The Strangerer recreates the first 2004 election debate between Prez George Bush and his Democratic rival, John Kerry, moderated by PBS stalwart Jim Lehrer. Instead of discussing geo-politics, the candidates offer verbal combat about the morality of murdering Lehrer. That’s the story in The Strangerer, which channels politics through Albert Camus’ seminal existential novel, The Stranger, in political satire at its very best. The Strangerer was a surprise hit two years ago for esoteric Theatre Oobleck, which now revives it to launch its 20th anniversary year. Author Mickle Maher himself plays Kerry. The Strangerer is performed at Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division; 773-347-1041; $10 if you’ve got it, free if you’re broke. Photo by Kristin Basta