Step away from the Netflix marathon and find your way into one of these local theaters for a belly laugh this week. Your guide to Chicago’s affordable and under-the-radar comedy scene awaits.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 8
Zoltan Kaszas
500 N. La Salle St. 312-836-0499
In town for a three-night stint, the winner of San Diego’s Funniest Person Contest, Seattle International Comedy Competition and a handful of other accolades brings his show to the River North comedy club. 8 p.m. $20. Tickets: comedybarchicago.com
FRIDAY, SEPT. 9
‘Evan & Mary-Jane Present: Almost Holding Hands’
The Beat Lounge at Second City
230 W. North Ave. 312-337-3992
Duo Evan Mills and Brittany Flynn present the opening night of this musical comedy about two best friends who are overly committed but will never fall in love with each other. Beyond writing their own material, Mills and Flynn play several instruments throughout the hour-ish-long show. 9 p.m. $13. Tickets: secondcity.com
Andorka’s Comedy Revue
2110 S. Halsted St. 312-763-6916
Celebrating one year of giggles, this anniversary show is BYOB-friendly, 100 percent free and hosted by Erin Grotheer with headliner Joe McMahon. Plus, order off the full menu and enjoy limited complimentary beer from Revolution Brewing. 8 p.m. Free. More information: facebook.com/andorkaschicago
Scout Festival Improv Showcase
1501 N. Kingsbury St. 312-929-2401
Billed as a “greatest hits” performance featuring some of the theater’s rising stars, this one-night show offers a little taste of everything including Whirled News Tonight, with satirical takes on current events, and 3Peat, an all-African-American ensemble that turns an audience suggestion or question into a longform improv piece. 8 p.m. $5. Tickets: ioimprov.com
SUNDAY, SEPT. 11
‘Taste Test Comedy’
6670 N. Northwest Hwy. 312-692-9327
The nationally touring show stops in Edison Park with food-centric sketch comedy and stand-up courtesy of host Kevin Seefried and guests David Tveite, Spark Tabor and Reena Calm. Plus, munch on free snacks throughout the show. 7:30 p.m. $10. Tickets: wiptheater.com
TUESDAY, SEPT. 13
‘Comedy Cocktail’
Foundation Room at House of Blues
329 N. Dearborn St. 312-923-7050 or 312-923-2035 after 6 p.m.
Cozy up for two free shows featuring comedians Erica Clark, Taneshia Rice, Tristan Triptow, Paul Farahvar and many more. Plus, enjoy $5 Best Damn Root Beer and Cherry Cola throughout the night. 7 and 9 p.m. Free. More information: houseofblues.com
mcolsen@redeyechicago.com | @morgancolsen
Want to see your show in Set the Scene? Us too! Send details to Morgan Olsen at mcolsen@redeyechicago.com for consideration.
