A familiar face on Comedy Central tomorrow night! Tune in to @midnight at 11 p.m. to see Dan Telfer, formerly of Chicago Underground Comedy (ChUC). He was one of Chicago’s most popular stand-ups before he moved to L.A. a couple of years back. He is recognized around the world for his “Best Dinosaur” viral video and known for turning science into comedy. He is now an Emmy-award winning producer with @midnight. This will be his first time on the show’s on-air panel. Joining him will be (additional woo!) Maria Bamford and Steve Agee.
Another Chicago Underground Comedy alum is also in the news. Last week, Judd Apatow announced that he will produce the movie Big Sick, written by Kumail Nanjiani (Silicon Valley, The Meltdown with Jonah and Kumail) with his wife and writing partner Emily V. Gordon. Kumail was a founding castmember of ChUC.
The line-up for the Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival has been announced. Sketch Fest, which runs from January 7-17 at Stage 773 is the largest sketch comedy festival in the world with 165 groups from around the country and 186 shows. I’m looking at the list of shows and it is unrivaled. I recommend making a list and getting tickets soon! Stage 773 late at night teeming with amped-up comedy fans and performers while people enter and exit with the frigid January air which immediately dissipates in the heat and excitement is a singular Chicago experience. Of course, the shows are fabulous. The atmosphere, the comedy, the talent, the energy. Nowhere else.
Ticket alert! Jerry Seinfeld at Waukegan’s Genessee Theater on March 19 (tickets on sale December 11 at 10:00 a.m.)! Steven Wright at the North Shore Center for Performing Arts on April 8 (tickets on sale now if you sign up for emails. Otherwise, December 11 at 10:00 a.m.)! Carol Burnett at The Chicago Theatre on May 20! Tickets are available now!
UPDATE: Carol Burnett has announced a second show on May 19. Tickets on sale December 11 at noon.
In town this week: Dave Chappelle (unfortunately, ticket impossible), Louie Anderson, Hannibal Buress, Cameron Esposito (ChUC alum) and Rhea Butcher, Deon Cole, Andy Andrist, Rick Shapiro, Lisa Lampanelli, Gary Gulman and Kelly Kelz. AND!!! The sparkling classic star of theater and television, Georgia Engel is here until January 17 in the pre-Broadway run of Gotta Dance.
If there is anything you would like me to add now or in the future, please email me at temewring@gmail.com. I’m going to start shortening the calendar due to an E.R.-worthy holiday hangover already! I knew I was in trouble when I accidentally referred to Trader Joe’s as Trader Ho’s. But please still send your events. I’ll include as much as I can.
I’m grateful to live in a city where the list of comedy events is so overwhelming and this is only a fraction of it. Please explore all of these venues’ offerings. Thank you to the extraordinary people who make it all possible.
Oh and please share this calendar and help me spread the word!
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7
Dave Chappelle at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport, 7:00 p.m., 10:30 p.m. All thirteen of Dave Chappelle’s Chicago shows sold out upon announcement. Some people report finding tickets on Craigslist. Added shows are unlikely, but you never know … Thalia Hall: (312) 526-3851.
“Hilarity Will Hit Your Ear Tonight” at Door No. 3 at Double Door, 1551 N. Damen, 7:00 p.m. Final show! Headliner Jon Griffin with Brandon Andreasan, Mike Sheehan, Kelly LaBanco, Tim Brennan, Bridget Flaherty, Mike Stricker and Shaun Reinert. Special guest Russ Wishner.
“Sadsacks and Wisecracks” at High Hat Club, 1920 W. Irving Park Rd., 8:00 p.m. Weekly comedy showcase hosted by Natalie Jose.
“Best Night Ever” at the GMan Tavern, 3740 N. Clark, 8:00 p.m. Free showcase produced by Mike Cronin, Sam McHale, Thomas Brady and Dave Losso.
“100 Proof Comedy” at Comedy Sportz, 929 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. Headliner: Matty Ryan. Featuring Charlie Rohrer, with Tyler Jackson, Josh Ballew and more.
“Death of the Cool” at iO, 1501 N. Kingsbury, 8:00 p.m. iO’s monthly and only storytelling event with all new material from Chicago’s top improvisers and storytellers.
“The Armando Diaz Experience” at iO, 1501 N. Kingsbury, 8:00 p.m. Chicago’s longest running improv show founded by Adam McKay, Dave Koechner and the actual Armando Diaz. A classic Chicago improv experience.
Kevin Bozeman At Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m. One of my favorite Zanies regulars.
“Wild Out Mondays” at SLR Bar & Grill, 16409 S. Halsted, Harvey, 9:00 p.m. Improv, stand up and music hosted by Just Nesh with T Murph and Tony Sco.
“The Mixer” at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted, 10:00 p.m. “Everyone who shows up gets to play! Each week starting at 10pm we have a workshop from some of the top performers and coaches in Chicago. At 10:30pm we break into teams and run a long form show. Hosted by Kevin Reader and Bryan Duff of Lumberjack Tsunami, The Mixer is for anyone interested in improv whether you’re brand new or old hat.”
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8
Chanukah Comedy Lounge at Lubavitch Chabad of Skokie, 4059 Dempster Street, Skokie, 7:15 p.m. Open bar and dinner with trivia, quizzes and comedy hosted by Brett Walkow.
“Twist Your Dickens” at The Goodman Theater, 170 N. Dearborn, 7:30 p.m. This collaboration between Second City and the Goodman is back by popular demand for a second year. Interactive holiday songs and other mayhem based on A Christmas Carol. Written by former Colbert Report writers Peter Gwinn and Bobby Mort.
“Ain’t Jokin’ Wit Chu” at Abram Gale Bar & Grill, 2366 N. Neva, 8:00 p.m. With Bill Gevirtz, Audrey Jonas, Brendan Gardiner, Ricky Madeja, Tessa Orzech, Mark Seaton, Zach Shornick.
“Dave Chappelle’s Juke Joint” at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport, 8:00 p.m. All thirteen of Dave Chappelle’s Chicago shows sold out upon announcement. Some people report finding tickets on Craigslist. I read it’s unlikely any new shows or dates will be added … but you never know … Thalia Hall: (312) 526-3851.
“The Tuesday Ten” at Zanies, 5437 Park Place, Rosemont, 8:00 p.m. “A mix of ten headliners, rising stars and surprise guests!”
Kevin Bozeman At Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m. One of my favorite Zanies regulars.
Chicago Underground Comedy at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont, 9:30 p.m. Birth place of groundbreaking comedy. Original comedy home of Beth Stelling, Cameron Esposito, Dan Telfer, TJ Miller, Kumail Nanjiani and many more. Come see the current extraordinary cast and the always stellar line-up.
“Nervous Breakdown” at Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont, 9:30 p.m. Stand-ups are forced to improvise.
“Sketch on the Rocks” at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted, 10:00 p.m. An opportunity to see one of Chicago’s up-and-coming sketch group.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9
“13th Annual Holiday Giggle” at Joe’s Bar, 940 W. Weed, 6:00 p.m. A night of comedy where ten comedians donate their time to ten local charities.
Dave Reidy Interview with Scott Turow at The Book Stall, 811 Elm St., 7:00 p.m. Dave Reidy is the author of The Voiceover Artist. Chicago improv is a big part of the story and Keegan-Michael Key said, “Woven into the middle of this captivating story is the most accurate depiction of the Chicago improv world that I’ve ever read. When you open the book, you can smell the stale beer and hear the clever quips.”
“Twist Your Dickens” at The Goodman Theater, 170 N. Dearborn, 7:30 p.m. This collaboration between Second City and the Goodman is back by popular demand for a second year. Interactive holiday songs and other mayhem based on A Christmas Carol. Written by former Colbert Report writers Peter Gwinn and Bobby Mort.
“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.
“104th Mainstage Revue: “Fool Me Twice, Déjà Vu” at The Second City, 1616 N. Wells, 8:00 p.m. This show just got an excellent review from The Chicago Tribune’s Chris Jones. Directed by Jeff-award winning Director Ryan Bernier. Shows throughout the week.
“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 David Drake, Sean White, Jeff Arcuri, Caitlin Checkeroski, Sam Norton and more TBA. “Mix of the super famous with the next big thing … expect the unexpected.”
“Holiday Highballers” at Comedy Sportz, 929 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. Rat Pack-style holiday-themed music and comedy.
Kevin Bozeman At Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m. One of my favorite Zanies regulars.
“Comedians You Should Know” at Timothy O’Toole’s, 622 N. Fairbanks Ct., 9:00 p.m. Six comedians you should know. Kristen Toomey hosts Adam Burke, Ricky Gonzalez, Danny Kallas, Xavier Lamont, Mike Stanley and Kevin White!
“Blind Bet” at The Pony Inn, 1638 W. Belmont, 9:00 p.m. Weekly showcase.
“Brass Chuckles Comedy” at Uptown Underground, 4707 N. Broadway, 9:00 p.m. Weekly showcase featuring stand up, improv, musical comedy, burlesque and more. Hosted by Sayjal Joshi and Tamale.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10
Louie Anderson Interview on Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio at your place, 8:00-9:00 a.m. Tune in online or download the app and you’re there!
Louie Anderson at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:30 p.m. One of comedy’s greats. His book Dear Dad: Letter from an Adult Child is one of my favorites.
“Twist Your Dickens” at The Goodman Theater, 170 N. Dearborn, 7:30 p.m. This collaboration between Second City and the Goodman is back by popular demand for a second year. Interactive holiday songs and other mayhem based on A Christmas Carol. Written by former Colbert Report writers Peter Gwinn and Bobby Mort.
Cameron Esposito and Rhea Butcher at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport, 8:00 p.m., 10:30 p.m. Cameron Esposito and Rhea Butcher are partners in comedy and life. They were each developing successful comedy careers when they met at an open mic in Chicago. They’ve since moved to L.A. and continued their meteoric rise individually and as a couple. Cameron has appeared on The Marc Maron Show, on his WTF podcast and on The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson where his other guest, Jay Leno, called her “the future of comedy.” Gary Marshall cast her in the 2016 release Mother’s Day with Jennifer Aniston and Julia Roberts.
Rhea is a frequent guest on Kumail Nanjiani’s X-files Files and on Dan Harmon’s Harmontown. Rhea and Cameron are co-hosts of the popular podcasts, Wham Bam Pow and Put Your Hands Together. They will host a show on NBC’s online channel Seeso when it debuts next month and were featured recently on the web series, Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls.
Rhea Butcher & Cameron Esposito at Put Your Hands Together from cameron esposito on Vimeo.
Sean Flannery’s “Never Been to Paris” at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m. This one-man show about the many times Sean Flannery nearly accidently killed himself is one of the best shows I’ve ever seen. Tickets will sell out early!
“Fun Time Gals” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 8:00 p.m. Kristen Toomey and Natalie Jose headline. Hosted by Andy Fleming.
“Rat Pack Comedy 1-Year Anniversary Show” at The Holiday Club, 4000 N. Sheridan, 8:00 p.m. Headliner: TBA! Featuring Reena Calm, Mike Timlin, Sonia Denis, Nate Burrows. Special Guest: Joel Schaumburg. Hosted by: The Rat Pack (Conor Cawley, Terence Hartnet and Kahlil Wilson). Music by: Mike McCarthy.
Rick Shapiro at @North Bar, 1637 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. Rick Shapiro’s credits include Top Five with Chris Rock and Lucky Louie with Louie C.k. He also played the recurring character Angry Poet on Late Night with Conan O’Brien and Marc Maron’s neighbor, Bernie, on Maron. He has been called “the Lenny Bruce of our time.”
“The Love Below Comedy Show” at Beermiscuous, 2812 N. Lincoln, 8:00 p.m. With Jonathan Giles.
“N2O Presents: Gender By Us” at The Public House Theatre, 3914 N. Clark, 8:00 p.m. Gender roles through a comedic lens.
“Comedy Sportz Match” at Comedy Sportz, 8:00 p.m. Two improv teams compete based on your suggestions. Appropriate for all ages.
“Stand Up Stand Up Presents: C.J. Sullivan” at The Crocodile, 1540 N. Milwaukee Ave., 8:00 p.m. Free show. Free pizza. Weekly comedy showcase acclaimed by Splitsider.com and The Chicago Tribune. Headliner: C.J. Sullivan. Featuring: Kellye Howard, Jake McKenzie, Mikey Manker, Keith Paesel and a secret special guest. Hosted by Lara Beitz
Kevin Bozeman At Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m. One of my favorite Zanies regulars.
“Just Dickin’ Around” at Hydrate, 3458 N. Halsted, 8:30 p.m. “All genders showcase. 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!
“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 everything he’s wanted to say.
“Parlour Car” at Bar DeVille, 701 N. Damen, 9:00 p.m. New City named this free showcase“Best Comedy Night 2015” and said: “ … 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.)
“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 11
Jamie Lissow Interview on Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio at your place, 7:30 a.m. Tune in online or download the app and you’re there! Jamie Lissow co-stars with Rob Schneider in the new Netflix series, Real Rob.
“the kates” at The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N Lincoln Ave, 7:00 p.m. “Live lit with laughs”
Home Alone at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Hall, 220 S. Michigan Ave., 7:00 p.m. The classic holiday film accompanied by John Williams’ score live.
“Defiant Thomas Brothers” at Second City, 1616 N. Wells, 7:30 p.m. Due to cheering crowds and rave reviews, DTB now have an open run at Second City. This sketch duo has original, comedic spins where others fear to tread and always with a stratospheric level of creativity and no fear. In 2005, they had an 80-week run in Chicago and went on to take HBO’s Aspen Comedy Arts Festival by storm, returning home with the “best sketch group” award. What happened after that? No one knows. I just know that DTB were already a legend when they reunited this past September. It’s a Chicago comedy must-see.
Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio Live at Wallace Hall, 809-899 LaSalle, Ottawa, 8:00 p.m. With Mike Stricker, Jonah Jurkens, Maggie Miller, Dave Yates.
Louie Anderson at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 8:00 p.m.
“Christmas Bingo: It’s a Ho-Ho Holy Night” at Royal George Theater, 1641 N. Halsted, 8:00 p.m. The latest comedy from playwright Vicki Quade (Late Night Catechism). Audience members will play Bingo, compete at Christmas trivia and win prizes. Lots of Catholic humor, but Catholicism not required. Open run. Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m.
“Soul Brother, Where Art Thou?” at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 8:00 p.m., 11:00 p.m. The Second City e.t.c.’s 39th Revue.
“Dreaming of a WIP Christmas” at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 8:00 p.m. Christmas music, comedy and sketch for all ages.
Deon Cole at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m. From Conan and ABC’s hit show, Black-ish.
Andy Andrist at @North Bar, 1637 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. One of the original members of Doug Stanhope’s group, The Unbookables. Bold comedy. No boundaries.
“Lincoln Lodge Showcase” at Subterranean, 2011 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. “The show’s mission is to showcase Chicago’s finest up-and-coming and touring comedians.” Featuring Lara Beitz, Futureschlock, Puterbaugh Sisters.
“Chicago’s Best Stand Up” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 8:00 p.m. This week’s line up: Abi Sanchez, Matty Ryan, Candy Lawrence, Calvin Evans, Kellye Howard and more TBA.
“Stir-Friday Night!” at The Revival, 1160 E. 55th St., 8:00 p.m. “An Asian American comedy party!” This Chicago-based Asian-American comedy ensemble tours nationally. Alumni include Danny Pudi from Community and Steven Yeun from The Walking Dead. “Stir-Friday Night” also has a show at Under The Gun Theater on Sunday.
“It’s A Wonderful Santaland Miracle Nut-Cracking Christmas Story … Jews Welcome” at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont, 8:15 p.m. Directed by Brian Posen, with choreography by Matter Dance Company, this is an all holiday and all ages show.”
Kevin Bozeman At Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. One of my favorite Zanies regulars.
Kelly Kelz at Jokes and Notes, 4641 S. King Dr., 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. Featuring Ben Noble. Host: Baldhead Phillips.
“Holiday Hangover” at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport, 9:00 p.m. Stories and songs covering everything about the holidays: the good, the bad, the unspeakable.
“Improv Genius” at The Revival, 1160 E. 55th St., 9:30 p.m. Top improvisers from around the country.
“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.
“Chicago’s Best Stand Up” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 10:00 p.m. The late show’s line-up: Felonious Munk, Sean White, Brian ‘Da Wildcat’ Smith and more TBA.
Joey Villagomez at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 10:00 p.m. Joey Villagomez was featured on Paul Rodriguez’s Latin Kings of Comedy and on HBO’s Habla and Habla Mas en Chicago.
“The Blue Show” at Comedy Sportz, 929 W. Belmont, 10:00 p.m. Improv teams compete based on your suggestions. Unlike CSz shows earlier in the evening, this show is not appropriate for all ages and anything goes.
“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: “Fool Me Twice, Déjà Vu” at The Second City, 1616 N. Wells, 11:00 p.m. This show just got an excellent review from The Chicago Tribune’s Chris Jones. Directed by Jeff-award winning Director Ryan Bernier. Tonight’s 8:00 p.m. show is sold out.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12
“Greatest Story Never Told” at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport, 11:00 a.m. “The audience members … help create: THE GREATEST STORY NEVER TOLD!! Every original performance is adapted by a professional writer and artist. Our design team turns the one time performance into a digital & physical storybook the audience may purchase and keep forever. Show starts at 11:00 am, doors open at 10:30am. Join us for pre-show activities including: arts & crafts, board games, dress-up clothes, coffee drinking and more! This is an ALL AGES SHOW. Children not yet 2y.o. get in FREE.”
“Paper Machete” at Green Mill Jazz Club, 4802 N. Broadway, 3:00 p.m. This fabulous weekly spoken-word showcase features comedians, actors and writers. Lots of famous names, but you don’t have to be famous to participate. Check web site for more info and for line-up.
Home Alone at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Hall, 220 S. Michigan Ave., 3:00 p.m. The classic holiday film accompanied by John Williams’ score live.
“It’s A Wonderful Santaland Miracle Nut-Cracking Christmas Story … Jews Welcome” at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont, 5:00 p.m. Directed by Brian Posen, with choreography by Matter Dance Company, this is an all holiday and all ages show.”
“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.
Louie Anderson at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:00, 9:15 p.m.
Kevin Bozeman at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 7:00 p.m., 9:00, 11:15 p.m. One of my favorite Zanies regulars.
“104th Mainstage Revue: “Fool Me Twice, Déjà Vu” at The Second City, 1616 N. Wells, 7:00 p.m. This show just got an excellent review from The Chicago Tribune’s Chris Jones. Directed by Jeff-award winning Director Ryan Bernier. Shows throughout the week.
“The Two-Hour Comedy Hour” at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley, 7:00 p.m.
“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.”
“Dreaming of a WIP Christmas” at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 8:00 p.m. Christmas music, comedy and sketch for all ages.
“Comedians You Should Know” at The Comedy Shrine, 4034 Fox Valley Center Drive, Aurora, 8:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m. CYSK is in Aurora every second Saturday of the month.
“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!
“It’s Christmas, Goddamnit” at The Annoyance Theatre, 951 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. Terrible behavior and family dysfunction can make the holidays hilarious (when it’s not your family).
Deon Cole at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m. From Conan and also ABC’s hit show, Black-ish.
“Process: the Holiday Production” at CIC Theater, 1422 W. Irving Park Rd., 8:00 p.m. What goes into all these holiday-themed plays? This improvised production takes you from auditions to curtain call.
“Soul Brother, Where Art Thou?” at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 8:00 p.m., 11:00 p.m. The Second City e.t.c.’s 39th Revue.
Lisa Lampanelli at The Venue at Horseshoe Casino, 777 Casino Center Drive, Hammond, IN, 8:00 p.m.
Kelly Kelz at Jokes and Notes, 4641 S. King Dr., 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. Featuring Ben Noble. Host: Baldhead Phillips.
“The Yeah Buddy Awesome Time Comedy Show” at Brainstorm Comics, 1579 N. Milwaukee, 8:30 p.m. Free showcase (donations accepted). The Third Annual YBAT Holiday Pageant features Rebecca O’Neal, Keith Paesel, Geoffrey Asmus, Josh Ballew, Gena Gephart, Phoebe Perry. Hosted by Jason Melton.
“Based on a True Story with Matt Walsh” 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.” This week Matt Walsh is on live video from L.A. Matt is originally from Chicago. He is a founding member of the Upright Citizens Brigade. His credits also include Ted, The Hangover, Due Date, Comedy Bang! Bang!, Brooklyn Ninety-Nine and the upcoming Ghostbusters movie.
Hannibal Buress at Jewish United Fund’s Annual Fundraising Event at the Sheraton Chicago, 301 E. North Water St., 9:00 p.m. Please check web site for ticket reservations.
“Double Feature” at The Revival, 1160 E. 55th St., 9:30 p.m. TJ Jagodowski improvises with Billy Bungeroth followed by more of Chicago’s great improvisers who’ll compose an improvised musical.
Joey Villagomez at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 10:00 p.m. Joey Villagomez was featured on Paul Rodriguez’s Latin Kings of Comedy and on HBO’s Habla and Habla Mas en Chicago.
“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.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13
“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 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 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
Home Alone at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Hall, 220 S. Michigan Ave., 3:00 p.m. The classic holiday film with live musical accompaniment of the John Williams score.
The Annoyance Christmas Pageant at The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont, 3:00 p.m. Charlie Brown and Rudolph mash-up. Childhood friends a little different than you remember them.
“It’s A Wonderful Santaland Miracle Nut-Cracking Christmas Story … Jews Welcome” at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont, 3:15 p.m. Directed by Brian Posen, with choreography by Matter Dance Company, this is an all holiday and all ages show.”
Louie Anderson at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:00 p.m.
“Bust-A-Gut Sundays” at Flavor Brunch, 17575 S. Kedzie, Hazelcrest, 7:00 p.m. Tony Sco, of 106.3 and Windy City Live, just announced that he’ll be hosting this comedy showcase every Sunday. One of my favorite things is when Windy City Live starts and Tony Sco is co-hosting.
The Riff’s “Holiday Pahtyin’ with Ladies I Love” at The High Hat Club, 1920 W. Irving Park Rd., 7:00 p.m. Featuring Life of the Party, Episode 2 and its star, Shanna Shrum. Special edition of The Riff open mic with Elizabeth Gomez and musical guests Plucky Rosenthal and Valentine.
“Tuxedo Cat Comedy” at Innertown Pub, 1935 W. Thomas St., 7:00 p.m. Free showcase, but donations are appreciated and go to the performers. Produced by Sean White, Rebecca Fass, David Philips and Jerry Tran.
“#Date Me: An OK Cupid Experiment” at UP Comedy Club, 1616 N. Wells, 7:00 p.m. A comedian experimented with 39 “un-dateable” profiles on a dating site. The results were “shockingly hilarious.”
“Soul Brother, Where Art Thou?” at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 7:00 p.m. The Second City e.t.c.’s 39th Revue.
“Blipsters on Broadway” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 7:00 p.m. An alternative comedy show hosted by The Nightly Show’s Felonious Munk and Dave Helem. Expect anything: music, commentary, comedians touring through who drop in to test stuff out. All possible. The show’s mantra is “If you think you’ve seen this, you haven’t.”
Gary Gulman at SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 7:00 p.m. The New York Times called Gary Gulman “one of the country’s strongest comedians.”
“Twist Your Dickens” at The Goodman Theater, 170 N. Dearborn, 7:30 p.m. This collaboration between Second City and the Goodman is back by popular demand for a second year. Interactive holiday songs and other mayhem based on A Christmas Carol. Written by former Colbert Report writers Peter Gwinn and Bobby Mort. Directed by Second City’s award-winning Matt Hovde.
“Gotta Dance” at Bank of America Theatre, 18 W. Monroe, 7:30 p.m. Pre-Broadway run begins with Georgia Engel and Stefanie Powers. Through January 17. Check site for additional shows throughout the week.
Comedy of Chicago Showcase at Henry’s, 18 W. Hubbard, 8:00 p.m. A showcase curated by comedyofchicago.com
“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.
Deon Cole at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m. From Conan and ABC’s hit show, Black-ish.
Kevin Bozeman at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m.
“Chicago’s Best Stand Up” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 9:00 p.m. Featuring Taneshia Rice, Ken Garr, Xavier Lamont, Rebecca O’Neal, Jeff Arcuri and more TBA.