“Saturday Night Live’s” (“SNL’s”) first dress rehearsal went so poorly that creator and producer Lorne Michaels asked the network to have a movie ready to go, according to associate producer Craig Kellem in the book “Live From New York.” Despite initial skepticism, “SNL” has not only survived, but thrived. The show has evolved over time and launched the careers of many actors and writers. Now in its 43rd season, each episode of “SNL” keeps me laughing with hilarious punchlines and satirical jabs.

“SNL” is comprised of comedic sketches, a musical performance and “The Weekend Update,” a weekly satirical news style segment. Season 42 was arguably one of the best seasons in recent years. The cast and writers embraced the election year with open arms and biting satirical wit, pouncing on every opportunity to poke fun at politicians. After such an entertaining season, I was dubious as to whether or not season 43 could measure up. However, “SNL” has met and exceeded my expectations.

“SNL’s” obvious strength is political satire and impressions. The Trump administration has provided “SNL” with bountiful material ripe for jokes, and the writers took full advantage. Alec Baldwin glowed as Donald Trump (figuratively and literally), hyperbolizing Trump’s constipated expression and repetitive hand gestures. It is impossible for Baldwin’s rendition of Trump not to elicit laughs. Baldwin’s cold opens, sketches that start the show without an introduction, are undoubtedly hilarious. The writers should incorporate Baldwin into additional cold opens when possible.

Besides Baldwin, Kate McKinnon is one of the most impressive impressionists. In season 43 alone, McKinnon has portrayed Hillary Clinton, Kellyanne Conway and Jeff Sessions, among many others. McKinnon effortlessly alters her body language and vocal expression to create a clear distinction between each character. Of course, each portrayal is perfected by character specific hair, makeup and costumes. It is especially notable that cast members alter their looks multiple times throughout the course of one night.

Although McKinnon shines for her impersonations, Melissa Villasenor, a recent addition to the cast, does not get nearly enough airtime. Last season in a sketch entitled “Zoo-opolis,” Villasenor executed a variety of impressions ranging from Julia Louis-Dreyfus to “SNL’s” own Kate McKinnon. I was surprised that Villasenor has not appeared very often since for additional impressions.

Besides skillfully executed impressions, another highlight is “The Weekend Update” with Michael Che and Colin Jost. Che and Jost not only have hilarious material, but a gift for comedic timing as well. Besides delivering quick one-liners, Che and Jost typically welcome a guest character. Although many guest characters are hilarious, some interviews drag on too long, which decreases the energy of the segment. The most successful interviews are relatively short. It is better for an interview to be short and hilarious than long and mediocre.

Cecily Strong is an especially versatile actress who has made several guest appearances as characters including crazy “Cathy Anne” and frustrated “Claire from HR.” “Weekend Update” writers should recognize Strong’s strong character work and reward her with more guest performances.

Although many aspects of “SNL” recur every episode, such as “The Weekend Update,” “SNL” has a different musical guest and host each week. The most successful hosts are, as one would expect, comedians. Two of the funniest hosts were Larry David and Kumail Nanjiani. David and Nanjiani had the comedic timing and poise that some other hosts without comedic backgrounds were simply unable to replicate.

It is hard to believe that the entire show is written, rehearsed, and performed over the course of a single week. Season 43 continues to impress me, and I have no doubt that it will continue to develop as the new performers begin to solidify their role in the cast. “SNL’s” witty political satire, versatile cast and clever “Weekend Update” keep me anticipating the words, “Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night!”