It’s the holiday season. (Yay! Ohhhh, shit!) You can find a comedy holiday show to meet every mood incarnation of the season, from traditional Charlie Brown to non-traditional Charlie Brown to Second City’s take on the horror of office parties and every variation in between.
Visitors to Chicago this week include Bridget Everett (who changed my life and kindly spoke to me here), Chris Jones, Brian Regan, Jeff Dunham, John Heffron, Jimmy Tatro, Barry Brewer, Steel Panther and Twaimz.
The Last Comic Standing finalists are at the North Shore Center for Performing Arts on Thursday night, including and especially Chicago’s own Michael Palascak!
The phenomenal list of local shows and showcases is in effect, as always. Weather, shopping and holidays are no match for Chicago comedy. Speaking of holidays being no match, did you see my tweet last Thursday about the surprise Thanksgiving night Hannibal Buress show? It was announced Thanksgiving afternoon. I admit sometimes I am the last to know (i.e. “Blood Moon”), but at times I’m on to things seventeen minutes after they’re announced, so check in when you can. You never know.
That said, Dave Chappelle is here (!), but his shows sold out practically upon announcement. Still, I hate giving up, so check here for tickets. Sometimes extra tickets or shows turn up. If you’re good with Craigslist, there are purportedly tickets for sale there. Price unknown!
If you have an event you would like me to add now or in the future, please email me at temewring@gmail.com.
My nightmare before Christmas is that I’ve sent someone out into the cold to the wrong place at the wrong time. Please confirm all details!
Please share this calendar and help spread the word.
Thank you to the Chicago comedy community for its gifts all year around.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30
“Sadsacks and Wisecracks” at High Hat Club, 1920 W. Irving Park Rd., 8:00 p.m. Weekly comedy showcase hosted by Natalie Jose. Headliner: Pat McGann. Featuring Jason Melton, AJ Lubecker, Bobby Condon and Shannon Noll. Music by Paul Karner (Ragged Claws, Meatbute).
Hypnotist Chris Jones at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m. Chicago native Chris Jones hypnotized Howie Mandel out of his germaphobia on this year’s America’s Got Talent and hypnotized audience members and even host Ji Suk Yi on Windy City Live. It was quite a spectacle.
“100 Proof Comedy” at Comedy Sportz, 929 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. Features comedians who have appeared on HBO, Comedy Central, Last Comic Standing, The TBS “Just for Laughs Festival” and more.
“The Cricket” at iO, 1501 N. Kingsbury, 8:00 p.m. Parody of spoken word showcases. You’ll never think of “The Moth” the same way again.
“Holidazed and Confused Revue” at Second City, 1616 N. Wells, 8:00 p.m. Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Christmas as you’ve never seen them. All new sketches. Mondays and Saturdays. (Most Saturday performances already sold out.)
“The Armando Diaz Experience” at iO, 1501 N. Kingsbury, 8:00 p.m. This iconic Chicago comedy experience is a two-act long-form show where one person’s personal stories become fodder for the improv team.
“Wild Out Mondays” at SLR Bar & Grill, 16409 S. Halsted, Harvey, 9:00 p.m. Improv, stand up and music hosted by Just Nesh. Note: $5 after 9:00 p.m.
Bunk 7/3Peat at iO, 1501 N. Kingsbury, 10:00 p.m. A cast member performs a monologue based on an audience member’s life experience followed by a long-form improv with the rest of the cast.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1
“The Interview Show” at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, 6:00 p.m. Interviews with humor. Mark Bazer (of WTTW’s awesome, much-missed My Chicago) interviews Top Chef Masters winner and chef extraordinaire Rick Bayless, comedic wrestler Colt Cabana, Sun-Times investigative reporter Matt Dumke and rapper Saba.
“The Idiot’s Guide to Fixing Stupid” at Zanies, 5437 Park Place, Rosemont, 8:00 p.m. Tim Benger will provide guidelines for diagnosing and dealing with the “stupid” around us.
“Buzz Records” at Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. This musical comedy traces the ups and downs of indie band CLVTCH. Original music w/live band.
“Bit Tank” at iO, 1501 N. Kingsbury, 8:00 p.m. Comedians sell their material to investors in this live reality show.
“The Second City’s Fast, Loud & Funny” at UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. Second City takes on modern ridiculousness and aggravation.
Tim Walkoe at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m. Free admission with a new unopened toy for Zanies’ “Toys for Tots” drive.
“The Comedy Bowl: It’s the most wonderful time of the year … ugh” at Diversey River Bowl, 2211 W. Diversey, 8:00 p.m. Comedy and trivia showcase hosted by Mona Aburmishan. Featuring Benita Santillanes, Mickey Housley, Veronique Nikki Martinez and Ken Garr.
“Secrets, Lies and Alibis” at Elbo Room, 2871 N Lincoln Ave., 8:30 p.m. “Sketches and games inspired by your secrets written and performed by Amanda Lynn Deal, Alex Seligsohn, Elliot Lerner and Sarah Albritton.” Featuring Jeff Steinbrunner, Dave Helem, Keith Paesel, Tyler Davis and comedy music from Jamie Brew.
Chicago Underground Comedy at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont, 9:30 p.m. Birth place of groundbreaking comedy. Tonight: Goodrich Gevaart, Adam Burke, Sonia Denis, Ross Kelly, Josh Cocks and Abby Stassen.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2
Dave Chappelle at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport, 7:00 p.m., 10:30 p.m. These shows sold out in less than an hour, but check the Thalia Hall site over the next few days. Call maybe: (312) 526-3851. You never know.
“Drunk Science” with Sean Flannery at The Comedy Bar, 500 M. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m. Sean Flannery’s drinks and high jinx stories are legendary. At “Drunk Science” you’ll find out what’s going on in the mind – literally – when that stuff is happening. The science of comedy combined with the comedy of science by a master comedian and storyteller.
“Second City Game Night” at UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. Second City meets classic game show. Audience participation included.
“Surprise Party” at Lilly’s Bar, 2515 N. Lincoln, 8:00 p.m. Free weekly showcase.
“Special Event: Supply and Demand” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 8:00 p.m. Featuring Jeff Arcuri, Calvin Evans, Emily Galati, Drew Frees and more TBA. “Mix of the super famous with the next big thing … expect the unexpected.”
“Laugh Battle” at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. Tonight is the Winners Showcase of this improv/sketch competition.
Tim Walkoe at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m.
“Comedians You Should Know” at Timothy O’Toole’s, 622 N. Fairbanks Ct., 9:00 p.m. Album release party for David Drake. Featuring Reena Calm, Marty DeRosa, Cameron Gillette, Matty Ryan and Jeff Steinbrunner.
Planned Parenthood Stand Up Benefit at The East Room, 2828 W. Medill, 9:00 p.m. With Reena Calm, Ali Clayton, Nickolas Rouley, Kristin Clifford, Natalie Jose. $5 donation at the door.
“Blind Bet” at The Pony Inn, 1638 W. Belmont, 9:00 p.m. Weekly showcase.
“Improvised Whose Line is it Anyway?” at The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont, 10:00 p.m. Why did “Whose Line” go off the air for ten years? Did something happen during auditions? This one-act play explains.
TJ & Dave at iO, 1501 N. Kingsbury, 10:30 p.m. The world-renowned improv duo creates a new play every week.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3
“Congrats on Your Success” at Uncharted Books, 2620 N. Milwaukee, 7:00 p.m. I love when bookstores host free comedy events. Free beer from Powell Brew House. Featuring: CoYS producer Rebecca O’Neal, Noah Rocklin, Dan Sheehan, Joey Villagomez. Headliner: Adam Burke. Hosted by Congrats on Your Success producer Charlie Rohrer. Donations encouraged and go to performers.
Dave Chappelle at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport, 7:00 p.m., 10:30 p.m. These shows sold out in less than an hour, but check the Thalia Hall site over the next few days. Call maybe: (312) 526-3851. You never know.
John Heffron at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:30 p.m.
Jimmy Tatro at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 7:30 p.m. Co-star of 22 Jump Street and creator and star of viral video YouTube channel, Life According to Jimmy.
Last Comic Standing Tour at The North Shore Center, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, 7:30 p.m. From the NBC hit show, featuring Chicago’s Michael Palascak (yay!) and Dominique, Clayton English, Andy Erikson and Ian Bagg.
“the kates on Broadway” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 8:00 p.m. Last “kates on Broadway” show of 2015. With Krista Atkinson, Kellye Howard, Amy Sumpter, Sonia Denis, Brittany Meyer, Marla Depew, Lainie Lenertz. Hosted by Kelsie Huff.
Kevin Williams at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m.
“N2O Presents: Gender By Us” at The Public House Theatre, 3914 N. Clark, 8:00 p.m. Gender roles through a comedic lens.
“It’s A Wonderful Santaland Miracle Nut-Cracking Christmas Story … Jews Welcome” at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont, 8:15 p.m. Interactive holiday extravaganza directed by Brian Posen. An all-holiday all-ages show. Thursdays thru Sundays.
“Stand Up Stand Up” at The Crocodile, 1540 N. Milwaukee Ave., 9:00 p.m. Free show. Free pizza. Weekly comedy showcase acclaimed by Splitsider.com and The Chicago Tribune.
“Barack All Night” at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport, 9:00 p.m. The President hosts a talk show where he can finally say what he really thinks.
“Parlour Car” at Bar DeVille, 701 N. Damen, 9:00 p.m. New City just named Parlour Car “Best Comedy Night 2015” and said: “The sheer variety of kickass, pre-weekend standup-comedy showcases in Chicago is impressive. Chicago Underground Comedy at Beat Kitchen and Comedians You Should Know at Timothy O’Toole’s consistently put together solid lineups, but anyone who has been to Bar DeVille’s Parlour Car no-cover show knows they’ve been crushing it on Thursday nights. June witnessed sets by Marc Maron and Bobcat Goldthwait … in the same night.”
“The Wiggle Room” at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 9:30 p.m. Comedy/burlesque brought to you by Michelle L’amour (Burlesque Hall of Fame) and hosted by Adam Burke. (The Reader’s Best Stand-Up in Chicago (2014), Wait Wait … Don’t Tell Me.)
“Chicago’s Best Stand Up” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 10:00 p.m. Featuring Danny Kallas, David Drake, Ali Clayton, Reena Calm, Marty DeRosa and more TBA.
“Messing with a Friend” at The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont, 10:30 p.m. Susan Messing improvises with another talented comedy personality every Thursday night.
“Nick and Gabe’s Holiday (Christmas) Show”) at UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave., 10:30 p.m.
“Jesus: A Sketch Show” at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont, 10:30 p.m. “Tag along with Jesus and his pals as they get into and out of wacky situations. Meet the whole gang: Paul- the social butterfly, Socrates- the odd duck, Buddha- the Chandler, and Judas- the bastard traitor responsible for the death of the Savior. After you see the show, do what Jesus would do and come a second time!”
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4
Bridget Everett at Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave., 7:00 p.m. When Bridget Everett takes the stage, she promises, “Some of you may not know me, but you will not fucking forget me.” These were the truest words I ever heard and I can tell you more about that in my interview with this comedy cabaret goddess here. The late show sold out months ago. Get tickets to the early show while they’re still available. Featuring the Puterbaugh Sisters.
Dave Chappelle at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport, 7:00 p.m., 10:30 p.m. These shows sold out in less than an hour, but check the Thalia Hall site over the next few days. Call maybe: (312) 526-3851. You never know.
Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio at Jones-eez Bar-B-Que, 551 W. Kennedy Rd., Braidwood, 7:00 p.m. Dinner followed by show with headliner Vince Carrone and featuring Dave J. with hosts Katie Meiners and Patrick Bagdon.
Jeff Steinbrenner at Access Chicago Realty’s “House of Laughs, 2256 W. North, 7:30 p.m. Hosted by Nightly Show contributor Felonious Monk and featuring Pablo Rodriguez of the sketch group “Taco Flavored Eggrolls.”
9th Annual Witty Women Conference at The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N. Lincoln, 7:30 p.m. Readings from Amy Guth, Stacy Ballis, Claire Zulkey, Jen Lancaster and Wendy McClure. Early arrival recommended.
The Mary Scruggs Works By Women Festival at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 7:30 p.m. A program of new sketches written by women. Last show of the three-week festival.
John Heffron at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 8:00 p.m., 10:15 p.m.
“The OMG Improv Nightmare Before Christmas” at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 8:00 p.m.
The Annoyance Christmas Pageant at The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. Charlie Brown and Rudolph reinterpreted.
“Holiday Hangover” at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport, 9:00 p.m. A comedic, musical, honest look at the holidays, good and bad.
Kevin Williams at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m.
“Lincoln Lodge Showcase” at Subterranean, 2011 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. One of Chicago’s most renowned showcases. Tonight: Defiant Thomas Brothers, Reena Calm, Calvin Evans.
“Drink, Date, Laugh” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 8:00 p.m. Comedians and audience members find comedy in messed-up relationship stories. One audience member will win a $100 gift certificate. This week’s line up: Paul Farahvar, Jeanie Doogan, Chris Bader, Calvin Evans and more TBA.
“VHS IV: The Return of the Tapes” at @North, 1637 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. Featuring: Kevin White, Matt Riggs, Xavier Lamont, Kristen Toomey.
Tim Walkoe at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m.
Barry Brewer at Jokes and Notes, 4641 S. King Dr., 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. Featuring Em Brown. Hosted by Marvin Mdubs Phipps.
“Just Dickin’ Around” All Ladies Showcase at Hydrate, 3458 N. Halsted, 8:30 p.m. The JDA showcase is “a women-run, queer-friendly showcase that provides a safe, supportive space with a positive energy for our performers and guests.” Also: free pizza!
“Forced Socialization: An Ode to Office Parties” at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 9:00 p.m. Fridays through December 18. No show on December 11.
“The Dave Maher Coma Show” at The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont, 10:00 p.m. “After being in a month-long diabetic coma, during which he was almost taken off life support and subsequently eulogized on Facebook, Dave Maher woke up to find himself like Tom Sawyer at his own internet funeral. “Dave Maher Coma Show” is the comedian’s story of what happened and how, plus all the jokes and questions it spawned: What’s the grossest part of coming out of a coma? What’s the best way to flirt with nurses in physical rehab? What now?” Fridays through December 18.
Lance Allen at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highyway, 10:00 p.m. Click link for your free ticket! Lance Allen has won the college Emmy Award and the NAACP Axel Award. His comedic influences, which started early, range from In Living Color to I Love Lucy. He has appeared many times on Conan and was a regular on VH1’s Stevie TV.
“Funked Up Friday” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 10:00 p.m. “A brand new stand up comedy show hosted by AJ Lubecker, a 21-year-old, off-the-wall reveler … comedians are encouraged to push their material to be as unpredictable and funky as possible. With dancing, crowd participation, and games you will most definitely have a unique comedy experience. Featuring AJ Lubecker, Kellye Howard, Drew Frees and more TBA.”
“Pimprov” at CIC Theater, 1422 W. Irving Park Rd., 10:30 p.m. This famous night of comedy features pimps improvising. Back at CIC for a limited run.
104th Mainstage Revue at The Second City, 1616 N. Wells, 11:00 p.m. Directed by Jeff-award winning Director Ryan Bernier. Shows throughout the week.
“BEEF” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 11:59 p.m. Monthly insult-based game show with audience participation. Hosted by Sean White. If you’ve been reading these calendars, and thank you if you have, you know I’m a huge Sean White fan.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” at Broadway Playhouse, Watertower Place, 175 E. Chestnut, 10:00 a.m.
“Greatest Story Never Told” at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport, 11:00 a.m. Audience members help create “The Greatest Story Never Told” which is then performed and turned into a physical book available for purchase after the show. Come early for arts & crafts, coffee and other activities. Show starts at 11:00am, doors open at 10:30am. All ages show. Children under 2 years-old admitted free.
“Late, Late Breakfast” at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, 3:00 p.m. “Late Late Breakfast is a fast-paced mixed-format standup show/open mic that features comedians telling jokes while facing a series of absurd challenges that could involve anything from an impromptu puppet show or poetry slam to playing a whiffleball game with the entire audience, flying a kite, or giving a guided tour of the neighborhood in a trolley. We even make pancakes for everyone! Doors and signups are at 2pm, Starts at 3pm. Late Late Breakfast is FREE and we do accept donations for the pancakes and supplies.”
“Paper Machete” at Green Mill Jazz Club, 4802 N. Broadway, 3:00 p.m. This weekly spoken-word showcase features comedians, actors and writers. Lots of famous names, but you don’t have to be famous to participate. If you would like to audition, be on the look-out for your opportunity at the Paper Machete web site.
Jeff Dunham at U.S. Cellular Coliseum, 101 S. Madison St., Bloomington, IL, 5:00 p.m. Comedian ventriloquist Jeff Dunham stops in on his “Perfectly Unbalanced” Tour with his popular entourage. Interesting fact: Jeff Dunham’s career began with a Mortimer Snerd dummy and an instructional record album at age eight. Not related to Lena Dunham.
“Comedy Sportz” at Comedy Sportz Theatre, 929 W. Belmont, 6:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m. Classic Chicago improv show. Two teams compete based on audience suggestions to create the best comedy scenes, songs and games. For all ages. Check schedule for many shows throughout the week.
“A Pilot Reading” at iO, 1501 N. Kingsbury, 6:45 p.m. “One of Michael McCarthy’s students from his TV Pilot Presentation class stages a reading of their pilot script in the Chris Farley Memorial Cabaret. It’s free, there’s usually food, and we would love to know what you think. All are welcome! *ADMISSION IS FREE.”
Dave Chappelle at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport, 7:00 p.m., 10:30 p.m. These shows sold out in less than an hour, but check the Thalia Hall site over the next few days. Call maybe: (312) 526-3851. You never know.
John Heffron at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:00, 9:15 p.m.
Tim Walkoe at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 7:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m., 11:15 p.m.
“Mortified” at The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Ave. West, 7:30 p.m. “Everyday people read aloud their most embarrassing … teenage diary entries, poems, love letters, lyrics and locker notes… in front of total strangers … a refreshing show that is equal parts comedic, cathartic and voyeuristic. The largest and longest running project of its kind featuring a cast of Chicago’s bravest souls. Share the shame. Featuring pieces by Lisa Duré, Chanell Ruth, Jill Signorelli, Cheryl Kozielec, and Natalie Moore. Hosted by Shay DeGrandis. Plus special musical guest.”
“The Two-Hour Comedy Hour” at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley, 7:00 p.m. Free showcase.
“Gold, Frankincense and ‘Merica” at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont, 7:30 p.m. America’s holiday traditions viewed through the lens of “outrageous sketch.”
Patrick O’Hara at The Tom Foolery’s “Komedy Karavan” at Bridges Scoreboard, 121 N. Griffith Blvd., Griffith, IN, 8:00 p.m. Also featuring Melissa Richelle, Keith Evans and Mike Brown. Hosted by Marci “The One and Only” Deloney. Music by Bit of Timepeace
Brian Regan at Genesee Theater, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan, 8:00 p.m. If it weren’t for a college football coach, we might be going to Brian Regan to do our taxes instead of for high-energy, on-point observational comedy. Yes, he originally planned to become an accountant which would have been a huge non-deductible loss for comedy fans. His football coach told him to pursue theater instead. He is beloved among both comedians and audiences and is known for avoiding profanity and blue humor. His brother is comedian Dennis Regan.
“The Revival Hour” at The Revival, 1160 E. 55th St., 8:00 p.m. An hour of improv on the exact same corner where The Compass Players got their start.
“Blackout Diaries” at High Hat Club, 1920 W. Irving Park Rd., 8:00 p.m. Hosted by Sean Flannery, this evening features comedians and regular folk telling their own legendary drinking stories. The audience will have a chance to ask questions. Featured on NPR, Comedy Central and in all the major Chicago papers as one of the city’s most recommended events. Saturdays. Get tickets soon – sells out fast!
“Whirled News Tonight” at iO, 1501 N. Kingsbury, 8:00 p.m. This satirical take on current events has won rave reviews from The Chicago Tribune, The Chicago Sun-Times, The Chicago Reader and the Onion A.V. Club. Weekly.
Kevin Williams at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m.
Barry Brewer at Jokes and Notes, 4641 S. King Dr., 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. Featuring Em Brown. Hosted by Marvin Mdubs Phipps.
“HilariTea” at Madame Zuzu’s Tea Shop, 582 Roger Williams Highland Park, 8:30 p.m. Comedians Krista Atkinson, Elizabeth Gomez and Denise Medina host a showcase of comedians featured at Zanies, The Laugh Factory, Second City and more. Billy Corgan’s place at its funniest.
“Based on a True Story with Julia Sweeney” at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport, 9:00 p.m. “We invite a special guest, interview them about their life and improvise scenes based on those stories.” A unique opportunity to see an SNL favorite in person.
“Urban Twist” at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 9:00 p.m. “Urban Twist” is a troupe representing Second City’s Outreach & Diversity Program. Get tickets soon – they sell out in advance!
Lance Allen at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highyway, 10:00 p.m. Click link for your free ticket!
“The Hey Man Comedy Showcase” at Cigars and Stripes, 6715 Ogden Ave, Berwyn, 10:00 p.m. Hosted by John Griffin. Featuring Blake Burkhart and Bryan Christopher. Headliner: Mr. JJ
“Double Feature” at The Revival, 1160 E. 55th St., 10:30 p.m. TJ Jagodowski improvises with Billy Bungeroth followed by more of Chicago’s great improvisers who’ll compose an improvised musical.
“Blipster Life Presents The Green Room” at The Revival, 1160 E. 55th St., 10:30 p.m. Music and comedy hosted by Dave Helem and Felonious Monk.
104th Mainstage Revue at The Second City, 1616 N. Wells, 11:00 p.m. Directed by Jeff-award winning Director Ryan Bernier. Shows throughout the week.
“Second City Game Night” at UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave., 11:00 p.m. Second City meets classic game show. Audience participation included.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” at Broadway Playhouse, Watertower Place, 175 E. Chestnut, 10:00 a.m.
“Sunday Morning Stories” at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 10:00 a.m. For new and seasoned storytellers with opportunities for storytellers-to-be. Click here to to sign up. Hosts: Kevin D’Ambrosio, Justin Flowers, Lauren Huffman, David Slattery, Billy Sullivan and Ranjit Souri who is the creator and executive producer of the show. Technical Director: Zach Stinnett
“Sunday Morning Stories” is followed by …
“The Sunday Morning Open Mic” at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 11:00 a.m. Click here to learn to sign up. Hosts: Adam Bowman, Kevin D’Ambrosio, Justin Flowers, James Knowles, Val Jencks and creator and executive producer, Sanjit Souri. Technical Director: Zach Stinnet
Dave Chappelle at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport, 7:00 p.m., 10:30 p.m. These shows sold out in less than an hour, but check the Thalia Hall site over the next few days. Call maybe: (312) 526-3851. You never know.
Twaimz presents Issa’s Holiday Party at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:00 p.m. “Video content creating phenomenon on both Vine and YouTube known for his extreme love of llamas and his eccentric, comedic behavior.”
“Christmas Bingo: It’s a Ho-Ho-Holy Night” at Royal George Theater, 1641 N. Halsted, 3:00 p.m. Also Fridays and Saturdays. Written by Vicki Quade (Late Night Catechism).
“It’s A Wonderful Santaland Miracle Nut-Cracking Christmas Story … Jews Welcome” at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont, 3:15 p.m. “Spend time with family and friends amidst a fun flurry of excitement that combines dozens of the world’s most beloved holiday stories in one festivous, cheeky, exciting show! Back by popular demand, audiences are taken on a seasonal adventure with singing, dancing, stories, interactive games and non-holiday specific eggnog. Directed by Brian Posen, with choreography by Matter Dance Company, this is an all holiday and all ages show.”
“Improv Nerd” at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont, 5:00 p.m. Jimmy Carrane interviews Emmy award-winning WTTW produer Geoff Baer who has also been a part of Second City’s Player’s Workshop as a teacher and performer.
Steel Panther at House of Blues, 329 N. Dearborn, 6:30 p.m. The parody glam metal band brings their “Well Hung-Over” Tour to Chicago.
“Jimmie and Johnnie” at Second City, 1616 N. Wells, 7:00 p.m. Improv with Jimmy Carrane, John Hildreth and a special guest.
“Bust-A-Gut Sundays” at Flavor Brunch, 17575 S. Kedzie, Hazelcrest, 7:00 p.m. Tony Sco, of 106.3 and Windy City Live, hosts this comedy showcase every Sunday.
John Heffron at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:00 p.m.
“Stir-Friday Night! And Friends!” at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport, 9:00 p.m. This Chicago-based Asian-American comedy enemble tours nationally. Alumni include Danny Pudi from Community and Steven Yeun from The Walking Dead. The “Friends” this week are “The Rebound” and “ProDuNKTion.”
“The Great Annoyance Melodrama and Vaudeville Holiday Revue” at The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. A highest-tree-decorating contest goes off the rails. Sundays through Dec. 27.
“Lincoln Lodge Showcase” at The Revival, 1160 E. 55th St., 8:00 p.m.
“Arguments and Grievances” at Schubas Tavern, 3159 N. Southport, 8:00 p.m. This month’s debates: Peter-john Byrnes vs Cody Melcher (Christmas Tree vs Mistletoe), Tom Wisdom vs Mike Timlin (Peanut Allergies vs Gluten Allergies), Kolin Bohannon vs Mary Quinn (Stand-up vs Improv), David Philips vs Kristin Lundberg (Al Pacino vs Cappuccino). Hosted by Kevin Brody.
Comedy of Chicago Showcase at Henry’s, 18 W. Hubbard, 8:00 p.m. A showcase curated by comedyofchicago.com
Pat McGann at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m.
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