My rule for this calendar was there had to be comedy every day! As if it’s a challenge. It would be harder in Chicago to find a day without comedy. Certainly in July, you won’t need to restrict fire power to the Fourth. Comedy fireworks are all month and no mosquitoes.
(Please confirm details to make sure nothing changed since this posting. Events are in Chicago unless otherwise noted.)
If you have a comedy event you’d like me to add in July or in the future, please send details to my email address on the sidebar. It is truly impossible to list every great happening, so I’m counting on you to let me know what I’ve missed.
Thank you to the Chicago comedy community. There’s not another city in the world where all this is possible.
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July 1: Lola Balatro at Brass Chuckles Comedy, Uptown Underground, 7:30-8:30 p.m.
If you ask me to list my favorite bands, I will always mention Lola Balatro. If you have not heard Lola Balatro you are MISSING OUT.If you have heard them, you don’t need to hear anything else from me because you’re convinced. They are the rock stars of comedy.
Lola Balatro is, in order below, Cork Kangas, Paul Thomas, Jeff Madden.
http://www.bigheadpaul.com/shows.html
July 1: Comedians You Should Know at Timothy O’Toole’s, 9:00 p.m.
This showcase features Chicago’s top comedians and is becoming quite famous. Seattle comedian Derek Sheen chose CYSK for his recent album recording, calling it “a destination place for stand-up.” Every Wednesday.
http://www.comediansyoushouldknow.com/
July 1: “The Social Takeover” at the Laugh Factory, 8:00 p.m.
Host Michael Larimer and other top Chicago comedians commandeer an audience member’s Facebook page for 90 minutes. Don’t worry – volunteers only! I might volunteer my husband. Every Wednesday.
http://www.laughfactory.com/clubs/chicago
July 1: “Trigger Happy” at the Annoyance Theatre, 8:00 p.m.
“A series of unrelated scenes inspired by a single suggestion from the audience.” Every Wednesday until August 26th.
https://theannoyance.com/events/category/chicago-show/
July 1: “Improvised Twilight Zone” at the Annoyance Theatre, 9:30 p.m.
“All new moral parables every show.” Last performance!
https://theannoyance.com/events/category/chicago-show/
July 1: TJ & Dave at The Mission Theater, 10:30 p.m. – 11:55 p.m.
Improv greats TJ Jagodowski and Dave Pasquesi improvise a one-hour play every Wednesday.
http://ioimprov.com/chicago/show/tj-dave/2015-07-01/
July 1, 2, 3, 5: Nate Weatherup at Zanies in Chicago, 8: 00 p.m.
Note: on Friday, July 3 there will also be a show at 10:15 p.m.
Nate Weatherup is a comedian and former teacher who just made the move from Chicago to L.A. He often guest hosts on WGN’s “Pretty Late.”
http://www.chicago.zanies.com/
July 2: “Comedy Explosion” at Jokes and Notes, 8:30 p.m.
Thursday showcases rotate hosts throughout the month. Marlon Mitchell hosts tonight. He has appeared on Martin Lawrence Presents: 1st Amendment Stand Up and Bill Bellamy’s Who’s Got Jokes, among many other credits. He has also performed worldwide for U.S. troops.
http://www.jokesandnotes.com/special_events.php
July 2: “Just Dickin’ Around” All Ladies Showcase at Hydrate, 9:45 p.m.
The JDA showcase has top-of-the-line Chicago comics and is “a women-run, queer-friendly showcase that provides a safe, supportive space with a positive energy for our performers and guests.” Enough reason to go, but also: free pizza!
https://www.facebook.com/justdickinaroundcomedy?fref=ts
July 2: “Stand Up Stand Up” Presents Natalie Jose, 9:00 p.m.
Natalie Jose is a cast member of Chicago Underground Comedy. She performs at comedy festivals nationwide and also was one of the stars of Oprah Winfrey’s “My Life is a Joke.” Also appearing tonight are Sean White, Mikey Manker, Dave Losso and Jonah Jurkens. In addition to seeing the wonderful Natalie Jose and an altogether great line-up, this is also a chance to see Sean White earlier than July 7 and in the city. (But go see him on July 7, too.)
https://www.facebook.com/events/1775804195979467/
July 2: “The Attic: REBOOT!” at Under the Gun Theater, 9:30 p.m.
Join Ed Towns, Brandon Kieffer, Justin Golak and Kellye Howard for a stellar night of comedy hosted by Jarrell Scott Barnes.
This is a chance to hear a 20-minute set from each comedian, including Kellye Howard whom I’ve wanted to see in person for a long time. She was one of the stars of Oprah Winfrey’s “My Life is a Joke” and was also featured on the OWN network’s “Herlarious” and on “Last Comic Standing.” She is consistently excellent. You can read more about her meteoric rise as a comedian here. http://people2013.chicagoreader.com/arts-culture/kellye-howard/
https://www.facebook.com/events/1453007685014381/
July 3: Dobie Maxwell, Ken Sevara, John P. Hopkins at The Listening Room (Crystal Lake), 10 p.m.
Dobie Maxwell is one of my heroes in comedy and in life. I recommend seeing him any chance you get. He’s a nationally known headliner who frequently appears on television and radio and is a Zanies and Chicago favorite.
http://www.lakesidelegacy.org/2015-schedule-tickets/
July 3: Jim Flannigan at the Improv (Schaumburg), 8 p.m.
This Chicago native headlines nationwide. Tip: goldstar.com currently has discount tickets available.
http://chicago.improv.com/event.cfm?id=397071
July 3: “Panic on Cloud 9” at Second City, check times on web site
This 103rd Mainstage revue can be seen nightly, except for Mondays. This revue takes on life stressors in 2015 and reminds us to relax, or at least, laugh. Check web site for details.
http://www.secondcity.com/shows/chicago/the-second-citys-103rd-mainstage-revue-panic-on-cloud-9-2/
July 3: “Chicago’s Best Stand Up” Showcase at the Laugh Factory, 8 and 10 p.m.
8:00 p.m. Adam Burke, Paul Farahvar, Erica Clark, CJ Sullivan, Mike Lebovitz and more to be announced.
10:00 p.m.: Michael Larimer, Jamie Campbell, Dave Helem , Josh Johnson, Natalie Jose, Calvin Evans and more to be announced.
http://www.laughfactory.com/clubs/chicago
July 4: “Chicago’s Best Stand Up” Showcase at the Laugh Factory, 10 p.m.
Felonious Munk, Dave Helem , Kellye Howard, Pat Tomasulo, Kristen Toomey and more to be announced.
http://www.laughfactory.com/clubs/chicago
July 4: “The Best of Second City” at Second City, 4:00 p.m.
This show runs Mondays at 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 4:00 p.m. The best of improv, sketch and songs from Second City’s fifty-five years.
www.secondcity.com/shows/chicago/best-of-the-second-city-4/
July 5: “The Second City Neighborhood Tour” leaves from Second City, 10:00 a.m.
This funny walking tour is every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. and every Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. through Sunday, October 11. Tours are led by Margaret Hicks, author of Chicago Comedy: A fairly serious history. (It’s a walking tour that’s funny. Not a tour where you’re forced to impersonate Monty Python.)
www.secondcity.com/shows/chicago/the-second-citys-neighborhood-tour-2/
July 5, Second City’s “Sunday Bloody Mary Sunday” at UP Comedy Club, 11:00 a.m.
Forget the wedding you’re supposed to attend today, you’ll get better food and comedy here. This weekly event features Second City improv on the heels of a fabulous brunch menu. One item that caught my eye in a long list of things I could go for: the Chicken and Waffle Bar.
http://upcomedyclub.com/event.cfm?id=396109&cart
July 5: Jimmy Carrane’s “Improv Nerd LIVE!” at Stage 773, 4:00 p.m and 5:00 p.m.
You get extra insights when one Great interviews another and that’s just one thing that keeps students of comedy and fans flocking to attend this podcast. Jimmy Carrane is known for his improv chops and for his profound honesty which he also inspires in his guests. You’ll learn more about improv than you thought possible in an hour and you’ll also feel less alone as a human. Check out Jimmy’s web site to see the podcasts, his blog and schedule of improv classes. “Improv Nerd” is taping weekly through July.
4:00: Jimmy interviews Scott Morehead of the Second City Mainstage
5:00: Jimmy interviews Jorin Garguilo, iO cast member who has performed on several legendary teams, including the Harold team “Revolver” of which he is a founding member.
http://jimmycarrane.com/events/category/podcast/
July 5: “Blipsters on Broadway” at the Laugh Factory, 7:00 p.m.
Felonious Monk and Dave Helem host an alternative comedy showcase featuring stand-up, social commentary, podcasts and frequent surprise, drop-in guests. Guests for this show include Felonious Munk, Dave Helem, Calvin Evans, Joey Villagomez, Chris Bader, Amy Shanker, Adam Burke, a special guest and more to be announced.
http://www.laughfactory.com/clubs/chicago
July 5: “Arguments and Grievances” at Schuba’s Tavern, 8:00 p.m.
“Half comedy show, half rhetorical fight to the death, Arguments and Grievances is a unique live comedy series and podcast featuring comedians debating outlandish topics for applause, and eventually, everlasting glory.” Hosted by Goodrich Gevaart. Named “2014 – Best of Chicago – Variety Show” by Chicago Magazine.
This month’s gladiators are:
Irene Tu vs Odinaka on Ice Cube vs Ice T
Brandie Posey vs Tom Brady on Dwayne Johnson vs Alcatraz
Tommy Mac vs Josh Johnson on Colonel Sanders vs Captain Crunch
Nick Martin vs Miles Hendrix on Edward Snowden vs Snow Dogs
https://www.facebook.com/events/770137749770150/
July 5: Sunday Night Comedy at Henry’s Swing Club, 8:00 p.m.
Prateek Srivastava, David Philips, Jay Washington. Headliner: C.J. Sullivan
C.J. Sullivan has won the Comic Choice “Best Comic in Chicago” Award and was named one of Chicago Magazine’s “Top 12 Rising Stars to look out for.” He has also appeared on Comedy Central’s “Mash Up” and is a champion poker player who earned a “World Series of Poker” third place title.
One more thing: C.J. gave me one of my favorite answers in an interview when I asked him if he’d ever had a memorable encounter with a fan and he instantly came back with “An oscillating fan?”
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Comedy-of-Chicago/148383091844775?fref=ts
July 6: “MiHiChi” at Zanies in Chicago, 8:00 p.m.
Michael Issac created a multimedia stand-up show and became Zanies’ most recent addition to its roster of headliners. He is also the first comedian to film a comedy special (“Got Next”) at Zanies’ in Rosemont.
http://www.chicago.zanies.com/
July 6: “The Armando Diaz Experience” at the iO Theater, 8:00 p.m.
This is one of iO’s most famous shows and Chicago’s longest running improv show. Created by Dave Koechner, Adam McKay and Armando Diaz, it combines personal stories and improv. Every Monday night.
http://www.ioimprov.com/chicago/shows/the-armando-diaz-experience/
July 7: Second City’s “Go Improv Go 2.0” at UP Comedy Club, 11:00 a.m.
Improv matinees for kids! This show is based on audience suggestions and is safe for all ages. Is there any better parenting tip than introducing your kids to comedy early? There are ten shows this month, but many are already sold out.
http://upcomedyclub.com/event.cfm?cart&id=373350
July 7: Sean White at “Comics of Steel” at the Kryptonite Bar (Rockford), 8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
I saw Sean White for the first time last week and instantly got angry at myself for waiting so long. Fortunately, this comedian is a lifesaving master at turning anger and tragedy into comedy. It was a set I’ll never forget. If you can’t get to Rockford on the 7th, he has many other shows listed on his web site.
July 8: Dave Waite at Zanies in Chicago, 8:00 p.m.
Described as a “charismatic oddball,” Dave Waite was the winner of Atlanta’s Laughing Skull Comedy Festival in 2012.
http://www.chicago.zanies.com/
July 9: “Men on the Verge of a His-panic Breakdown” at the Apollo Theater Studio, 7:30 p.m.
“This series of comedic monologues … chronicles the lives of various Latino immigrants dealing with transcultural shock of race and gender.” Numerous performances through July 26. Tip: half-price tickets available on Goldstar.com.
http://www.apollochicago.com/details.php?recordID=144
July 9: Dan Peff at “Just Dickin’ Around” at Hydrate, 8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Dan Peff is one of my favorite alter egos of comedian and filmmaker Paul Thomas. (Paul is also the front man of Lola Balatro – see July 1.)
This performance is part of Just Dickin’ Around’s all-genders showcase. Also featured: Danny Kallas and Lee Brophy.
http://www.bigheadpaul.com/shows.html
Here is one of my favorite Dan Peff episodes:
July 9: “The Kates” at the Laugh Factory, 8:00 p.m.
Kelsie Huff hosts this showcase of Chicago’s best female stand-ups, which makes its Laugh Factory debut tonight.
http://www.laughfactory.com/clubs/chicago
July 9: “Messing with a Friend” at the Annoyance Theatre, 10:30 p.m.
Chicago improv guru Susan Messing improvises with another talented comedy personality. Thursdays through August 27th (no show on July 2).
https://www.theannoyance.com/events/event/messing-with-a-friend/
July 9-12: Godfrey at The Improv (Schaumburg), check web site for times
From his bio: “Growing up in Chicago, he constantly got in trouble for misbehaving and being an all-around class clown. Godfrey’s Nigerian parents unknowingly encouraged his bad behavior by showing him classic comedy films from an early age. While performing impressions of his college football teammates, Godfrey realized his irreverent style of comedy might be more than just a hobby.”
July 10: “The Kates” at The Book Cellar, 7:00 p.m.
Comedy at a bookstore! I’m sure this is what heaven looks like.
Line up: Hope Rehak, Mallory Bradford, Amy Schwartz, Charlotte Hamilton, Kimberly KB Marion, Abby Stassen, Anna Lucero, Sarah Albritton. Host: Amy Sumpter
http://www.thekates.org/line-ups.html
July 10-July 12: “The Comedy Exposition” at venues around the city
“The Comedy Exposition” is Chicago’s best new comedy festival according to the Chicago Reader’s recently published “best of” 2015. The Reader said it’s “even better” than the “Just For Laughs” Festival it replaced. Check out all the events at:
https://comedyexposition.com/performers.php?id=2
July 10: Rajiv Satyal’s “I AM …” Tour at the Laugh Factory, 8:00 p.m.
Rajiv Satyal describes himself as “the fun-size Indian comedian from Ohio whose witty, universal, and TV-clean act resonates with Middle America by covering everything from racial issues to soap bottles to his favorite topic – himself.”
http://www.laughfactory.com/clubs/chicago
July 10: “Baby Wants Candy” at the Apollo Theater, 10:30 p.m.
Watch an improvised musical comedy instantly spring forth from a made-up title suggested by the audience. Weekly.
babywantscandy.com/shows/cities/chicago.html
July 11: “Chicago’s Best Stand-Up” at the Laugh Factory, 8:00 p.m.
Line-up TBA
http://www.laughfactory.com/clubs/chicago
July 11: “The Blackout Diaries” at The High Hat Club, 8:00 p.m.
Comedians and “regular people” tell their most epic true drinking stories. Then the audience asks questions. The show was created by host Sean Flannery and has been a “critic’s pick” of major Chicago newspapers and featured on NPR and Comedy Central. In keeping with Sean’s legendary status as a comedian, storyteller and drinker (the Reader named him “Chicago’s Best Drunk”), the evening is sponsored by legendary Chicago liquor maker, Jeppson’s Malort. Every Saturday, except July 4. Tickets sell out fast.
http://www.highhat.club/event/blackout-diaries-8pm-35/
July 11: “The Power of Prom” at the Annoyance Theatre, 8:00 p.m.
A new musical comedy written by Ed Furman, Pat Reidy and TJ Shanoff in its worldwide premiere at the Annoyance. “Written as a loving tribute to the 80’s, the show combines elements of the songs, movies, television shows, and pop-culture that epitomized the decade.” Directed by Mick Napier, who is the founder of the Annoyance Theatre and world-renowned for his approach to improv.
https://theannoyance.com/events/event/the-power-of-prom-2/
July 11: Baron Vaughn and Kate Berlant at 1st Ward, 8:00 p.m.
There are so many great shows, including this one, at the Comedy Exposition, so please check out the full line-up of seventy-five comedians. I can only mention a few and point out this one as a rare opportunity to see these two much lauded comedians in town on the same bill.
https://comedyexposition.com/show.php?id=42&festival=2
July 12: “Sunday Morning Stories” at Second City, 10:00 a.m.
New and seasoned storytellers. “Watch the show, then sign up to perform at a future date.” Featuring fellow ChicagoNow blogger Pamela Valentine. Also, Irv Levinson, Stephanie Kush, Steve Glickman and Kathleen Buckley. Hosted by David Slattery and Lauren Huffman. Note: more serious than other Second City happenings, but you can count on the good storytelling to connect and uplift. No doubt there’ll be humor, too.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/409326482526970/
July 12: Jimmy Carrane’s “Improv Nerd LIVE!” at Stage 773, 5:00 p.m.
Jimmy interviews The Shithole’s masterminds Kevin Gerrity and Zach Bartz. Jimmy says, “The Shithole is Chicago’s most up-and-coming “venue” in the underground comedy scene… so underground that their stage moves from here to there. Find out what the hype is about with these two local comedy legends at their Improv Nerd LIVE! debut.”
See July 5 for full description of “Improv Nerd LIVE!”
http://jimmycarrane.com/event/improv-nerd-live-4/
July 12: Showcase featuring Chris Redd at Kamehachi, 7:00 p.m.
This showcase is part of the Comedy Exposition. Chicagoan Chris Redd is a comedian you need to see because (1) it will be a great show and (2) when he’s a household name, you can say you saw him back when.
https://comedyexposition.com/show.php?id=49&festival=2
July 12: Todd Glass at the UP Comedy Club, 8:oo p.m.
This performance is the closing ceremony of The Comedy Exposition. Featuring James Adomian and Phoebe Robinson. MC is Stephanie Hasz.
July 12: “The Indie Hour with the Blue Angels” at iO, 8:30
Your hosts, The Blue Angels, and rotating improv teams take true stories and spin them to their most absurd conclusions. Weekly.
http://ioimprov.com/chicago/show/the-indie-hour-with-the-blue-angels-2/2015-07-12/
July 13: “Snapshots” at Zanies in Chicago, 8:00p.m.
Kevin Naughton hosts a different kind of showcase where “emotionally disturbed comedians take shots at the world of idiocy we’re subjected to every day.” Comedians include Tom Garland, Ben Bergman, Laura Hugg, Jaime DeLeon, Chris Bader, Jay Washington, Tim Slagle, Jesus (Chuy) Nunez, Mike Alexander and Paul Farahvar.
http://www.chicago.zanies.com/news.php?NewsSection=Snapshots#.VZLu5_lVhBc
July 14: “Mixed Nuts” at The Comedy Bar, 8:00 p.m.
” … comedians who are young and on the rise … with some of the Chicago Comedy Scene’s favorite comics. There will be raffles during the show and we’ll finish off the evening with a hilarious Lip Sync Battle between some performers.” Featuring Natalie Jose, Martin Morrow, Laura Beitz, Krista Marie, Joel Boyd, Jayson Acevedo.
https://www.facebook.com/events/918705721528322/
July 14: Chicago Underground Comedy Showcase at Beat Kitchen, 9:30 p.m.– 11:15 p.m.
This every-Tuesday night showcase is an unbelievable bargain at $5. Come see cast members of ChUC while we’re fortunate enough to have them still in Chicago. Alums include TJ Miller, Kumail Nanjiani, Cameron Esposito, Beth Stelling, Dan Telfer and many more. Surprise drop-ins, too.
Please enjoy a classic set by ChUC’s Adam Burke, who was named Best Chicago Stand Up by readers of the Chicago Reader in 2014.
www.facebook.com/chicagoundergroundcomedy
July 14: Tim Walkoe at Zanies in Chicago, 8:00 p.m.
Tim Walkoe was the grand prize winner on America’s Funniest People and has many other television credits, including as Mayor Emerson Bowden on Murder in Small Town X. He regularly headlines at comedy clubs all over the country.
July 15: “Flabby at the Abbey” 3rd Anniversary at The Abbey, 8:30 p.m.
Not only do you get comedians Dale Zawada, Demarco L. Monroe, Vincent J. Hickey, Bob Zabic Roc, Adam Kwaselow, Natalie Nimerala, Kat Rybarski, Laura Hugg, Thomas Bottoms and Larz Simms, there’s free cake and free beer (while it lasts). Produced by Ricky March.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/FLABBY-at-the-ABBEY/555491734472227?fref=ts
Natalie Nimerala:
July 15-16: Colin Jost at Zanies in Chicago, 8:00 p.m
Colin Jost is SNL’s head writer and co-anchor of “Weekend Update.” Did you know he also does stand-up?
http://www.chicago.zanies.com/
July 16: “Just Dickin’ Around” at Hydrate, 9:45 p.m.
All ladies showcase. For a full description, see July 2.
https://www.facebook.com/justdickinaroundcomedy?fref=ts
July 17: “Get on up” at Comedy Sportz, 11:55 p.m.
Comedy Sportz means it: get on up! Audience participation in this free improv jam of challenges and games is encouraged, although not required. Weekly.
http://comedysportzchicago.com/calendar/eventdetail/26082/-/get-on-up
July 17-18, Jay Reid at Jokes and Notes, contact club for times
Jay Reid was a member of Bill Bellamy’s Ladies Night Out Tour and was a winner of the television comedy contest, Who’s Got Jokes?, among many other credits. This show is hosted by Chicago radio personality and comedian, Tony Sco.
July 17-July 19: Loni Love at The Improv (Schaumburg), show times vary
Television host, regular on Chelsea Lately and one of Variety’s “Top 10 Comedians to Watch.”
July 19: “Improv Nerd LIVE!” at Stage 773 at 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
4:00: Jimmy interviews Second City e.t.c. cast member Rashawn Nadine Scott.
5:00: Jimmy interviews lawyer by day, improviser by night Rush Howell.
See July 5 for full description of “Improv Nerd LIVE!”
http://jimmycarrane.com/events/month/
July 19: “Chigaygo” at The Laugh Factory, 9:00 p.m.
“For The July Show, we’ve got a couple of queers and a whole bunch of allies who want to make you laugh and give you a cuddle and grill you some meats.” Line-up: Krista Marie Atkinson, Joseph William Reese, Tamale Sepp, Sarah Gallagher, Kelsie Huff, Jeff Arcuri. Hosted by Scott Duff.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1676480362584692/
July 20: “Female Funnies” at Zanies in Chicago, 8:00 p.m.
Featuring Chicago’s top female comics and hosted by the incomparable comedian and WGN radio host (Pretty Late), Patti Vasquez. Every third Monday of the month.
July 21: “Queer Comedy” at Zanies in Chicago, call for details
Line-up tba.
July 22: Comedy Workshop Graduation at the Improv (Schaumburg), 7:30 p.m.
Comedy class graduation shows are some of the most memorable performances you’ll ever see and are among my favorite events to attend. Students present their newly honed skills with fresh passion and everyone in the room is rooting for them. The shared enthusiasm and love of comedy will light up the night and your spirit and — this is dangerous — will make you want to get on stage yourself. Go for it! No greater feeling in the world than getting up, speaking your truth, getting the laughs and knowing you did it.
MC is Kevin Wood (workshop grad) and the headliner is Frank Townsend.
Tickets are $10, but you can get in for $5 if you mention the instructor, Dave Schwensen or a member of the workshop.
http://chicago.improv.com/event.cfm?id=397987
July 22: Comedians You Should Know at Timothy O’Toole’s, 9:00 p.m.
Sure to be another great night at this showcase.
http://www.comediansyoushouldknow.com/
July 23: “Laugh Factoria” at the Laugh Factory, 8:00 p.m.
This all Latino line-up is hosted by Joey Villagomez and promises a “noche de risa.”
http://www.laughfactory.com/clubs/chicago/3
July 23: “Just Dickin’ Around” at Hydrate, 8:30 p.m.
All genders showcase. The JDA showcase has top-of-the-line Chicago comics and is “a women-run, queer-friendly showcase that provides a safe, supportive space with a positive energy for our performers and guests.” Enough reason to go, but also: free pizza!
https://www.facebook.com/justdickinaroundcomedy?fref=ts
[NEW] July 23-24: Sandra Bernhard at the City Winery, 8:00 p.m.
Great article by Chris Jones in the Chicago Tribune about Sandra Bernhard’s Chicago appearances over the years: Chris Jones talks with Sandra Bernhard
http://www.citywinery.com/chicago/tickets.html
July 23-July 26: Damon Wayans at The Improv (Schaumburg), show times vary
A shining star of comedy in a dynasty of stars. Check web site for details.
July 23-24: Joe Machi at Zanies in Rosemont, 8:00 p.m.
On Friday, July 24, there will be a second show at 10:30 p.m. Joe Machi made it to the top four on Last Comic Standing in 2014. He has a very original, distinctive and memorable style.
July 24: Joe Rogan at the Chicago Theater, 8:00 p.m.
Joe Rogan was the host of “Fear Factor” and he played Joe Garelli on “NewsRadio,” but his real passion is stand-up.
http://www.chicago-theater.com/theaters/chicago-theater/joe-rogan.php
July 24: The Improvised Shakespeare Company at iO, 10:30 p.m.
The Shakespeare play that Shakespeare never thought of! A two-act play completely improvised in the style of William Shakespeare inspired solely by an audience suggestion of a title. Hark! Art thou the bard who shalt provide the title of this midsummer night’s dream?
http://ioimprov.com/chicago/show/the-improvised-shakespeare-company-2/2015-07-24/
[NEW] July 24-26: The Funny Bone Festival at Jokes & Notes, check web site for times
Five shows featuring New Jacks, Bad Boys of Comedy, Leading Ladies, The Vets of Comedy and more. Hosted by Lavar Walker, winner of the “Stand Up It’s Miller Time” national comedy contest and a member of the Shaquille O’Neal All Star Comedy Jam Tour. For more information, call the club at (773) 373-3390 or visit the web site.
July 25: “Based on a True Story” at Under the Gun Theater, 9:00 p.m.
SNL writer Katie Rich is the guest. An interview followed by improvised scenes about her life.
https://www.undertheguntheater.com/shows/based-on-a-true-story
July 25: Joe Machi at Zanies in Chicago, 8:00 and 10:15 p.m.
If you couldn’t make it to Rosemont.
July 25: Larry Reeb at Zanies in St. Charles, times vary
“Uncle Lar” is a Chicago comedy icon.
July 25: “The Kates” at The Book Cellar, 7:00 p.m.
The Kates’ second appearance at The Book Cellar this month (see July 10). More comedy and books together. Yay!
Line-up: Kristin Ryan, Kaitlyn Grissom, Beth Schmidt, Colleen Brennan, Mary O’Connor, Lainie Lenertz, Sarah Gallagher, Dorris McTyre, Jennifer Lavoie. Host: Kelsie Huff
http://www.thekates.org/line-ups.html
July 26: “Improv Nerd LIVE!” at Stage 773, 5:00 p.m.
Jimmy interviews Jeff Griggs. Jeff is an improv teacher and coach at iO, a member of iO’s improv ensemble Deep Schwa and author of the book Guru: My Days with Del Close. For a full description of “Improv Nerd LIVE!” see July 5.
http://jimmycarrane.com/event/improv-nerd-live-7/
July 26: “Entertaining Julia” at The Hideout, 8:00 p.m.
This comedy variety show was founded by Beth Stelling and is now hosted by the vibrant, very funny and original Puterbaugh Sisters, Danielle and Tiffany. Beth created the show to entertain Town Hall Pub’s bartender, Julia. The show sets up shop at The Hideout this summer where the Puterbaughs will host encores of its very best episodes which include “A Very Tinder Christmas” and witches doing stand up.
www.facebook.com/EntertainingJulia
July 26: Pat McGann at Zanies in Chicago, 8:00 p.m.
Pat McGann’s “Chicago Stand Up Project” where he taught Chicago celebrities how to do stand-up, was one of my favorite TV shows of all time. I hope he brings it back. In the meantime, he’s a great comedian himself. Check out his appearance on Letterman in January 2014.
[NEW] July 27: Second City Premiere of “I Am Chris Farley” at UP Comedy Club, 7:30 p.m.
Private screening. Tickets are free, but limited. Reservations required. Kevin Farley will introduce the film and join a post-show Q & A with the filmmakers.
[NEW] July 27: David Heti at “100 Proof Comedy”, Comedy Sportz Theater, 8:00 p.m.
David Heti visits from Montreal. This is his premiere Chicago appearance. Don’t miss your chances to see him! For more info, see July 29, 30, 31 below. He will also have a Chicago show on August 1 at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley Ave. at 7:00 p.m. Hosted by Jamie Campbell, “100 Proof Comedy” was named “Chicago’s best venue for comedy” by the Chicago Reader.
http://www.100proofcomedy.com/
[NEW] July 27: Dobie Maxwell hosts benefit for PAWS Chicago at Zanies, 8:00 p.m.
Also scheduled to appear: Elly Greenspahn, Kevin Naughton, Todd Thomas, Tricia Jalovec. Closing the show will be the extremely funny Jerry Donovan.
Contact Zanies for more info: (312) 337-4027, 1548 N. Wells. ONLY tickets purchased in cash at the door will be donated to PAWS Chicago. Tickets are $12 cash at the door.
July 28: “The Tuesday Ten” at Zanies in Rosemont, 8:00 p.m.
“A mix of 10 headliners, rising stars and surprise guests!”
July 29: “Miss Spoken” at Gallery Cabaret, 7:00 p.m.
I was fortunate to interview the very talented comedian Hope Rehak (interview coming soon!) and she told me about this spoken word showcase. She’ll be performing there on July 29 and I know it will be excellent. The July theme of this monthly “live lit by females” is “Swimsuit Season.”
July 29: Patrick O’Hara at The Abbey, 8:30 p.m.
Rising star Patrick O’Hara can make anything funny, including more than his share of health challenges. His humor and strength are contagious.
[NEW] July 29: David Heti at “Surprise Party,” at Lilly’s Bar, 8:00 p.m.
https://www.facebook.com/drawingboardcomedy
[NEW] July 29: David Heti at “The Blind Bet Show” at The Pony, 9:00 p.m.
https://theponychicago.projectparties.com/The-Blind-Bet-Comedy-Show-e2-1607.html
[NEW] July 29: David Heti at “Comedians You Should Know” at Timothy O’Toole’s, 9:00 p.m.
http://www.comediansyoushouldknow.com/
[NEW] July 30: “Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me” at Millenium Park, 7:00 p.m.
Free show. No tickets. First come, first served. Chicago tickets are hard to come by, so this is a rare opportunity to see the show in person.
http://www.wbez.org/content/wait-wait-dont-tell-me-schedule-faquiz
[NEW] July 30: David Heti at “Parlour Car” at Bar DeVille, 9:00 p.m.
[NEW] July 30: David Heti at “This Week’s Show” at Bar Celona, 9:00 p.m.
https://www.facebook.com/ThisWeeksShow
July 30, July 31: Kevin Hart’s “What Now?” Tour at the United Center (times below)
Thursday, July 30: 7:00 p.m. and 11 p.m.
Friday, July 31: 7:00 p.m.
Kevin Hart is known for his comedy tours like Laugh At My Pain and Let Me Explain and for his movie roles, including The Wedding Ringer, Ride Along and Think Like a Man Too.
http://www.ticketmaster.com/Kevin-Hart-tickets/artist/1057637
[NEW] July 31: David Heti at “Kick Punch Stand Up”, 8:00 p.m.
https://www.facebook.com/kickpunchstandup
July 31: “Janitors to Janitees” at Theater 773, 10:30 p.m.
Comedians Chris Hauser and Cody Melcher explore what happens when a building is really life and what can be done to scrub the darkness.
www.facebook.com/events/1644134449135069/
July 31: Baby Wine presents “Queirdo” at iO, 8:30 p.m.
“Baby Wine is an all-gay cast improvising universally relatable scenework from unique points of view. Baby Wine can only be described as a fast paced mix of complex relationships, a manipulation of gender roles and pop culture mayhem.”
http://ioimprov.com/chicago/show/baby-wine-presents-qweirdo/2015-07-31/
July 31: “Whose Line?” at The Comedy Shrine in Aurora, 8:00 p.m.
Short form improv based on audience suggestions. Inspired by Drew Carey’s “Whose Line is it Anyway?”
http://comedyshrine.com/event/whose-line-improv-comedy-2-28-15/2015-07-31/
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