How polarizing is Bill Maher? Once, when asked if Sarah Palin could be elected president, Maher responded, “I wouldn’t put anything past this stupid country.” And such is the essence of Maher: You either get on board with his lacerating view of politics and religion or get the hell out of the way. There are plenty of folks in both camps, but they all have one thing in common: They want to see what he’ll say next. And though his Emmy-nominated HBO show, Real Time, is on hiatus, Maher still has plenty to say. Hear for yourself at the Orleans, and expect to overhear at least one person say each of the following on the way out: a) “What a pompous ass!” b) “This country is screwed!” c) “Why hasn’t this guy run for office by now?”

Bill Maher July 17-18, 8 p.m., $55-$80. Orleans Showroom, 365-7075.