It’s no wonder Chicago has such a thriving live comedy scene with all these options:
Second City Training Center
Second City is the largest school of improvisation and sketch comedy in the world. They offer a huge variety of writing and performing arts classes tailored to both the beginner and the professional. There are 6 terms in a year, so you’ve read this just in time to sign up for next term.
iO Chicago Theater Training Center
Learn improv in the same classrooms as Mike Meyers, Tina Fey, Chris Farley, Tim Meadows, Amy Poehler and many many other famous alumni once were. iO founded longform improv, but has a full curriculum of writing classes, “Monster” level programs for advanced improvisers, and a year-long improv program.
Annoyance Theater Classes
The Annoyance is known for creating their plays and musicals from improvisation, and offers programs in both improv and writing. Read our article about their curriculum here
Jimmy Carrane’s “Art of Slow Comedy” classes and workshops
Improv classes focusing on grounded, connected scenework; culminating in a final show at the end of the session.
Jay Olson’s “Get Physical” improv workshop
Talk less, do more, go further…get physical
Comedy Studies Program at Columbia College
Columbia College and Second City collaborate to provide a unique opportunity to study full-time at The Second City for an
entire semester.
The Playground Theater
Master’s level improv classes, improv workshops, and sketch writing lab at the first and only non-profit co-op improv theater in the U.S.
Theatre Momentum Workshops
Theatre Momentum gathers some of Chicago’s best improv/theatre directors to teach a variety of workshops at the Theatre Momentum Studio on weekends. These are independent workshops in the Theatre Momentum style.
Zanies Classes
Learn stand-up comedy from Chicago’s premiere stand-up comedy club. A large variety of classes catering to the beginner, intermediate, and advanced comedian are offered.
ComedySportz
Learn short-form improv in the ComedySportz fix level training program, then audition to be a cast member. ComedySportz is the longest running short-form improv show in Chicago. Occasional elective classes are also offered.
Gorilla Tango Training
A variety of improv classes for both children and adults taught by improv veteran David Razowsky.
Lincoln Lodge Stand-up Comedy Classes
Three classes offered for beginning stand-up comics, including a class for female comedians and one for teens.
The Edge Stand-Up Comedy Classes
An 8 week class or intensive boot camp offering instruction for the beginning stand-up comedian, including networking, performing, and business tips.
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