The sixth edition of this annual celebration of the art of improvisational comedy brings together performers from around the U.S. and from our allies abroad–think of it as a coalition of the comically willing. (Chicago, of course, is heavily represented.) This year’s festival, the largest yet, is divided into several series–Mainstage, Showcase, Sketch, Solo, Duo, and Fringe–as well as an all-night improv session, an adult-oriented “Blue” show, a series of daytime Lunchbreak performances (presented in conjunction with the city’s cultural affairs department), and numerous special events, including forums and workshops. The Chicago Improv Festival runs May 11-18, with events at seven principal venues: the Athenaeum Theatre (main stage and second-floor studio), 2936 N. Southport; ImprovOlympic, 3541 N. Clark; WNEP Theater, 3209 N. Halsted; the Playground, 3341 N. Lincoln; Noble Fool Theater, 16 W. Randolph; Frankie J’s on Broadway, 4437 N. Broadway; and Crush (formerly Coyle’s Tippling House), 2843 N. Halsted. Auxiliary events take place at the Chicago Cultural Center (Randolph Cafe, Claudia Cassidy Theater, and studio theater), 78 E. Washington; the Second City, Donny’s Skybox Studio, Piper’s Alley, 1608 N. Wells (fourth floor); ComedySportz, 2851 N. Halsted; and Martyr’s, 3855 N. Lincoln. Tickets to shows at the Athenaeum can be purchased through Ticketmaster (312-902-1500 or www.ticketmaster.com) or at the Athenaeum box office; tickets to events at the other venues must be picked up at the box office on the day of the show. For general festival information, call 773-235-8070 or visit www.cif.com.
Best of Chicago voting is live now. Vote for your favorites »
MONDAY, MAY 12
Weekday Evening Workshops
The Improv Bandits
See listing for Monday, May 12, 5:30 PM. Tuesday’s teacher is Jeff Griggs. Frankie J’s on Broadway, 5:30 PM. $20.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14
