Must See Shows in Chicago

In 1959, a comedy club, theatre, and improv school was born and has brought many smiles to the faces of those who have attended their shows. The Second City was founded by Bernard Sahlins, Howard Alk and Paul Sills, who was the son of the improv teacher Viola Spolin. Our alumni network is filled with comedians, actors, directors and others working in the entertainment industry and many of their careers started right here at our theatre. From Steve Carell to Stephen Colbert to Tina Fey, there are countless notable alumni that continue to grow in their careers and never fail to make us laugh.

The Second City has a variety of different types of must see shows in Chicago. Whether it is a destination on vacation, date night or a night on the town with friends our shows are worth the trip. Our shows are constantly changing, bringing new energy and material to the stage with each new show that comes to life. The changing shows allows for you to come and have a different experience every time you return to The Second City. The types of shows include revues, improv shows, touring groups, and more.

Types of Must See Shows in Chicago

Revues combine multiple sketches that are all interconnected in one way or another. They are very popular amongst our many must see Chicago shows and are centered around an array of different topics and characters, making the show feel similar to a play. Click here to find our current revue shows playing and you can purchase your tickets right on our website.

Our improv shows feel out the audience and roll with the punches as they jump from scene to scene with new ideas, humor, characters, expressions and more. Our improv shows are a must see if you make a trip or move to Chicago, as improv is what The Second City was founded on! We also offer improvisation classes that help train those in the show and can be a great way to meet new people. To see what improvisation shows are playing click here.

We also have touring shows that travel all over the country, so you will be able to have The Second City experience even if you don’t live in Chicago. The touring shows change just like our other shows. View our schedule and see if one of our touring groups will be playing in your area.

The Second City makes a night memorable and with the variety of different must see shows in Chicago, it creates an experience you will want to see again and again. Check out the links above to see what shows are currently playing at which theatre. With must see shows in Chicago playing at the etc theatre, the Mainstage Theatre, the UP Comedy Club, as well as our partner theatres, you can see a different show each week. The Second City prides itself on always offering fresh comedy shows, and with rotating revues, and improv shows, you will always have a new show to experience!