Chicago comedy is God’s way of apologizing for the weather. How else do you explain this combination of sub-zero temps with hundreds of reasons to go out in it? This week is especially hot with original shows that will lift your spirit. There’s a dog-centric comedy showcase where you can bring your melon collie; yes, you are encouraged to bring your BFF (Best Friend Fido).
At another showcase, comedians will actually swap sets and see what happens when they take on each other’s material. If the cold is really slamming your mood and you hate going out looking like a terrorist Michelin Man, drop in on “With Our Compliments,” an interactive show where comedians will un-bleak your heart and kill with compliments.
As always, there are star-studded stand up showcases and sketch and improv shows every night of the week featuring Chicago’s world-renowned talent.
Note about that: go see the Puterbaugh Sisters! Last chance to see them before they leave for L.A.!
Visitors to town this week include, Ben Roy, Justin Willman, Chingo Bling, The Capitol Steps, Orny Adams, Kate Berlant with John Early, Cleatis Allen, Jr., William Shatner and Cedric ‘The Entertainer’, Eddie Griffin, D.L. Hughley, George Lopez and Charlie Murphy all appearing together in one night.
Thank you to the Chicago comedy community. At least while I’m working on this, I’ve forgotten that outside it’s gone from El Nino to helllllll noooooooo noooooooooo.
Please confirm show times and locations, especially in this weather.
As always, if you’ve got a show you would like me to add, please email me at temewring@gmail.com.
MONDAY, JANUARY 18
“Essay Fiesta” at The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N Lincoln Ave, 7:00 p.m. This is where we got a parking ticket on my birthday. It was 100% worth it.
“Related” at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont, 7:30 p.m. “A collection of scenes, songs, and moments that explores how the people you love the most are the same ones who can push you to your breaking point.” Mondays thru January 25.
[VERY LAST CHICAGO SHOWS!!!] “Entertaining Julia” with The Puterbaugh Sisters at UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. “The Puterbaugh Sisters are bringing back Entertaining Julia one last time before they move out West. Entertaining Julia has been a Chicago comedy staple for seven years and has been featured at Meltdown Comics in LA, Crom Comedy Festival (Omaha), The Comedy Expo (Chicago), “Best Bars in America” on Esquire network and now, it’s going on a summer vacation. The Puterbaugh Sisters will be bringing you some of Chicago’s best goofers, musicians and a good old fashioned party show. Will there be witches doing stand up? Will there be Disney Princesses? Will there be Chicago comics, possibly in wigs? Yes, yes of course.”
Full Lineup: The Puterbaugh Sisters, Farty Marty aka Martin Morrow, Bobby Minelli, Natalie Grace Alford, The Opera Impresario Chris Hauser, Adam Burke, CJ Sullivan.
“Sadsacks and Wisecracks” at High Hat Club, 1920 W. Irving Park Rd., 8:00 p.m. Weekly comedy showcase hosted by Natalie Jose.
“Louder Than A Mom” at Martyrs, 3855 N. Lincoln, 8:00 p.m. Storytelling by MT Cozzola, Mark Grapey, Will Klinger, Isabel Liss, Carie Lovstad, Risa McDonell, Brigid Murphy, Brett Paesel on the topic “You Made Your Bed …”
“Best Night Ever” at the GMan Tavern, 3740 N. Clark, 8:00 p.m. Free showcase produced by Mike Cronin, Sam McHale, Mike Bobrinskoy, Thomas Brady, and Dave Losso. Mike Bobrinskoy hosts Tim McLaughlin, Danii Gallegos, Nate Burrows, Kyle Scanlan and Dave Helem. Please check out my interview with Mike Cronin here.
“Female Funnies” At Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m. Hosted by Patti Vasquez.
“100 Proof Comedy” at Comedy Sportz, 929 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. Weekly showcase. Adam Burke headlines. Adam Burke was voted “Best Stand Up” by Chicago Reader readers in 2014 and is a Wait … Wait, Don’t Tell Me panelist. His comedy is cerebral, original, not-to-be-missed and highly addictive. Featuring Lucas O’Neil, with Kahlil Wilson, Brandon Kirkman, Dane Arden, Erin Grotheer. Hosted by Jerry Tran.
“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.
Plus your choice of shows tonight at:
The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted
TUESDAY, JANUARY 19
“Flat Iron Comedy” at The Salon at Collaboraction Theater, 1579 N. Milwaukee, 3rd Floor, 7:30 p.m. Features rotating house and guest improv teams plus stand up, music, storytelling and other artists. Free, but donations are appreciated and go to performers.
“The Tuesday Ten” at Zanies, 5437 Park Place, Rosemont, 8:00 p.m. “A mix of ten headliners, rising stars and surprise guests!”
“Afro-Futurism” at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 8:00 p.m. A new variety show of sketch, stand-up and music. “The vanguard of Chicago’s hippest African-American talent provide the street satire and cultural cosmologies of a city on the brink.” Starring Dave Helem, Shantira Jackson, Aasia Bullock, Dewayne Perkins, Torian Miller, John Thibodeaux , and Felonious Munk. Hosted by Martin Morrow. With special musical guest Mr. GreenWeedz.
Pat Tomasulo at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m. The only morning news sportscaster/stand-up comedian in the world?
“Cocktail Comedy” at House of Blues, 329 N. Dearborn, 8:00 p.m. No cover. Comedy showcase at House of Blues’ VIP lounge, The Foundation Room (4th floor). Presented by comedyofchicago.com
104th Mainstage Revue: “Fool Me Twice, Déjà Vu” at The Second City, 1616 N. Wells, 8:00 p.m. Directed by Jeff-award winning Director Ryan Bernier. The Chicago Tribune’s Chris Jones said this show is “exceptionally funny.” Tuesdays thru Sundays. Note: tickets to the weekend early show sell out days in advance, so reserve your place as soon as you can.
“Chicago Underground Comedy Presents: Puterbaugh Unlimited” at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont, 9:30 p.m. One of your last chances to see the magical Puterbaugh Sisters, Danielle and Tiffany, before they leave for L.A. I spoke with them in 2012 about how they’ve taken their place among comedy’s favorite duos and some of the crazy things that have happened along the way. Interview here. Don’t miss them!
Plus your choice of shows tonight at:
The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted
The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20
“Stupid Smart Comedy” at Geek Bar, 1941 W. North Ave., 7:00 p.m. Free showcase. Hosted by Derek Graff. Featuring Derek Moulds, Jonathan Giles, Rudy Schultz, Sonia Denis, Raymond Holleb. HEADLINER: Sean White who is a MUST-SEE. Sometime I’ll write about how his set turned around an evening for me where I came in feeling really horrible and he had me laughing like crazy all the same. I’ll never forget it. I guarantee tonight’s show. Not that anyone needs me to. Just sayin’ that Sean White’s comedy can transform the night, relieve your burdens and pulverize any bullshit life’s throwing your way.
Justin Willman at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 7:30 p.m. Comedy and magic from the host of Cupcake Wars.
Chingo Bling at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:30 p.m.
“Flat Iron Comedy” at The Salon at Collaboraction Theater, 1579 N. Milwaukee, 3rd Floor, 7:30 p.m. Features rotating house and guest improv teams plus stand up, music, storytelling and other artists. Free, but donations are appreciated and go to performers.
“MINT” at MCL, 3110 N. Sheffield, 7:30 p.m. A weekly showcase of music improv. Some shows will include an end-of-show jam open to audience members.
Lincoln Lodge Showcase at The Revival, 1160 E. 55th St., 7:30 p.m. One of Chicago’s most famous stand-up showcases visits one of Chicago’s most famous comedy corners! The new Revival comedy club is where the Compass Players performed. The Compass Players, of course, gave birth to Second City. Lincoln Lodge has given birth to some of the most famous stand-up comedians in the country and continues to showcase our best along with those traveling through.
“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.
“Surprise Party” at Lilly’s Bar, 2515 N. Lincoln, 8:00 p.m. Free weekly showcase.
“Dave Maher Coma Show” at The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. Dave Maher’s one-man show about what happened when he was in a coma, eulogized on Facebook and all that happened because of it. I missed this show during its first run last fall due, fittingly, to health issues and it’s back by popular demand and I have until February 24 to see it this time and, so help me, I better not miss it again.
“The Craig: A Musical Improv Show” at Comedy Sportz, 929 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. Cast your vote for the Craig’s List item you’d like to see a mini musical comedy about and it’s done.
Pilsen Stand Up: Casa de Leon at Simone’s, 960 W. 18th St., 8:30 p.m. Featuring Mickey Housley, Sydney Adeniyi, Abi Sanchez, Jaime de Leon.
“Comedians You Should Know” at Timothy O’Toole’s, 622 N. Fairbanks Ct., 9:00 p.m. Martin Morrow hosts Marty DeRosa, Ricky Gonzalez, Travis Irvine, Danny Kallas, Kristen Toomey and Mike Wiley.
“Blind Bet” at The Pony Inn, 1638 W. Belmont, 9:00 p.m. Weekly showcase.
“Laughs in the Lounge” at Rogers Park Social, 6920 N. Glenwood, 9:00 p.m. Sarah Gallagher, Elliot Lerner, Rachel McCartney, Christopher Moore, Shanna Shrum with host Marla Depew.
Ben Roy at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 9:30 p.m. Ben Roy is a cast member of Denver’s Grawlix comedy showcase.
Plus multiple shows tonight at:
The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted
The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont
CIC Theater, 1422 W. Irving Park
THURSDAY, JANUARY 21
“Open Bark Night” at 1133 W. Fulton Market, 6:30 p.m. A night of “dog-centric” comedy. Hosted by Patty Vaccarella. “Pups are always welcome but note that this pawty is on leash so pups who are joining should be chill with sitting with their human watching the show.”
“Do Not Submit” at The Sedgwick Stop, 1612 N. Sedgwick, 7:00 p.m. “A series of free open mics around Chicago where people from all walks of life and backgrounds can come together each month to connect through the sharing of personal stories in a safe, supportive environment free from pressure, judgment, or a cover charge. No experience is necessary to participate. All are welcome to speak or simply listen. Everyone has a story to tell, and we want to hear yours.” Hosted by Lauren Huffman and Mac MacDevitt.
The Capitol Steps at The Northshore Center for Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., 7:30 p.m. This DC-based comedy monster of political parody has been featured on every major TV network, they’ve released 34 albums, appear regularly on NPR, have been in business 30 years and make a once-a-year visit here. I can’t imagine what they have to sing and joke about this year. They’re here through Sunday.
Orny Adams at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:30 p.m.
Justin Willman at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 7:30 p.m. Comedy and magic from the host of Cupcake Wars.
Brian Babylon at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m. From Comedy Central, Wait Wait … Don’t Tell Me! and Windy City Live.
“Stand Up Stand Up” 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.
“What the Hipnonics” at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted, 8:00 p.m. Chicago’s hip hop game show.
“Still Not Friday” at Two Brothers Roundhouse, 205 N. Broadway, Aurora, 8:00 p.m. Free showcase. Matt Drufke hosts Angela Vela, Bobby Hill and Jordan Holmes. Reserve your seat early. Crowds have been standing room only.
“At Least I Came: A Set Swap Showcase” at Phyllis’ Musical Inn, 1800 W. Division, 8:00 p.m. Comedians bring “their best material (in list form!) and giving it away to be attempted by somebody else. Who is swapping sets with who? They don’t even know yet! This will be very fun, or maybe terrible, but at the end of it everyone will be able to say, ‘at least I came.’”
Featuring swapped-sets by: Dave Losso, Sammy Arechar, Liz Ziner, and Joe McMahon. Featuring: Kal Spaeth and Keith Paesel. Hosted by Scott Meyer and Mike O’Keefe.
“Prohibition Fortnight” at Comedy Sportz Theater, 929 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. “On January 16, 1919 Prohibition was signed into law – ushering in an era of gangsters, bootleggers, and scoundrels that have influenced our nation’s culture … Join us January 14-16 and 21-23, 2016 as we transform CSz Theater Chicago into a 1920s speakeasy, complete with custom drink specials, photo opportunities, code words, bootleggers, and the Downtown Chicago Bosses to show you the true meaning of “Prohibition.” Performances: Thursdays and Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 6pm, 8pm and 10pm on January 14-16 and 21-23. Every night will feature something special, including spirit tastings, a full size craps gambling table (charity rules), and the Chi-Town Hotshots playing authentic 20’s style jazz.”
“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.” Free showcase and free pizza.
“Handsome Naked” at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont, 8:30 p.m. Handsome Naked are hip hop rappers and comedians Eric Oren, Chucho Perez and Brad Kemp.
“Red Level Entertainment” at Jokes and Notes, 4641 S. King Dr., 8:30 p.m. Funny 3rd Thursday is hosted each month by T Murph. T Murph has appeared on Key & Peele and BET’s ComicView.
“Hound Dog Comedy” at 240 Lounge, 3948 W. Lawrence, 8:30 p.m.
“Parlour Car” at Bar DeVille, 701 N. Damen, 9:00 p.m. Chicago’s talented comedians plus unexpected guests from around the country.
Ben Roy at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 9:30 p.m. Ben Roy is a cast member of Denver’s Grawlix comedy showcase.
“Transparent” with Kellye Howard at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 9:30 p.m. Kellye Howard has appeared on Last Comic Standing, NickMom Night Out and Wanda Sykes Presents Herlarious. She was also one of the stars of the OWN Network’s My Life is a Joke. Her one-woman shows have had wonderful reviews, so here’s a chance to see another hit.
“With Our Compliments” at iO, 1501 N. Kingsbury, 10:00 p.m. “A one-night-only interactive showcase of Chicago’s sharpest comedians using their powers for nice. Martin Morrow, Kelsie Huff, Marty DeRosa, Ali Clayton and Kristen Toomey offer a sweet reprieve from the winter bummers with laughs, praise, and silver linings for the audience, hosted by Josh Ballew, Tom Wisdom, and hot cocoa. Have the best time possible during the worst time of year! Wear an outfit you want compliments on! Come find out what a great job you’re doing! Only $5!”
“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. Tonight’s friend is Jo Scott.
Plus multiple shows tonight at:
The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted
The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont
CIC Theater, 1422 W. Irving Park
Under The Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport
The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway
MCL Theater, 3110 N. Sheffield
FRIDAY, JANUARY 22
Orny Adams Interview on Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio wherever you are at 8:50 a.m. Tony Carr and Steve Touhy interview Orny Adams who appears at the Improv this weekend. See below for details. Click here or download the Chicago’s Comedy Radio Scene App and the interview will come to you!
“Laugh Near Minimalist Furniture: A Comedy Variety Show” at Leo Burnett, 35 W. Wacker Dr., 21st Floor, 6:30 p.m. Happy Hour at 6:30 p.m. (BYOB). Show at 7:00 p.m. Stand-up from Vik Pandya, Meghana Indurti, Tyler Fowler,Danny Kirschner, Drew Korb and Sarah Collier with headliners Greg Bach and Prateek Srivastava. Sketch from Carly Alice, Maureen Mahoney, and more. Improv from I’m A Turtle? and Creamy Barracuda. Musical guest DosLambos.
Fillet of Solo Festival at various venues, shows 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Tonight: the kates! Check out the full schedule here.
The Capitol Steps at The Northshore Center for Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., 8:00 p.m.
“Congrats on Your Success Presents Sonia Denis” at Cole’s Bar, 2338 N. Milwaukee, 8:00 p.m. Free showcase. Rebecca O’Neal hosts Charlie Rohrer, Bill Bullock, Justin Covington, Odinaka Ezeokoli with an extended headlining set from Sonia Denis.
Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio Live at Crazy Pour, 105 E. North Ave., Villa Park, 8:00 p.m. With Marty DeRosa, Jordan Holmes and Jack Baker.
“Hey: An Evening with Kate Berlant and John Early” at UP Comedy Club., 230 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Two of New York’s most original and prolific comedians.
Orny Adams at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 8:00 p.m., 10:15 p.m.
Long form improv show at The Comedy Clubhouse, 1642 N. Ashland, 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. One audience suggestion each for three teams followed by three performances. What is long form improv? “The product is usually a piece that has realism and comedy and takes the audience through a roller coaster of emotions and laughter until they find themselves cleverly at the beginning.”
“Hey Laaady” at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 8:00 p .m. A tribute to Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis every Friday and Saturday in January.
“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.
“Prohibition Fortnight” at Comedy Sportz Theater, 929 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. “On January 16, 1919 Prohibition was signed into law – ushering in an era of gangsters, bootleggers, and scoundrels that have influenced our nation’s culture … Join us January 14-16 and 21-23, 2016 as we transform CSz Theater Chicago into a 1920s speakeasy, complete with custom drink specials, photo opportunities, code words, bootleggers, and the Downtown Chicago Bosses to show you the true meaning of “Prohibition.” Performances: Thursdays and Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 6pm, 8pm and 10pm on January 14-16 and 21-23. Every night will feature something special, including spirit tastings, a full size craps gambling table (charity rules), and the Chi-Town Hotshots playing authentic 20’s style jazz.”
Brian Babylon 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. “The show’s mission is to showcase Chicago’s finest up-and-coming and touring comedians and past performers include Amy Schumer, Hannibal Burress, Fred Armisen, T.J. Miller, Marc Maron, Janeane Garofalo, Natasha Leggero and Kristen Schaal.” Tonight Danny Drees, Danny Maupin, Danny Kallas.
Cleatis Allen, Jr. and Mike Samp at Jokes and Notes, 4641 S. King Dr., 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. Hosted by Tony Sco.
Ben Roy at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Ben Roy is a cast member of Denver’s Grawlix comedy showcase.
“The Boys We Make It Worse” at Second City, 1616 N. Wells, 9:00 p.m. Rachael Mason and Susan Messing improvise with Norm Holly, Ryan Archibald and Craig Uhlir.
“Prime Time Nine” at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 10:00 p.m. Timothy Whitzell hosts Prateek Srivastava, Melissa Richelle, Oscar Carvajal, David Sartoris, Nick Dlouhy, Danii Gallegos, Chris Damen, Charles Belt, and headliner Ed Towns.
“Horrible Fun” at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport, 10:30 p.m. Interactive improv show based on “Cards Against Humanity.” “Be aware this show is dirty, ridiculous, offensive, and horrible. Are you ready to be horrible with us?” Extended through April 1 by popular demand.
“Vamp” at MCL Theater, 3110 N. Sheffield, 10:30 p.m. A BYOB musical comedy drinking show. The VAMP folks say it’s like Whose Line is it Anyway, but everyone gets to be Wayne Brady. There’s also a full band at every performance. New City called it Chicago’s “best atmosphere for musical comedy” of 2015.
Plus multiple shows tonight at:
The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted
The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont
CIC Theater, 1422 W. Irving Park
Under The Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport
MCL Theater, 3110 N. Sheffield
The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway
SATURDAY, JANUARY 23
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. If you would like to audition, be on the look-out for your opportunity at The Mash. Check the web site in the days before the show for line-up.
Fillet of Solo Festival at various venues, shows 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Check out the full schedule here.
The Capitol Steps at The Northshore Center for Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., 5:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m.
“Bust-A-Gut” Comedy Tour at Sabre Room, 8900 W. 95th St., Hickory Hills, 6:00 p.m. With Shang (HBO, BET and Starz), Marvin Hunter, Freeman Brown and Antoine Scott. Hosted by J. Renee.
“Prohibition Fortnight” at Comedy Sportz Theater, 929 W. Belmont, 6:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m. “On January 16, 1919 Prohibition was signed into law – ushering in an era of gangsters, bootleggers, and scoundrels that have influenced our nation’s culture … Join us January 14-16 and 21-23, 2016 as we transform CSz Theater Chicago into a 1920s speakeasy, complete with custom drink specials, photo opportunities, code words, bootleggers, and the Downtown Chicago Bosses to show you the true meaning of “Prohibition.” Performances: Thursdays and Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 6pm, 8pm and 10pm on January 14-16 and 21-23. Every night will feature something special, including spirit tastings, a full size craps gambling table (charity rules), and the Chi-Town Hotshots playing authentic 20’s style jazz.”
Orny Adams at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:00, 9:15 p.m.
Larry Reeb at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 7:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. Three opportunities tonight to see comedy icon “Uncle Lar.”
The Two-Hour Comedy Hour at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley, 7:00 p.m. Comedy showcase. J. Michael Osborne and Andy Fleming host Kelsie Huff, Emily Galati, Keith Paesel, Meredith Kachel, Mike Bobrinskoy, Deanna Ortiz and Seattle’s Evan Morrison.
“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 … who became Second City got their start.
“Hey: An Evening with Kate Berlant and John Early” at UP Comedy Club., 230 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Two of New York’s most original and prolific comedians.
“The Comedy Get Down” at The United Center, 1901 W Madison, 8:00 p.m. “Comedy royalty” is what the United Center’s web site says and it’s true: Cedric ‘The Entertainer’, Eddie Griffin, D.L. Hughley, George Lopez and Charlie Murphy.
Long form improv show at The Comedy Clubhouse, 1642 N. Ashland, 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. One audience suggestion each for three teams followed by three performances. What is long form improv? “The product is usually a piece that has realism and comedy and takes the audience through a roller coaster of emotions and laughter until they find themselves cleverly at the beginning.”
“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!
“Shatner’s World: We Just Live In It” at Rialto Square Theatre, 15 E. Van Buren St., Joliet, 8:00 p.m. William Shatner in person as only William Shatner can deliver him: comedy, music and stories about his singular life. For $ 200 you can also attend a meet-and-greet.
Brian Babylon at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m.
“Hey Laaady” at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 8:00 p .m. A tribute to Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis every Friday and Saturday in January.
“The Yeah Buddy Awesome Time Comedy Show” at Brainstorm Comics, 1579 N. Milwaukee, 8:30 p.m. Free comedy showcase (donations accepted). Hosted by Dave Losso. Featuring Erik Monical, Alex Kumin, Travis Irvine,Corey Courrielche, Zach Boyce, Jonathan Baldizon,Jake Wells and Karl Spaeth. A Time Out Chicago “Critic’s pick.”
Cleatis Allen, Jr. and Mike Samp at Jokes and Notes, 4641 S. King Dr., 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. Hosted by Tony Sco.
The A.V. Club Presents “Bell Hop” with Ian Abramson at Virgin Hotels Chicago, 203 N. Wabash, 9:00 p.m. Featuring Kristen Toomey, ShowYouSuck, David Drake, Joey Villagomez, Fran Hoepfner, Michael Timlin, and Tim Barnes. I haven’t been to this show, but it sounds like an absolute must-see and you’ve got to catch it when former Chicagoan, now NY-based Ian Abramson brings it back home … it doesn’t happen every day. I’ve heard all sorts of legendary stories: performances in elevators, police raids. And did I mention that it’s free?!
Martin Morrow at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 10:00 p.m.
“Vamp” at MCL Theater, 3110 N. Sheffield, 10:30 p.m. A BYOB musical comedy drinking show. The VAMP folks say it’s like Whose Line is it Anyway, but everyone is Wayne Brady. There’s also a full band at every performance. New City called it Chicago’s “best atmosphere for musical comedy” of 2015.
“The Big Sexy Show” at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 11:00 p.m. A new variety show featuring comedy and burlesque produced by Michelle L’amour.
Plus multiple shows at:
The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted
The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont
CIC Theater, 1422 W. Irving Park
Under The Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport
MCL Theater, 3110 N. Sheffield
The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway
SUNDAY, JANUARY 24
[SECOND TO LAST WEEK] “Sunday Morning Stories” at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 10:00 a.m. Don’t miss your last chances to see these excellent storytelling and comedy shows as they conclude their four-year run! 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. Next week: Grand Finale featuring all the hosts!
“Sunday Morning Stories” is followed by …
[SECOND TO LAST WEEK] “The Sunday Morning Open Mic” at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 11:00 a.m. Hosts: Adam Bowman, Kevin D’Ambrosio, Justin Flowers, James Knowles, Val Jencks and creator and executive producer, Sanjit Souri. Technical Director: Zach Stinnet. Next week: Grand Finale featuring all the hosts!
The Capitol Steps at The Northshore Center for Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., 2:00 p.m.
Fillet of Solo Festival at various venues, shows 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Check out the full schedule here.
“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.
“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.”
Chingo Bling at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:00 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.
Fortune Feimster at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 7:30 p.m. From Chelsea Lately.
Plus your choice of shows tonight at:
The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont
CIC Theater, 1422 W. Irving Park