only show (taking place on Monday, Dec. 15.)
Additionally, to celebrate two decades of entertaining, this season’s schedule will also include a Spanish Captioned Performance on Friday, Dec. 12 (7 p.m.) and an Open Captioned Performance on Saturday, Dec. 20 (2 p.m.)
Shows in 2025 will all hold the theme of “moviestar glamour” — which 1812 says is the “perfect way to celebrate the milestone anniversary of this Philadelphia tradition.”
'This Is The Week That Is' runs Nov. 28 through Dec. 31, at Plays & Players Theatre (1714 Delancey Place). For more information and to buy tickets ($39-$60), visit 1812productions.org
