Merry Christmas from "BuzzKill"

Here's a little holiday goody from the movie BuzzKill. Artist Hans Inglish created a remix and music video for the film's original song, "Black Santa." Check it out below and find out how you can see BuzzKill here.Director: Dennis LatosEditor: Dennis LatosDP: Dennis LatosStarring: Hans InglishProducers: Thoma Kikis & Dennis La...

Read More

Team StarKid's "Airport for Birds" Tickets Now on Sale

Tickets are now on sale for the new show from Team StarKid, presented by The Second City. Please note: We're experiencing high call volume, so we recommend buying online to avoid the wait. Check out their video below and get tickets he...

Read More

The Second City That Never Sleeps: Letters to Santa Starts Tonight

We're gearing up for an all-nighter. "The Second City That Never Sleeps: Letters to Santa" starts tonight (Tues, Dec 18) in The Second City e.t.c. Theater (1608 N. Wells St, 2nd Floor of Piper's Alley) at 6:00p and ends tomorrow night (Wed, Dec. 19) at 6:00p to raise money for Onward Neighborhood House supporting Chicago-area families in need.Tickets are $20.00 and available at the door. If you're out of town, but would still like to watch the event and donate to the cause, we will stream the event for free at GIGITY.TV as well as LETTERSTOSANTACHICAGO.COM.Listed...

Read More

Happy 53rd Anniversary!

Happy 53rd Anniversary!On December 16, we celebrated our 53rd Anniversary! To all the actors, writers, directors, musicians, stage managers, artists, producers, staff and audiences that have contributed to this wonderful community through the years, we say thank y...

Read More

Second City and UP Comedy Club Host New Team StarKid Sketch Show, "Airport for Birds"

Team StarKid, creators of "A Very Potter Musical," "A Very Potter Sequel," and "Holy Musical, B@man" will be debuting a brand new sketch show, "Airport for Birds" at UP Comedy Club starting January 27th, 2013. Here's a preview of what's in the works for the new show. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, December ...

Read More

STRIKE = Day of Laughter for Students!

In light of the anticipated closure of Toronto-area schools on Tuesday December 18, The Second City will open the doors of its Training Centre (70 Peter St., Toronto) for a one-day Youth Improv Camp for students in Grades 1 - 8.The Improv Camp will begin at 9am (drop off begins at 8:30am) and wrap up at 5pm. It will be a fun-filled day in which students will learn and participate in improv games led by experienced instructors, and enjoy a performance by Second City's Education troupe. No prior experience in improv is needed.The Second City Training...

Read More

Second City Alums and Touring Company Members Nominated for Golden Globe and SAG Awards

Congratulations to all the Second City Alums, Touring Company members and former students who earned Golden Globe and SAG Award Nominations!. Here's the listGolden Globes:Bill Murray - Actor in a Leading Role - FilmAlan Arkin - Actor in a Supporting Role - FilmTina Fey - Actress in a Leading Role - TVAmy Poehler - Actress in a Leading Role - TVJulia Louis Dreyfus - Actress in a Leading Role - TVEric Stonestreet - Actor in a Supporting Role - TVSee full Golden Globe Nominee listSAG Awards:Alan Arkin - Ensemble & Actor in a Supporting Role -...

Read More

Second City Communications branded content work featured Globe & Mail

From mattresses to SUVs, see how Second City's corporate division builds brand awareness & online presence for their clients. Globe & Mail released a feature piece on our work; check it out he...

Read More

Congratulations to Writers Guild Award Nominees!

Congratulations to all of our resident and touring company alumni nominated for Writers Guild Award this year! Nominees include Kay Cannon, Paul Dinello, Rebecca Drysdale, Tina Fey, Shelly Gossman, Peter Gwinn, Keegan Michael Key, Joe Kelly, Mike O'Brien, Amy Poehler, Tom Purcell, Ian Roberts, and Brian Stack. The Writers Guild Awards are scheduled for February 17th with simultaneous ceremonies in New York and Los Angeles. Visit splitsider.com for more in...

Read More

Renee Fleming Talks About Second City Collaboration

We know what you're thinking - how on Earth did this collaboration between The Second City and Lyric Opera happen? We've got your answers here. Check out Renee Fleming's take on how we started and where we're going.Check it out for yourself at "The Second City's Guide to the Opera" on Saturday, January 5. Click here for ticke...

Read More

Student Spotlight: Karen Revekant

Andrew Thorp sits down with Karen Revekant, December's 'Student in the Spotlight'. Karen is a graduate of the Training Center's Improv and Acting programs, a member of the Dream Team Volunteer Organization, a cast member of 'The Mighty Ted' and an all-around cool lady. Listen in to find out which Second City teacher Karen wouldn't mind being stuck on a desert island with, what bugs scare her and who introduced her to Second City classes!For More...

Read More

Second City Alum Martin Short Set to Host SNL on Dec. 15

We're excited to watch Second City alumni Martin Short host the December 15th episode of "Saturday Night Live" with musical guest Paul McCartney. Click here for more information. This season's cast features three recent hires from The Second City including Aidy Bryant, Tim Robinson and Cecily Strong. Click here for highlight's from this past seas...

Read More

Performer Spotlight with 'El is for Love' Cast Members Sam Roos and Stephanie Weber

Nancy Fast interviews Sam Roos and Stephanie Weber, cast members of HouseCo's 'El is for Love'. Coincidentally, Stephanie and Sam are both graduates of Columbia's 'Comedy Studies' program, which takes place at The Second City Training Center. Listen to the interview to find out more about their journey and then check them out live on Saturdays at 10:30pm in The Second City’s de Maat Theater.To buy tickets, call 312.337.3992 or visit secondcity....

Read More

Second City Celebrates Gilda Radner

In the wake of recent news regarding the decision of several Gilda's Club affiliate members' to change the name of their club due to a "lack of recognition" of Gilda Radner, The Second City is pleased to present "Celebrating Gilda," a panel on the enduring legacy and impact of Gilda Radner's life and career on Thursday, December 6, 2012 from 5:00-6:00pm in UP Comedy Club (230 W. North Ave, 3rd Floor of Piper's Alley).Moderated by Anne Libera, Director of Comedy Studies at The Second City and Columbia College Chicago as well as a Governing Board...

Read More

More Reasons to Celebrate! The Second City's Christmas Carol Adds Special Guests

Looking for more reasons to check out "The Second City's Christmas Carol: Twist Your Dickens" at the Kirk Douglas Theater in LA? Center Theatre Group and The Second City have assembled an eclectic collection of stars from the worlds of stage, screen, radio, politics, music, food, fitness, spirituality and interplanetary transport who will drop in, one by one, for a special surprise cameo performances during the run of "The Second City's Christmas Carol: Twist Your Dickens."The partial list of guest stars includes musicians Lance Bass and Henry...

Read More

Vote Today! Second City Nominated for Best Revue and Best Actor

The Second City has been nominated in the third annual BroadwayWorld Chicago Awards, the only comprehensive online theater awards in the Chicago area that are voted by theater fans. Click here to place your vote for "We're All in This Room Together" in the Best Production - Revue category and Edgar Blackmon for Best Actor in a Musical or Revue (Resident Equity) from "Who Do We Think We Are?" Voting ends December 15, 2012 and winners will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at The Call (1547 West Bryn Mawr Ave).VOTE ...

Read More

The Second City's A Christmas Carol: Twist Your Dickens Opens This Weekend

The world premiere of The Second City's A Christmas Carol: Twist Your Dickens!, written by Peter Gwinn (formerly of "The Colbert Report") and Bobby Mort (currently of "The Colbert Report"), begins previews on November 24 with performances through December 30 at Center Theatre Group's Kirk Douglas Theatre in Los Angeles, CA.Directed by Second City alum, Marc Warzecha (Resident Director, The Second City) the cast features Frank Caeti ("MADtv"), Larry Joe Campbell ("According to Jim"), Dan Castellaneta ("The Simpsons"), Amanda Blake Davis ("Second...

Read More

Patrick Stewart to join Renee Fleming to co-host The Second City Guide to the Opera

Lyric Opera of Chicago announces that respected stage, film and television actor, Patrick Stewart, will co-host The Second City Guide to the Opera on Saturday, January 5, with internationally renowned soprano and Lyric Opera creative consultant, Renée Fleming.Tickets are now on sale for The Second City Guide to the Opera ($25 to $95) and can be purchased by phone (312) 332-2244, at the Lyric Opera box office, or through the website (lyricopera.org). Benefit tickets are also available ($250) and include a post-performance reception with the artists....

Read More

Letters to Santa Benefit Returns - December 18 - 19

Free live streaming and the ability to donate will be available at Gigity.tv and Letterstosantachicago.com. The Second City is pleased to once again celebrate the holidays with a 24-hour benefit marathon of improvisational and music fun on Tuesday, December 18, 2012 at 6:00pm in The Second City e.t.c. Theatre (1608 N. Wells, 2nd Floor of Piper's Alley) through Wednesday, December 19 at 6:00pm.For over a decade, The Second City has enlisted Chicago's best improvisers and their musical counterparts in offering twenty-four consecutive hours of improv...

Read More

Second City Toronto and Chicago Alum Lauren Ash Cast in ABC Pilot

Congrats to Second City Toronto and Chicago alum Lauren Ash on being cast in a new ABC pilot, "Super Fun Night." Read the announcement at playbackonline....

Read More

Final Shows for One Nation Under 1%

Our hit election season revue, "One Nation Under 1%" has 2 performances left. The show is constantly updated to stay fresh, so even with the election over, "One Nation" is just as funny as ever. Visit UP Comedy Club for details and watch this video of Ross Bryant from the "One Nation" cast interviewing people on the street about our great nati...

Read More

Chicago-Area Native, Kyle Kinane, Comes to UP Comedy Club Nov 15 - 18

Stand-up comedian Kyle Kinane and Aurora native will be back in his home state this weekend at UP Comedy Club. Check out UP’s website for info on his career and upcoming shows. Watch this video below to get a taste of his darkly funny come...

Read More

Student Headshot Day - December 14-15

The Second City Training Center will be offering a discounted Headshot Day for students on December 14th and 15th (10am-4pm) with guest artist Sally Blood(www.sallybloodheadshots.com). Sessions are 1 hour long and include a 15-minute corrective make-up session and 45-minute shoot. Each session is $200 ($75 deposit needed on day of reservation). Participants receive a high resolution disc of all their images. Retouching is available for $30 additional per photo. Reproductions not included. Email Andrew Thorp at athorp@secondcity.com with any questions...

Read More

Moxie's Lindy Voeltner and Pat Ivansek talk HouseCo with Nancy Fast

Nancy Fast interviews Moxie cast members Lindy Voeltner and Pat Ivansek about their experience in The Second City Training Center’s House Ensemble. Find out more about HouseCo shows and auditions, whose dad was a highschool football coach, and how Lindy’s mom turned her on to Second City via PBS!See Pat and Lindy live every Saturday at 7:30 in The Second City Training Center’s de Maat Theater!...

Read More

Robert Klein - Legendary Second City Alumni - Returns for One Weekend

November 9th-11thFor over 40 years, Robert Klein has entertained audiences on Broadway, television, and film. An alumnus of Second City, Klein was the first comedian to film an HBO special and has made nine specials for the network. He's appeared on "The Tonight Show" and "The Late Show with David Letterman" over 100 times and can be seen in films like "The Owl and the Pussycat," "Primary Colors," and "Radioland Murders."Hosted by Greg Mills and accompanied by Bob Stein. Times: Fri. 8:00p.m./Sat. 8:00 p.m. & 10:30 p.m./*Sun. 8:00 p.m. Tickets:...

Read More

Election Night @ The Second City

Good Citizens will be rewarded on Election Night at The Second City. Exercise your right to vote on Election Day and receive half-price tickets to The Second City 100th Revue: "Who Do We Think We Are?" Shake off the stressful election season with a great night and a strong cocktail.Time: Tuesday, November 6, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.Tickets: Receive half-priced tickets with your voter receipt (Regular price - $23.00). Use promotional code "VOTER" when purchasing. Limit of 4 tickets per order. Offer valid Tues, November 6, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.GET TICKETS &...

Read More

Chicago Comedy Film Fest Welcomes Second City Students With Discounted Tickets This Weekend!

www.ccfilmfest.eventbrite.comSecond City students get 2 for 1 tickets at Chicago Comedy Film Fest by using code 2NDCITY for any single screening. Tickets regularly $10!Chicago Comedy Film Festival will take place at DePaul University's School of Cinema and Interactive Media Theater at 247 S. State Street 11/2-11/4. On screen celebs such as Janeane Garafalo, Adrian Grenier, Jim Norton, Michael Titus, Cheri Oteri, Michael Boatman, Dave Foley, and...

Read More

Second City Celebrates Lois Kaz

Today we celebrate the retirement of Lois Kaz. Lois has been part of The Second City for over 40 years starting as a House Manager in 1968 during the Democratic National Convention. She's worn many hats during her time at North & Wells - House Manager, Building Manager, Purchaser and Accountant. We thank her for all of her years of service.Congratulations on your retirement, Lois! We'll miss y...

Read More

"Chicago Live!" Returns with Rick Kogan and Second City

Thursday, November 1The Tribune's Rick Kogan is taking Chicago Live! to the south suburbs for one special night. On Thursday, November 1, meet Rick and enjoy a special evening of interviews and musical performances, with comedy from The Second City. Special guests include WVON's Cliff Kelley, Three Floyds Brewery and hip-hop artist Psalm One, plus The Tribune's Dawn Trice and Bruce Dold and much more.Time: 7 p.m.Location: The Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University, 1 University Pkwy., University ParkTickets: $20, www.chicagolive.comClick...

Read More

Happy Halloween! You Deserve a Drink

Lock the door, leave a bowl of candy on the porch and have a drink on us at The Second City's 100th Revue: Who Do We Think We Are? on Wednesday, October 31st at 8:00 p.m. Use the code "SPOOKY" when purchasing your tickets and you'll be treated to one of our delicious Halloween cocktails. One Halloween specialty cocktail is included in the purchase of a full price ticket ($23.00). Offer limited to 4 tickets per order and valid only on 10/31/12.Our Halloween Specialty Cocktails are:Brain Hemorrhage ShootersA terrifyingly delicious concoction of Peach...

Read More

Hilarious Cast Set for "The Second City's A Christmas Carol: Twist Your Dickens"

The Second City scoured their address book to assemble a cast of seven luminary L.A.-based alumni for their hilarious take on the beloved Charles Dickens tale of hope and redemption. The world premiere of The Second City's A Christmas Carol: Twist Your Dickens! is written by Second City alums, Peter Gwinn (formerly of "The Colbert Report") and Bobby Mort (currently of "The Colbert Report"), and opens November 29, 2012, at Center Theatre Group's Kirk Douglas Theatre. Previews begin November 24 and performances will run through December 30.Directed...

Read More

Second City Outreach Kicks Off a New Open Mic Jam and Show

Dionna Griffin Irons, Director of Outreach & Diversity shares info about a new open mic jam for up and comers. New voices in comedy hit the stage on Saturday at 7:30pm before the program's new show Race: The Final Frontier show.See Urban Twist in Race: The Final Frontier every Saturday at 9pm in Donny's Skybox. To buy tickets, visit or call 312-337-3992Meet the Urban Twist cast and hear about the sh...

Read More

Dave Thomas is Coming to Chicago's Training Center

Emmy Award winning writer, comedian, actor, producer and director Dave Thomas will be in the Training Center October 24-26 leading workshops and participating in our Writer's Salon. On October 24 & 25 Dave will be leading two days of How to Sell Your Comedy and Make Money. In this wide-ranging and interactive workshop he will take ideas provided by our TC students and show you how to take a comedy concept and work it up into a pitch. Students may enroll in either or both days of the workshop. Click here for more information.On October 26 Dave...

Read More

360 Degree Video of Our Toronto Training Center

Check out this sweet 360 degree video of our Toronto Training Center! Just click and drag the footage to change what you s...

Read More

Tina Fey & Amy Poehler Confirmed to Host Golden Globes

January can't come soon enough! Yesterday, it was announced that Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are confirmed to host the 70th annual Golden Globe Awards airing live on NBC January 13. If this is any indication, 2013 is going to be the best year ever. Click here to read more about ...

Read More

Second City Wins Big at Jeff Awards

It was a big night at the Jeff Awards! Congratulations to Jeff Award winners Edgar Blackmon (Actor - Revue), Ryan Bernier (Director - Revue) and the cast and crew of The Second City e.t.c.'s "We're All in This Room Together" (Production - Revue).The Joseph Jefferson Awards Committee celebrates the vitality of Chicago area theatre by recognizing excellence through its recommendations, awards and honors. The committee fosters the artistic growth of area theatres and theatre artists and promotes educational opportunities, audience appreciation, and...

Read More

Second City Network Mentioned in New York Times

On Sunday, Stephanie Cutter was featured in the New York Times and they included a nice shout-out regarding the "Stephanie Cutter Freaks Out" video that had been produced by The Second City Network's Andy Co...

Read More

Nice to Have You in Chicago, Alan Arkin

Second City alum Alan Arkin returned to Chicago last night to promote "Stand Up Guys," which opened the 48th annual Chicago International Film Festival. While on the red carpet, he told Chicago Sun Times reporter Bill Zwecker, "This was the beginning, thanks to Second City." Even today, Arkin said, he has "many, many friends in Chicago."Watch the trailer for "Stand Up Guys" below. Read the full article he...

Read More

Will SCTV go back to Melonville?

It's in the works! Check out this feature from The Globe and Mail to hear more about the proce...

Read More

Performer Spotlight with New Twisty Members Sean Cooley and Alan Linic

Nancy Fast interviews members of the new Twisty cast Sean Cooley and Alan Linic! Learn about The Second City Training Center’s House Teams, auditioning, Alan’s thoughts on food tiers, Sean’s apocalyptic survival plans and more!You can see Twisty every Saturday at 9pm in the de Maat Theater. To buy tickets visit Secondcity.com/tc or cal 312.337.3992Listen to the Podca...

Read More

Second City Alums Take Over Your Television

Congratulations to all of our alums that have booked deals in the past couple of weeks! Here's a sampling of some of the shows you'll see:Tami Sagher with Kourtney Kang just went to CBS with a pilot production commitment for a single-camera comedy. Titled "Nerds In Love," the project, from 20th Century Fox TV, is based on the unlikely real-life friendship of "How I Met Your Mother" writers Kang (former cheerleader) and Sagher (former mathlete). It explores the dating lives of the social haves and have-nots at a marketing firm. "It lies somewhere...

Read More

Second City Touring Company's Cecily Strong on Thursday's SNL

Check out Second City Touring Company alum Cecily Strong on Thursday's SNL special election episo...

Read More

Teacher Spotlight with Tyler Dean Kempf

Nancy Fast interviews Faculty Member and Directing Student Tyler Dean Kempf in our latest Teacher Spotlight. Tyler’s web series, Door to Door, is airing now on doortodoorseries.com or facebook.com/doortodoorseries. The series features student alumnus Tommy Reard and current Faculty members Micah Philbrook and Lauren Dowden.Listen in to find out what motivated Tyler to write the series and how he managed to audition a kid on the street!The Second City Training Center offers classes in Improv, Comedy Writing, Acting, Stand-up and More. Term 6 begins...

Read More

Congratulations to the Emmy Winners

Congratulations to all the Emmy winners, who include Second City Touring Company alum Julia Louis-Dreyfus won for Best Actress, Comedy for her role in "Veep" and Second City Training Center grad Eric Stonestreet won Best Supporting Actor, Comedy for his role in "Modern Family."Click here for the full Emmy Awards Nominees and Winn...

Read More

Book Launch for SKETCH, at Glad Day Bookshop

Sarah Bertrand is a recent graduate of the Second City Training Centre's writing program and is gearing up for the big launch of her second book.There will be guests, drinks, music and laughs, and you can get her second book, Sketch! It's based on her year at The Second City Training Centre. Second City Writing alumni Rob Schulz, Ryan J Graham, and Oliver Ho will all be there to do a reading!Actress/singer Jessiqua Elin Clausen and VERY special secret guest will be performing, "Adele Goes To Walmart", from Sketch. Thursday September 27th from ...

Read More

Ira Miller

The Second City was saddened to learn of the passing of beloved alum Ira Miller. Ira performed on the Mainstage in Chicago in the mid 1960's before moving on to star in a number film and television programs in Los Angeles, including the Mel Brooks' classic films Blazing Saddles, High Anxiety and Spaceballs. Ira was also a cherished faculty member of The Second City Training Center in ...

Read More

The Second City Teams Up With MyStudio for BuzzKill Movie Contest

"Black Santa" Remix/MTV-style Music Video Contest and Promotion for Second City's New Film BuzzKill Launches Today!The Second City and the producers of the new feature film BuzzKill today announced that they have teamed up with MyStudio to launch the "Black Santa Remix Contest". Contestants will utilize MyStudio®HD Recording Studios to produce an MTV-style music video of the song "Black Santa" from the movie BuzzKill. The videos will be produced with clips and other elements from the film. BuzzKill is an absurd comedy about a struggling British...

Read More

Second City Excited to Welcome JFL 42

The Second City is thrilled to participating as both a performer and venue for JFL42 (Just For Laughs's 2012 Toronto Comedy Festival), beginning today at venues throughout Toronto.Click here to read a Toronto Star preview about this exciting festival like none other.In addition to performances by our own improv and sketch comedy troupe, The Second City theatre will play host to amazing series of guests over the next eight days:Please note: tickets for these shows are available exclusively via JFL's Festival Pass system, and cannot be purchased...

Read More

The Second City Does Dallas- Extended Through October 6

We're thrilled to announce that The Second City Does Dallas has been extended through Saturday, October 6 at the Dallas Theater Center due to overwhelming response. The Second City Does Dallas was originally scheduled to close on September 30. Click here for more information and to reserve ticke...

Read More

Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Old Town

It's Old Town outdoors! Old Town al Fresco is the sixth event in the year-long Living Old Town 2012 series. It is focused on the many great outdoor dining destinations in Old Town. Each participating restaurant/cafe offers a 4-day promotion that best shows off its style and cuisine. Come back here to as more announcements are made, and make sure to keep up on Facebook.com/OldTownCHI and follow @OldTownCHI on Twitter.Old Town al Fresco Promotions - Monday, September 17th -- Thursday, September 20thBenchmark | 1510 N. WellsBuy one select pizza,...

Read More

CPS Strike Camps are Still in Session

CPS Strike Camps are still in session. Those who were registered for the previous week are still registered to continue this week unless we are notified that they will not be returning. Students are encouraged to sign up for the waitlist as some spaces may become available. Camps run from 10am through 3:30pm. Please call the Training Center is you have any questions 312-664-39...

Read More

Second City Toronto Celebrates 3rd Annual Open House!

The Second City Training Centre Toronto is proud to announce its 3rd annual open house celebration, Saturday, October 20, to welcome new students to its recently renovated facility. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Kevin Frank and Training Centre General Manager Erin Conway, The Training Centre student community has grown to over 4,200 students annually. This year the Training Centre has introduced programming for grades 2 to 4. Also operating out of The Training Centre is Second City's Education Program. This branch of The Second City...

Read More

Second City Hits the Bull's-Eye in Dallas

The Second City Does Dallas has hit the bulls-eye in Dallas and is receiving rave reviews. Elaine Liner with the Dallas Observer calls it "wicked satire" and Lauren Smart from Broadway World notes "if you're willing to laugh at yourself, perhaps with the aid of a few whiskey-cokes...Second City Does Dallas turns the eccentricities of our great city into well-delivered punchlines."The Second City Does Dallas is presented at the Dallas Theater Center through September 30. Click here for more information and to reserve ticke...

Read More

Special offer to assist parents with child care

In case the teacher strike continues we are please to offer this free service CPS families beginning 9/12/12Second City Day CampAges 8-1410:00am-3:30pmAs a special offer to assist parents with child care, The Second City Training Center will be offering a free CPS Strike Camp. Students will spend the morning learning Improv games and exercises and the afternoons studying Sketch comedy. Plus while they are in the building, they’ll get the opportunity to see a family friendly Second City show!Registration is free but space is limited and on a first...

Read More

Second City Day Camp During CPS Strike

Ages 8-1410:00am-3:30pmAs a special offer to assist parents with child care, The Second City Training Center will be offering a free CPS Strike Camp. Students will spend the morning learning Improv games and exercises and the afternoons studying Sketch comedy. Plus while they are in the building, they’ll get the opportunity to see a family friendly Second City show!Registration is free but space is limited and on a first come first serve basis. Lunch is not included but a supervised break will be provided between 12:30-1:00pm. Attending students...

Read More

Second City Talent Joins Saturday Night Live

The Second City is proud to announce that Second City alumni Aidy Bryant and Tim Robinson as well as Second City Touring Company member Cecily Strong have been invited to join the cast and crew of Saturday Night Live, NBC's Emmy Award-winning late-night comedy showcase, for their 38th Season."As always, we are thrilled with the success of our alumni and wish them all the best as they journey to the next step of their careers at Saturday Night Live,"...

Read More

Second City and The Lyric Opera Launch Dr. Opera Videos

La Bohème's bickering lovers Mimì and Rodolfo have some serious stuff to work through. So do adult children Hansel and Gretel. Which brings them to the office of Dr. Opera. Eating disorders, dubious wardrobe choices, issues with authority, money problems, unrealistic relationship expectations – check out how "Dr. Opera" puts the fun in dysfunction! LEARN MORE ABOUT THE VIDEOS AND OUR COLLABORATIONAria ready to laugh?Back in July, two legendary organizations - Lyric Opera of Chicago and The Second City - announced their debut collaboration: The...

Read More

Dallas Gets Barbecued, Chicago Style!

We're headed to Dallas Theater Center with a special show featuring a mix of archive and original material written by Brooke Breit and Ed Furman and starring an all-star Second City cast including Frank Caeti, Amanda Blake Davis, Martin Garcia, Liz Mikel, Scott Morehead and John Sabine. The Second City Does Dallas opens tonight with performances through September 30. Click here for more information & to reserve your ticke...

Read More

Last Chance: Girls' Night Out @ Metropolis

You've got one last chance to check out Second City's Girls' Night Out, directed by Ryan Bernier (recently directed the new hit show We're All in This Room Together at The Second City e.t.c. Theatre) at the beautiful Metropolis Theater. Tickets are available this Thursday - Saturday at 7:30p. Click here to reserve your ticke...

Read More

Second City Toronto Has Most Definitely "Got This"

Toronto's 70th Revue Opens to Critical AcclaimThe Second City opened its 70th Revue, We've Totally (Probably) Got This!, on its Toronto stage this week, and has received glowing reviews from critics. In his four star review, Toronto Star theatre critic Richard Ouzounian raved that "sketch and sketch hits the bull's-eye" and praised director Melody A. Johnson as well as the "sextet of performers who know no fear."The new revue is written and performed...

Read More

Second City's Comedy Studies Program Featured on Splitsider

Did you know we had a program through Columbia College where you could earn college credit for studying Comedy? We do! Check out this feature on SplitSider.c...

Read More

Student Spotlight Podcast with Kate Cohen and Matthew Van Colton!

Faculty members Kate Cohen and Matthew Van Colton talk with Nancy Fast about their new musical opening in Manhattan and their upcoming Chicago preview! Listen in to find out how the group enjoyed performing in the Training Center’s House Company ‘Infinite Sundaes’ and how far their friendships go back (it will warm your heart). For more information on this podcast, classes, workshops and more, call 312.664.3959 or visit secondcity.com/tc.More Info on Kate Cohen (Instructor in Improv and Teen/Youth Programs, HouseCo Alum):Kate Cohen has been improvising...

Read More

This Weekend: Crush in Old Town

Join us this weekend for music, food and amazing artwork and custom designs at Crush in Old Town. This annual end-of-summer festival in Old Town stretches from North Avenue to Schiller Street on Saturday & Sunday, September 1st & 2nd from noon to 10:00pm. Click here for more informati...

Read More

Tawny Newsome Visits You & MeThis Morning

Last week, Tawny Newsome from We're All in This Room Together sat down with the lovely Jeanne Sparrow to talk about her journey to The Second City e.t.c. on WCIU's You and Me This Morning.Tawny Newsome can be seen every Thursday - Sunday in The Second City e.t.c.'s We're All in This Room Together. Click here to reserve ticke...

Read More

Congratulations to This Year's Jeff Award Nominees!

Congratulations to Michael Kosinski (Actor - Revue), Edgar Blackmon (Actor - Revue), Ryan Bernier (Director - Revue) and the cast and crew of The Second City e.t.c.'s "We're All in This Room Together" (Production - Revue) on their 2012 Jeff Nominations! See the full list of nominees he...

Read More

Training Center Alumni and Faculty Performing Off-Broadway Improvised Musical in New York

Chicago-style Improv is hitting Manhattan September 11-15 with the musical One-Night Only as part of the 2012 Araca Project. Faculty members Kate Cohen, Michael Girts and Matthew Van Colton will be joined by student alumi Katie Dufresne, Nicole Hastings, and Kevin Sciretta in the cast. How This Happened:In April of 2012, a group of Chicago improvisers flew to New York and pitched an idea for a new musical to The Araca Group (Wicked, Urinetown). The cast made up a musical right there on the spot for Broadway producers in the middle of their conference...

Read More

Chicago Tribune Talks Improv With Student, Doctor Praveen Dandumudi

Dr. Praveen Dandamudi discusses the benefits improvisational training has had on his life and profession as a Kidney Specialist at Chicago's Resurrection Health Care. As a past "Student in the Spotlight," Dr. Dandamudi is no stranger to The Second City Training Center. Read his Spotlight Q&A.Check out the Chicago Tribune's complete article.The Second City Training Center is now open for registration in Improv, Comedy Writing, Acting, Stand-up and more! For more information visit our Training Center pa...

Read More

Second City Returns to Arlington Heights

Grab your BFF and hop on the Metra - we're headed back to the beautiful Metropolis Theater this summer with The Second City's Girls' Night Out directed by Ryan Bernier (recently directed the new hit show We're All in This Room Together at The Second City e.t.c. Theatre). Performances begin on August 2 through September 8 - click here to reserve your ticke...

Read More

Second City's Walking Tour Featured on ABC News with Janet Davies

The Second City's Walking Tour was featured on last night's ABC news broadcast featuring Janet Davies. Visit ABC to check it o...

Read More

The Second City Training Center To Offer A One-Day Workshop for Sufferers of Anxiety On August 14th

The "Improv for Anxiety One-Day Workshop" will provide an interactive opportunity for people with anxiety to use improvisation as part of their recovery. All levels of experience are invited. A Second City instructor will facilitate the class. Mark Pfeffer, Director at PARC will be there to welcome you. The class runs on August 14th from 4-7pmClick here for more information on Improvisation for AnxietyAbout Mark Pfeffer, Director of the Panic/Anxiety Recovery CenterMark Pfeffer is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Illinois and...

Read More

Student Spotlight Podcast with Ted Waltmire and Nancy Fast!

Listen in to one of our favorite interviews yet! Ted Waltmire visits Nancy Fast and discusses his experiences at the Training Center, recovering from a stroke and his upcoming show! Truly inspiring stuff.Click here for more info or to buy tickets to Ted's show in The Donny's Skyb...

Read More

Tribune Lists Tawny Newsome as One to Watch

Tawny Newsome, cast member of The Second City e.t.c. and currently performing in We're All in This Room Together, has been included in Chicago Tribune's Hot New Faces to Watch in Chicago Theater. The annual list, compiled by Chief Theater Critic Chris Jones, includes the most promising young talent in Chicago. Click here for the full li...

Read More

Improv Extravaganza Explosion Featured in Time Out Chicago Kids!

Our new kids show, Improv Extravaganza Explosion, received the feature treatment from Time Out Chicago Comedy Editor, Jason Heidemann, in the August/September issue of Time Out Chicago Kids. He writes, "In a show of ecstatic enthusiasm normally reserved for a Justin Bieber concert, the kids at the UP Comedy Club lose their minds." To keep reading, check out the full article he...

Read More

Student Headshot Day – August 17th and 18th

The Second City Training Center will be offering a discounted Headshot Day for students on August 17th and 18th (9am-5pm) with guest artist Sally Blood(www.sallybloodphoto.com). Sessions are 1 hour long and include a 15-minute corrective make-up session and 45-minute shoot. Each session is $200 ($75 deposit needed on day of reservation). Participants receive access to all unedited photos via a photo share gallery and can include touched-up, full-color proofs for an additional $25 each, to be arranged directly with the photographer. Reproductions...

Read More

Congratulations, Emmy Nominees!

Congratulations to Stephen Colbert, Paul Dinello, Tina Fey, Jeff Garlin, Shelly Gossman, Peter Gwinn, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Michael Patrick O'Brien, Amy Poehler, Tom Purcell and Jeff Richmond on their 2012 Primetime Emmy Nominations! The 64th Annual Primetime Emmys will be awarded on Sunday, September 23 on ABC. Click here for a complete list of nomine...

Read More

Lyric Opera and Second City Announce Collaboration

We're thrilled to announce that The Second City is partnering with Lyric Opera of Chicago on The Second City Guide to the Opera, an all new show debuting at the Civic Opera House on Saturday, January 5, at 8:00p featuring Renee Fleming. Tickets go on sale July 18 for Lyric subscribers. General public tickets go on sale August 1. Click here for more informati...

Read More

Student Spotlight with Nancy Fast and Ian Abramson

Nancy Fast interviews student, Dream Team volunteer, and co-host of The Midnight Melt - Ian Abramson! Listen in as Ian shares info about his improv group Jamonella, his web-series 'Talent Scouts Honor', and which comedian he would like to be stuck with on a deserted island.Listen to the Podca...

Read More

Making it in LA - Free Lecture and Q&A

Thursday July 26 6-8pmJohn Candy Box TheatreHave you considered moving to LA to pursue your acting career, but didn't know where to start and what to expect once you get down there? This lecture will discuss the ins and outs of moving to LA as a professional actor. It will dispel the myths about LA and provide useful information about how to get started in Hollywood.VIEW DETAILSPlease reserve a seat with Allana areoch@secondcity.com in advance, limited space is available.FREE for Second City Students and Grads. $10 for non Second City Studen...

Read More

Win a free class from IFC's BUNK

The Second City Training Center is one of a number of improv schools around the country to offer a free class to social media followers of the IFC comedy show BUNK. Each Friday night after BUNK airs, they will post a challenge on their Twitter feed, and the lucky winners receive a voucher to use for a class. Check out their website for the details.Also, don't forget to follow the Chicago Training Center on Twitter @SecondCityChiTC and Second City Hollywood @SecondCit...

Read More

Timeout Deems Second City Faculty Member Dean Evans, "Performer of the Week"

Dean Evans is in the spotlight again with his latest show "Honeybuns." Check out the Timeout Chicago intervi...

Read More

The Washington Post Joins The Training Center For Our Improv Drop-in

The Washington Post’s M. Spencer joined Jessica Rogers and The Second City Training Center to find out what our Drop-in Improv Classes are all about. A few human knots, Samurais, and absurd dances later, Spencer is much closer to knowing what improvisation entails.Read M. Spencer’s Washinton Post artic...

Read More

New e.t.c. Show Scores Raves and Jeff Recommendation

The Second City e.t.c.'s new show opened to rave reviews from Chris Jones with Chicago Tribune (3 out of 4 Stars) and Hedy Weiss with Chicago Sun-Times (Highly Recommended). They also garnered a Jeff Recommendation on their opening night. "Jeff Recommended" indicates that at least one element of a show was deemed outstanding by opening night judges. The entire production is then eligible for nomination for awards at the end of the season.Performances are selling out fast. Click here to reserve your tickets...

Read More

We're All in This Room Together Opens Tonight!

The Second City e.t.c. is proud to open their 36th revue We're All in This Room Together tonight! Directed by Ryan Bernier, We're All in This Room Together is written and performed by Aidy Bryant, Mike Kosinski, Michael Lehrer, Tawny Newsome, Andel Sudik and Chris Witaske. Kyle Anderson is the Lighting Designer and Stage Manager with Jesse Case as Musical Director.Visit our Facebook page to check out pictures from the show. Click here to reserve ticke...

Read More

Last Chance for Chicago Live! Season Finale on Thursday

Chicago Live! wraps up their second season at Up Comedy Club with a compelling line-up of guests including:Television personality and host of Travel Channel's "Man v. Food" Adam Richman (interview with Mark Caro)Photographer Art Shay (interview with Rick Kogan)Jazz pianist and singer Judy Roberts (performance and interview with Howard Reich)Bluegrass band Henhouse ProwlersChicago Live! AlmanacComedy from The Second CityChicago Live! is recorded in front of a live studio audience at 7 p.m. Thursdays at UP Comedy Club. After each show, the audience...

Read More

Improv Extravaganza gets 4 Stars

Chicago Stage Style gives The Second City's Improv Extravaganza 4 Stars!Read the review he...

Read More

Chicago Live! This Thursday: Garry McCarthy, Greg Bostrom, Funkadesi and More

Join us again this Thursday in UP Comedy Club for Chicago Live! featuring a fantastic line-up of guests including:Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthyFirefly Music Festival chief innovation officer and director Greg BostromActor, writer and director David PreteMusical guests FunkadesiChicago Live! AlmanacComedy from The Second CityChicago Live! is recorded in front of a live studio audience at 7 p.m. Thursdays at UP Comedy Club. After each show, the audience is invited to a 30-minute reception with the cast, crew and guests. Click here...

Read More

Teacher, Jeff Poole, Featured in Huffington Post for His Twitter Writing

Chicago Training Center Teacher, Jeff Poole, was featured in the Huffington Post for his fake Twitter account @KingofIL where he pretends to be Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Check out the full article at the Huffington Po...

Read More

AV Club Learns A Few Things on Our Tour

AV Club writer Marah Eakin joined us for The Second City Neighborhood Tour and learned a couple of things - including that one of the faces on our famous facade looks like Nick Offerman. But its not - just in case you thought the same thing. Click here to read the full revi...

Read More

Jack McBrayer Talks Second City, Nude Bicyclists On "Conan"

Second City alum Jack McBrayer talks about his Second City days and shows off his accent work in this Conan intervi...

Read More

New Show Set for Second City e.t.c.

The Second City e.t.c. is proud to announce the opening of their brand new 36th Revue, We're All in This Room Together. Reviewing press are invited to attend the show on Thursday, June 28, 2012, at 8:00pm at The Second City e.t.c. Theatre (1608 N. Wells St, 2nd Floor). A Grand Opening is scheduled for Sunday, July 1, 2012, at 7:00p.The cast of The Second City e.t.c. invites you to turn off your cell phone, log off Facebook and stop tweeting to attend...

Read More

The Second City Training Center Spotlight with Kelly Bolton!

Nancy Fast interviews the wonderful Kelly Bolton about her comedy experiences in Chicago, her role with the awesome Chicago Women's Funny Festival and more!Listen to the Podcast! ...

Read More

This Weekend: Old Town Art Fair

Coming to see a show this weekend? If so, be sure to schedule some time to experience the Old Town Art Fair (on Lincoln @ Wisconsin) and Wells St. Art Fest (on N. Wells between North and Division). Both events showcase the country's most talented fine artists as well as entertainment, food and drink.Please note parking will be limited in the Old Town neighborhood weekend. If you're driving, allow yourself extra time to find parking. Taxicabs will be available throughout the neighborhood and CTA is easy to access from the El Sedgwick Brown Line...

Read More

Andrew Alexander Set to Receive RIGHT to LAUGH Award - June 12

The Alliance For Children's Rights, Los Angeles' preeminent nonprofit dedicated to protecting the rights of at-risk children, is announcing the 3rd annual RIGHT to LAUGH comedy event.Andrew Alexander and The Second City will be honored at this year's event which includes an all-star comedy performance line up including Martin Short, Fred Willard, Patricia Heaton, Rachael Harris and Jeff Garlin. Funds raised will benefit The Alliance for Children's Rights in their quest to help impoverished and abused children in LA.The RIGHT to LAUGH will take...

Read More