They have chairs set up across the first floor of the Vic Theatre tonight. They usually only do this for comedy shows. But then it turns out this is part comedy show as Donovan Woods is hilarious. He starts out by saying he is the opener, but that no one should freak out, because he is very good. After the first song he says, so, ya, that’s what I sound like. It’s a very funny cocky attitude.

Later on, he introduces a song by saying it is the one that couples ask him to play at their wedding. Firstly, he says, he isn’t going to do that. Especially not for a first wedding. It’s more of a second wedding song. And besides, the second wedding is the good one. The audience is cracking up.

Donovon says he is from a small town in Ontario, near the border to Michigan. A few people cheer. He then says there is no reason for applause, he isn’t a fan of his hometown. Also, people in Canada don’t cheer when they hear the name of the city or province that they live in. He then warns that the next song mentions Chicago a lot, so please don’t cheer. He then begins to play “Here in Chicago”. After the very first line, everyone cheers and he stops. “Ok, it was funny that time,” he says.

For the last song, he says people would ask him to play it because it inspired them to build a treehouse for their kid or take them to Disneyland. Just chill out he says. Just go and play catch for 15 minutes. This is a great example of his self-deprecating humor because this song is truly inspirational to make big plans. It’s a beautiful song and a great way to end his stand up set, with music.

Cost of a ticket: $45 and up

PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Worth It +

Rating Scale: Exceptional Value > Worth It > Half Price > Go for Free > Don’t Bother

Quinn Delaney