“Ubuntu Holiday” Has Begun at Pittsburgh Playwrights; Chiefs vs. Steelers (CPs Sun., 12/21/14)

L-R Sundiata Rice, Melessie Clark, LaMar Darnell Fields, and Nia Washington
Photo: Mark C. Southers

1) For a seasonal play that’s out of the ordinary, try Ubuntu Holiday by Kim El, now on stage at Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre Co. “Ubuntu” is a southern African word that has been translated as “kindness,” “goodness,” or—in one broad definition—the notion that we can only be fully human through loving relations with others. Ubuntu Holiday, set in the modern U.S., is billed as a “gentle but thought-provoking comedy” about a Kwanzaa celebration. A guest who doesn’t buy into the holiday becomes grouchy and disruptive, but in the end, ubuntu carries the day. Playwright Kim El has long made her mark as an actor, director, and spoken-word artist in Pittsburgh. Directed by Mils James. 2 p.m. Through Dec. 30. 937 Liberty Ave., Cultural District.

2) The Steelers, brimming with enhanced confidence after consecutive wins against the Bengals and Falcons, take on the Kansas City Chiefs in a 1 p.m. game today at Heinz Field. As you may recall, the Chiefs kept the Steelers out of the playoffs last year when they lost in overtime to the San Diego Chargers. If the Steelers win the next two games—this one against the Chiefs and the next one a return match with the Bengals—they will clinch the AFC North division title and definitely be in the playoffs. If they beat only the Chiefs in their next two games they will be in as a wild card team. It will be interesting to see if the Chiefs are a roadblock to the Steeler’s goals again this year. 100 Art Rooney Ave., North Shore.

3) Whither Adam Sandler? He’s in Top Five, the new Chris Rock-written and directed film about a comedian who wants to be a serious actor. The movie also features an all-star cast of Rosario Dawson, Kevin Hart, Whoopi Goldberg, Jerry Seinfeld, Tracy Morgan, and Cedric the Entertainer. Check Fandango for screens and times.

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