Since 1959, The Second City has established itself as a Chicago landmark and a national treasure. The theatre that launched the careers of such comic greats as John Belushi, Mike Myers, Bill Murray, Gilda Radner, and more offers nightly comedy shows, as well as a variety of other programs and services. I was fortunate enough to catch Chris Farley before he hit it big.
The theatre has two resident stages: The Second City Mainstage, which seats 340 and The Second City e.t.c., which seats 180. Each theatre has a resident troupe that writes and performs an original comedy revue. The shows are smart, funny, and highly original. The Second City Training Center operates a third theatre in the Piper's Alley complex on Wells Street called Donny's Skybox Studio Theatre. Donny's Skybox features an eclectic mix of student productions as well as other alternative shows.
The Second City also has touring troupes that take our shows on the road, a Training Center that teaches improvisation, acting, writing, and other skills, and a corporate communications division that services the business world.
Learn improvisation exercises and techniques from Michael Gellman, Norm Holly, Keegan-Michael Key, Susan Messing, Mick Napier and Ron West July 5, when the Second City Training Center presents "Improv Masters," a free-form discussion and demonstration hosted by Anne Libera, at the Second City e.t.c.
Second City
1616 N. Wells St (just north of North Ave)
312-337-3992;
http://www.secondcity.com