The incisive and entertaining improvisational theatre on stage nightly in Chicago is the best in the world. And with good reason: modern improv comedy was born here.
The Second City – a Chicago landmark and national treasure - launched the careers of such comic greats as Tina Fey, Will Ferrell, Steve Carell, and many others. On each of the two stages in the Old Town theatre, resident troupes perform very smart and funny comedy revues they’ve written. Each Monday, stars of tomorrow deliver scenes and songs created by such alumni as Stephen Colbert, Bill Murray, and others.
At ComedySportz in the Lakeview neighborhood, the comedy is fast, funny, smart and appropriate for all ages. Red and Blue teams battle it out in front of a referee in games the audience selects, and points are awarded based on how hard the improvisers make you laugh. Other shows include The Improv Match Game, in which real audience contestants match wits with top Chicago improvisers, The Rotator shows created by ensemble members, and The Beatbox - a fast-paced fusion of long form improvisation and classic hip-hop.
Visit the city during The Chicago Improv Festival to celebrate all aspects of improvisational theatre. Held annually, this festival presents workshops and produces performances for the general public and for practicing improvisational theatre artists.