Visitors to Chicago this week include Lewis Black, Will Durst, Marlena Rodriguez, Sean Patton, Dave Siegel, James Davis, Travis Irvine, Mitchell Potts, Austin Frields and Piff the Magic Dragon.
Ticket alert! These shows are likely to sell out fast:
February 20 and 21: Dick Gregory at The Legacy Event Venue in Chicago. Some discount tickets are available on Goldstar.com.
March 19: Paula Poundstone at The North Shore Center for Performing Arts in Skokie.
Why is the Chicago comedy scene so unique, so unparalleled, prolific, creative and bold? Many deserve credit and several are in the news. On February 13, Elaine May, one of the original Compass/Second City players, will receive the Writers Guild of America’s Laurel Award for Screenwriting. The award honors her entire body of work. Announcing the award, WGA West President Howard Rodman said Elaine May “invented a strain of knowing, painful, ironic humor that quickly became central to what we now think of as comedy.”
This week, Elaine May’s original comedy soulmate Mike Nichols will be honored with his own episode of American Masters. The show airs Friday, January 29, on PBS at 8:00 p.m. CST and was directed by Elaine May. Nichols and May met as students at the University of Chicago and went on to define American improv and comedy with co-greats Paul Sills, Nancy Ponder and Del Close as members of The Compass Players which later became Second City.
A third classic Chicago comedian in the news is Tom Dreesen. During a talk here at The Laugh Factory last week, he announced that Jim Carrey has tapped him as a consultant on the upcoming Showtime series, I’m Dying Up Here. The show is based on the book of the same name by William Knoedelseder about the dark and bright and “golden era of stand-up” that was the 1970’s. Tom Dreesen grew up extremely poor in Harvey, IL and by sheer determination and extraordinary talent became Frank Sinatra’s opening act and in his own right, a legend and star to this day.
Speaking of Chicago comedians, the magazine New City last week published a list of “The Fifty People Who Really Perform for Chicago.” The list included actors, directors, dancers, playwrights and comedians Martin Morrow, Dave Maher, TJ and Dave, and Calvin Evans. This is how impressive the Chicago comedy scene is: you can see every one of these comedians this week. Just check out the calendar below. In addition, of course, there is extraordinary comedy everywhere from folks who also would have fit that list.
Please share this calendar and help spread the word about this treasure we have here. I am astonished that even Chicagoans don’t always know what we’ve got. Back in the day, I was one of those folks who had heard of Second City and Zanies, and they’re landmarks, but didn’t know anything else on the map. It’s because of Dobie Maxwell that I learned (and yes, you can see his show this week, too). Sometimes schedules, responsibilities and circumstances make it hard to get out and see even your own backyard. But it’s like living in a bakery on a diet. It’s a shame if you don’t sample as much as you can when it’s right here and find some favorites and keep an eye out for what’s new and groundbreaking.
So thank you to everyone who makes it possible. Please confirm details before setting out and enjoy the fact that there’s as much comedy as oxygen in Chicago and they’re both equally critical to survival.
MONDAY, JANUARY 25
“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, Mike Bobrinskoy, Thomas Brady and Dave Losso. Tonight Dave Losso hosts Mitchell Potts, Austin Frields, Marlena Rodriguez, Travis Irvine, Kristin Clifford, Kyle Scanlan.
“Camp Pain” at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m. Tim Slagle hosts an evening of political comedy.
“100 Proof Comedy” at Comedy Sportz, 929 W. Belmont, 8:00 p.m. Weekly showcase. Tonight’s headliner is Mike Wiley. Featuring Mike Bobrinskoy, Jessica Besser-Rosenberg, Kaitlyn Grissom, Casey Larwood and Cody Melcher. 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.
Plus your choice of shows at:
The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26
“The Write Club” at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, 7:00 p.m. Award-winning show turns writers into dueling literary gladiators. This week: Simon A. Smith (QUIT) vs. Catharine Savage (FIRED). Kevin Alves (START) vs. Maggie Jenkins (FINISH). Erin Lane (LAUNCH) vs. Jeremy Hornik (CRASH).
“Cocktail Comedy” at House of Blues, 329 N. Dearborn, 7:00 p.m. No cover. Comedy showcase at House of Blues’ VIP lounge, The Foundation Room (4th floor). Presented by comedyofchicago.com
“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.
“Snack Attack Presents Jeff Arcuri and Sour Patch Kids” at Elbo Room, 2871 N. Lincoln, 8:00 p.m. Hosted by Boll Gevirtz. Featuring Rudy Schultz, Rebecca V. O’Neal, Jake McKenzie and headliner Jeff Arcuri. Free show! Free snacks!
“The Tuesday Ten” at Zanies, 5437 Park Place, Rosemont, 8:00 p.m. “A mix of ten headliners, rising stars and surprise guests!”
Will Durst at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m. The renowned political satirist.
“The Incubator” at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted, 8:00 p.m. A weekly improv showcase which “matches up and coming players with up and coming coaches.”
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 called this show “exceptionally funny.” Tuesdays thru Sundays. There’s also an 11:00 p.m. show on Friday and Saturday nights. Note: tickets to the weekend early show sell out days in advance, so reserve your place as soon as you can.
“The Comedy Bowl” at Diversey River Bowl, 2211 W. Diversey, 8:00 p.m. Comedy, trivia games and prizes hosted by Mona Aburmishan. Tonight: Em Brown, Seth Davis, Lem Slaughter and Ai Sha A.
Stephanie Hasz Presents: Comedy Secrets at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont, 9:30 p.m. “The only show where the audience is made to take an oath of secrecy at the beginning, ensuring that whatever is shared at each show will only be known by those in the room. Comedians share stories ranging from screwball comedy to absolute tragedy, but co-hosts Stephanie Hasz & Andy Fleming, as well as a revolving guest panel hilarious comics, are there to prove that TRAGEDY = COMEDY. This is a comedy show celebrating celebrating secrets & sadness.” This month: secrets from Meredith Kachel, Tim McLaughlin and Gena Gephart. Panel discussion with Kelsie Huff and David Philips. Stand-up comedy from David Drake. Hosted by Stephanie Hasz & Andy Fleming.
Plus your choice of shows at:
The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted
The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27
“10xNine” at Uncommon Ground, 3800 N. Clark, 7:00 p.m. “Tenx9 (ten by nine) is a Belfast-originated monthly storytelling night where 9 people have up to ten minutes each to tell a real story from their lives. Hosted by Lauren Huffman & Tom Valenti (creator).” There may be comedy or not, but there will definitely be good story telling.
Will Durst at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 7:30 p.m. With Calvin Evans.
“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. A famous Chicago stand-up showcase visits a famous Chicago comedy corner. The new Revival comedy club is on the block 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.
Dobie Maxwell at Zanies, MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Place, Rosemont, 8:00 p.m. An extraordinarily great comedian and person. He’ll be at Zanies in Rosemont tonight and tomorrow.
“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.
“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 most like to see a mini musical comedy about and it’s done.
“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 and eulogized on Facebook. Through February 24.
“Blind Bet” at The Pony Inn, 1638 W. Belmont, 9:00 p.m. Weekly showcase. Host Jonah Jurkens’ birthday show with Martin Morrow, Tim McLaughlin, Reena Calm, Tom Brady, Adam Burke and a special surprise guest.
James Davis Presents “Urban Dictionary” at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 9:30 p.m. If you feel like you’ll never be fleek, this is the show for you (hello, me). Currently playing at clubs in Hollywood and around the country, it’s at Zanies tonight and Thursday.
TJ and Dave at iO, 1501 N. Kingsbury, 10:30 p.m. World-renowned improv duo, subjects of book and film.
Plus multiple shows at:
The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted
The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont
CIC Theater, 1422 W. Irving Park
THURSDAY, JANUARY 28
Piff The Magic Dragon interview on Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio at your place, 8:30 a.m. Tony Carr and Steve Touhy interview Piff the Magic Dragon, this week’s headliner at the Improv. Follow the link or download the Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio app and they’ll all come to you!
Lewis Black at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, 7:30 p.m. A therapeutic night of angry comedy from the Grammy award winning comedian and author. The show is sold out as of this writing, but check in with the theater because more seats may be released.
Will Durst at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 7:30 p.m. The renowned political satirist. Featuring Calvin Evans.
Piff the Magic Dragon at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:30 p.m. From Season 10 of America’s Got Talent. Described as “Larry David in a dragon suit.”
“Rat Pack Comedy” The Laugh’s Too Loud” at The Holiday Club, 4000 N. Sheridan Rd., 8:00 p.m. Headliner: Ronnie Ray. Featuring: Tim Barnes, Caitlin Checkeroski, David Phillips, Terence Hartnett. Hosted by: Conor Cawley. Music by: Mike McCarthy. Photography by: Sarah Larson.
“I Shit You Not” at The Logan Theatre, 2646 N. Milwaukee at 8:00 p.m. “Come celebrate our last show at The Logan Theatre before we move to Township, hosted by Seth Davis and Michael Sanchez and featuring unbelievable tales from Lee Kepraios, Natalie Jose, Erik Niewiarowski, Kyle Parks, Anthony Bonazzo and Mona Aburmishan!”
Dave Siegel at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m. Dave Siegel has gone from doorman at the Improv to national headliner and to appearances on Good Morning, America, The Joy Behar Show, CNN and Comedy Central. He has featured for Kevin Nealon, Tim Meadows and Richard Lewis.
“Stand Up Stand Up” at The Crocodile, 1540 N. Milwaukee Ave., 8:00 p.m. Free show. Free pizza with drink purchase. Weekly comedy showcase acclaimed by Splitsider.com and The Chicago Tribune. Tonight: Marlena Rodriguez, Nate Simmons, Allison Dunne, Dan Drees, Keith Paesel and a super secret special guest. Hosted by Mikey Manker. Marlena Rodriguez is originally a Chicago comedian who now lives in New York and is a writer for Unbreakble Kimmy Schmidt.
“Still Not Friday” at Two Brothers Roundhouse, 205 N. Broadway, Aurora, 8:00 p.m. Comedy showcase. Alec Stein hosts Felonious Munk, Ricky March and Zach Peterson.
Dobie Maxwell at Zanies, MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Place, Rosemont, 8:00 p.m. One of the greats.
Sean Patton at UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. Sean Patton has appeared on Inside Amy Schumer, Maron, The Meltdown with Jonah and Kumail, on late night with Conan and Jimmy Kimmel and comedy festivals throughout the world. Featuring Kristen Toomey.
“You’re Welcome” at Jokes and Notes, 4641 S. King Dr., 8:30 p.m. Stand-up showcase every 4th Thursday hosted by Dave Helem and Eli Hamilton. Mix and mingle 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
“Just Dickin’ Around” at Hydrate, 3458 N. Halsted, 8:30 p.m. This all-genders showcase is “a women-run, queer-friendly showcase that provides a safe, supportive space with a positive energy for our performers and guests.” Free pizza, too.
“Hound Dog Comedy” at 240 Lounge, 3948 W. Lawrence, 8:30 p.m.
“Off Off Campus” at The Revival, 1160 E. 55th St., 8:30 p.m. Off Off Campus is the University of Chicago’s improv/sketch troupe, the second oldest student improv troupe in the country (since 1986).
“Comedians You Should Know” presents Will Miles Album Recording at Timothy O’Toole’s, 622 N. Fairbanks Ct., 9:00 p.m. Hosted by Martin Morrow and featuring Rebecca O’Neal. Show tomorrow night, too.
“Parlour Car” at Bar DeVille, 701 N. Damen, 9:00 p.m. Chicago’s talented comedians plus unexpected guests from around the country. New City named Parlour Car “Best Comedy Night” of 2015.
James Davis Presents “Urban Dictionary” at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 9:30 p.m. If you feel like you’ll never be fleek, this is the show for you (hello, me). Currently playing at clubs in Hollywood and around the country.
“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.
“Issues!” with Dale McPeek at Crossroads Public House, 2630 N. Clark, 10:00 p.m. A free comedy showcase about the issues we all have. Headliner: Dale McPeek. Featuring Tyler Snodgrass. With Danii Galegos and special guest Suze Bischoff.
“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. I’m pretty sure at split second’s notice Susan Messing can channel every personality in creation. Magical, inspiring, dangerous, extremely fun evening you can’t have anywhere else. Makes you think about all the infinite possibilities we (just may) have within us. Tonight’s friend is Joe Bill.
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
Comedy Sportz Theatre, 929 W. Belmont
FRIDAY, JANUARY 29
“Fillet of Solo” Festival at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. The third and final weekend of this comedy and storytelling festival. It begins with the kates at 7:00 p.m. followed by a “Friday Night Sampler” of storytelling at 8:30 p.m.
FREE “Art of Slow Comedy Taster Workshop” at Green Shirt Studio, 4407 N. Clark, 8:00 p.m. Unique opportunity to take Jimmy Carrane’s improv workshop. Jimmy is a nationally renowned improviser, author and instructor and the creator and host of Improv Nerd, which you’ve seen listed here. If you’ve ever thought about taking an improv class from one of Chicago’s iconic talents (whoa and for free), this is your chance.
Dave Siegel at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 8:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m. Dave Siegel has gone from doorman at the Improv to national headliner and to appearances on Good Morning, America, The Joy Behar Show, CNN and Comedy Central. He has featured for Kevin Nealon, Tim Meadows and Richard Lewis.
Sean Patton at UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Sean Patton has appeared on Inside Amy Schumer, Maron, The Meltdown with Jonah and Kumail, on late night with Conan and Jimmy Kimmel and comedy festivals throughout the world. Featuring Kristen Toomey.
Piff the Magic Dragon at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 8:00 p.m., 10:15 p.m. From Season 10 of America’s Got Talent. Described as “Larry David in a dragon suit.”
James Davis at Zanies, 5437 Park Place, Rosemont, 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. From Funny or Die and Chelsea Lately, among many other credits.
Long form improv show at The Comedy Clubhouse, 1462 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.
Will Durst at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. Renowned political satirist.
“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.”
“Chicago’s Best Stand Up” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 8:00 p.m. Featuring Nate Burrows, Chris Bader, Andy Fleming, Taneshia Rice, Felonious Munk, Gwen La Roka and more TBA.
Ben Hamilton and Comedian Roy at Jokes and Notes, 4641 S. King Dr., 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m.
“Comedians You Should Know” presents Will Miles Album Recording at Timothy O’Toole’s, 622 N. Fairbanks Ct., 9:00 p.m. Hosted by Martin Morrow and featuring Rebecca O’Neal. Show tomorrow night, too.
“Hoo Ha Galentine’s Day” at The White Room, 1907 N. Mendell, 9:00 p.m. Gals’ night out with host Meredith Kachel. Featuring Ali Clayton (Hoo HA), Adam Burke (Wiggle Room), Marlena Rodriguez (Writer for “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”), Danny Kallas (Comedians You Should Know), Sean Flannery (The Comedy Bar, Blackout Diaries). Music by Plucky Rosenthal. Brought to you by New Belgium, including gift baskets and friendship bracelets. Reserve your tickets by emailing hoohatickets@gmail.com.
Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio LIVE at Crosstown Pub & Grill, 1890 Mill St., Batavia, 9:00 p.m. Headliner: Marty DeRosa, Hosted by Deanna Ortiz with Mike Wiley and a special guest to be announced. The show will be recorded and broadcast on Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio.
Mike Maxwell at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 10:00 p.m. Mike is a comedian, a featured columnist for the Chicago Tribune’s Red Eye and a regular on WGN radio.
“Los Improviachis” at The Revival, 1160 E. 55th St., 10:00 p.m. Improv, dance and music.
“Chicago’s Best Stand Up” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 10:00 p.m. Featuring Abi Sanchez, Ramon Rivas, Caitlin Checkeroski, Miguel Dalmau, Emily Galati, Marty DeRosa and more TBA.
“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 the great Wayne Brady. There’s also a full band at every performance. New City called it Chicago’s “best atmosphere for musical comedy” of 2015.
“A Big Bright Beautiful Disaster” at Second City’s Beat Lounge, 1608 N. Wells, 10:30 p.m. Jake Farrington and Michelle Davey with a comedic take on “fear, choice and owning oneself amidst chaos.” Directed by Andel Sudik. Through February 19th.
Plus your choice of 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
The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway
MCL Theater, 3110 N. Sheffield
Comedy Sportz Theatre, 929 W. Belmont
SATURDAY, JANUARY 30
“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 (announced on Paper Machete site). Arrive early – seats get taken very fast and then it’s standing room only!
“Fillet of Solo” Festival at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Shows from 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. The comedy and storytelling festival continues with a delicious-looking line-up.
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.
“Simmer Brown” at Bughouse Theater, 1910 W. Irving Park Rd., 7:00 p.m. Tickets for Simmer Brown showcases sell out fast, so get your tickets early! Tickets are $10 online, $15 at the door. This month’s line up: Joey Villagomez (HBO Latino, Laugh Factory), Emily Galati (Last Comic Standing, Laughs), Special Guest: Joel Boyd (Second City TourCo, Martin Luther Kings of Comedy), and more TBA.
The show will also feature performances from SIMMER BROWN producers: Prateek Srivastava (NBC Stand Up For Diversity Finalist, Opened for Maz Jobrani, NPR), Sameena Mustafa (Asian American Comedy Fest), Rishika Murthy (Jukebox Comedy Club).
Piff the Magic Dragon at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 7:00, 9:15 p.m. From Season 10 of America’s Got Talent. Described as “Larry David in a dragon suit.” As of this writing, both of tonight’s shows are sold out.
Will Durst at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 7:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. The renowned political satirist.
James Davis at Zanies, 5437 Park Place, Rosemont, 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. From Funny or Die and Chelsea Lately.
The Two-Hour Comedy Hour at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley, 7:00 p.m. Free showcase. “A WHOLE lot of reasons not to miss Two-Hour this Saturday: KATIE MCVAY RETURNS to host with Deanna! Special guest Marlena Rodriguez (Chicago alum turned UNBREAKABLE KIMMY SCHMIDT writer)! Rapping violinist Lil Sharp (was just on SNL with Chance the Rapper!) Plus Tim McLaughlin, David Drake, Shannon Noll, Paul Farahvar, and J. Michael Osborne!”
Dave Siegel at The Comedy Bar, 500 N. LaSalle, 7:30 p.m., 9:30 p.m. Dave Siegel has gone from doorman at the Improv to national headliner and to appearances on Good Morning, America, The Joy Behar Show, CNN and Comedy Central. He has featured for Kevin Nealon, Tim Meadows and Richard Lewis.
Sean Patton at UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Sean Patton has appeared on Inside Amy Schumer, Maron, The Meltdown with Jonah and Kumail, on late night with Conan and Jimmy Kimmel and comedy festivals throughout the world. Featuring Kristen Toomey.
“The Revival Hour” at The Revival, 1160 E. 55th St., 8:00 p.m. An hour of improv on the same corner where The Compass Players got their start.
[LAST PERFORMANCE!] “Hey Laaady” at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 8:00 p .m. A tribute to Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis.
Long form improv show at The Comedy Clubhouse, 1462 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. Tonight is hosted by the very funny women of Hoo Ha Comedy. 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!
“Actual Murderers” at North Bar, 1637 W. North Ave., 8:30 p.m. Sketch comedy by Actual Murderers.
Ben Hamilton and Comedian Roy at Jokes and Notes, 4641 S. King Dr., 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m.
Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio at 12 Handles Ale House, 1827 Knapp Rd., Crest Hill, 9:00 p.m. Details to be announced.
Mike Maxwell at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 10:00 p.m. Mike is a comedian, a featured columnist for the Chicago Tribune’s Red Eye and a regular on WGN radio.
“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 each of these theaters:
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 31
[LAST PERFORMANCE OF 4-YEAR RUN! GRAND FINALE!] Sunday Morning Stories and The Sunday Morning Open Mic Present: Our Final Curtain at Second City, 1608 N. Wells, 10:00 a.m. This free blockbuster event features the shows’ hosts: Adam Bowman, Allen Green, Becca Brown, Billy Sullivan, David Slattery, Glenn Earich, James Knowles, Justin Flowers, Kevin D’Ambrosio, Lauren Huffman, Ranjit Souri, Valerie Jencks.
Soaring Eagle Academy Presents “Cabin Fever Comedy” at The Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 3:00 p.m. A benefit for this therapeutic day school which serves kids with autism. The show stars Rocky LaPorte, the Chicago comedian who was a finalist on Last Comic Standing in 2014.
“Fillet of Solo” Festival at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Shows from 4:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. The comedy and storytelling festival concludes with a performance by Tekki Lomnicki followed by the Sweat Girls.
Chicago’s Comedy Scene Radio at Kuchie’s Bar and Grill, 1356 Houbolt Rd., Joliet, 6:00 p.m. Dinner and a show. Headliner: Mark Johnson. With Melissa Richelle, Cameron Richard and Marcos.
“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 I see Tony Sco co-hosting.
“Tuxedo Cat Comedy” at 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.
“Blipsters on Broadway” at The Laugh Factory, 3175 N. Broadway, 7:00 p.m. An alternative comedy show hosted by Dave Helem and The Nightly Show’s Felonious Munk. 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.”
“TSTMRKT Presents DVDA” at WIP Theater, 6670 N. Northwest Highway, 7:00 p.m. A show from the Las Vegas-based avant garde comedy troupe.
“Broad Squad Presents Rebecca O’Neal and La Femme Fatale (Debut Show)” at Skylark, 2149 S. Halsted, 8:00 p.m. “We pay homage to the tempting treacherous that is the ~Femme Fatale~. This show is oozing with deadly enchantment, a never-ending supply of alibis and one-too-many cigarette holders. Headliner: Rebecca V. O’Neal. Host: Ruthie Lichtenstein. Featuring: Prateek Srivastava, Sam Gordon, Cleveland Anderson, Ju Lee Anna, Claire Friedman.
Will Durst at Zanies, 1548 N. Wells, 8:30 p.m.
Plus your choice of shows at these theaters:
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
I’d love to have you as a subscriber. Please type your email address in the box and click the “create subscription” button. My list is completely spam, spam, spam, spam free, and you can opt out at any time.