THURSDAY, JANUARY 19
Good Girl/Bad Year at @North Bar, 1637 W. North Ave., 7:00 p.m. Hosted by Lainie Lenertz. Featuring Alex Kumin, Jeff Arcuri and Reena Calm. Stand-up celebrating the most personal and regrettable moments of 2016.
The Capitol Steps at The North Shore Center for Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., 7:30 p.m. Presenting the “What to expect when you’re electing tour.”
Group Improvised Comedy at Comedy Clubhouse, 1462 N. Ashland, 8:00 p.m. Long form improv (20-25 minutes) by three teams of up to 10 improvisers, each based on an audience suggestion. Thursdays through Sundays. Follow link for details, show times and a great explanation of what makes improv an art form like no other.
UPscale Jazz and Stand Up at Second City’s UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave., 8:00 p.m. Music by K&L Duo (Alex Kliner and Packy Lundholm). Hosted by Dave Helem with stand-up by Alex Kumin, Marty DeRosa, Sherman Edwards, Andrew Frees and Felonious Munk.
Just Dickin’ Around All Ladies Showcase at Hydrate, 3458 N. Halsted, 8:30 p.m. Open mic followed by showcase at 9:45. 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 show and free pizza. Tonight is hosted by JDA producer Dina Nina Martinez. Featuring Carma Nibarger, Sameena Mustafa and Angela Vela.
Interview with JDA here!
Messing with a Friend at The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont, 10:30 p.m. This is a show where the improvisers morph from character to character before your eyes. Believable and magical at the same time. A little bit dangerous, too. Anything can happen. Susan Messing was named “Best Improviser” by the Reader and “Improviser of the Year” at the Chicago Improv Festival. This week’s friend is actor, improviser, instructor and Toronto Second City alum Nick Johne.