December 30, 2011 •
Political Satire Group Celebrates Its 30th Year
The Capitol Steps Perform Satire About Political Scandals
A group that began as entertainment meant to spice up one holiday party thrown by then Illinois Senator Charles H. Percy in 1981 evolved into the well known political satire troupe called “Capitol Steps”.
The Capitol Steps have performed in every U.S. state and several different countries. They have earned their fame by writing satire and performing it while the news and scandals it is based on are circulating through the nation.
When the group first decided to pursue the transition from a one-time party performance to a political satire troupe, one founder, Elaina Newport said,
“We thought, if we add some Democrats, some House people, spread the risk around and make fun of everybody, maybe we’ll get away with this.”
No one is immune from becoming the next muse for the Capitol Steps. They have songs about the presidents who have served since the establishment of the group including their song about George W. Bush called “Don’t Go Faking You’re Smart,” a duet with a Laura Bush singing to her husband. His response: “I couldn’t if I tried.”
Even if they have bruised a few egos along the way, Capitol Steps is an accepted and loved part of the political culture. As long as they have scandal and breaking news they can use as inspiration, it doesn’t look like they are going anywhere.
Read “Capitol Steps Turn 30” from the Washington Post.
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