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, NOV. 17
Star-Spangled Sitcoms: Huzzah & John Adams
1020 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. 248-914-0147
Fan-favorite sitcoms “Cheers” and “Fraiser” get the 18th century treatment. The Founding Fathers drink at a Boston tavern where everybody knows their names, and later, the first Thanksgiving at the White House turns into a real doozy. 8 p.m. $20. Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
FRIDAY, NOV. 18
Fruit Cake: An Improvised Holiday Movie
956 W. Newport Ave. 773-270-3440
An ensemble performs an improvised holiday movie on stage as audience members are encouraged to suggest last-minute plot twists. 9 p.m. $12. Tickets: underthegun.theater
SATURDAY, NOV. 19
Die Another Holiday
1515 W. Berwyn Ave. 773-961-8214
Cute couple Ben and Lanny just want to have a nice Christmas, especially since their families are meeting for the first time. But given the fact that Ben and his family are all secret agents, trouble follows wherever they go. At the very least, this two-act farce will make you feel just a little more normal ahead of the holiday season. 9:30 p.m. $15. Tickets: whatisph.com
SUNDAY, NOV. 20
Jesus, Take the G*ddamn Wheel Already
Judy’s Beat Lounge at Second City
230 W. North Ave. 312-337-3992
Preston Parker was raised as a Jehovah’s Witness, but he’s not one anymore. Through a mix of stand-up comedy, songs and characters, he explores his relationship with faith in this solo revue directed by Jen Ellison. 8 p.m. $13. Tickets: secondcity.com
Aunty Chan’s Office Holiday Party
851 W. Belmont Ave. 773-697-9693
This office holiday party is guaranteed to be funnier than your office holiday party. Aunty Chan is head of the party planning committee and invites audiences to enjoy an epic variety show with her favorite co-workers. 9:30 p.m. $8. Tickets: theannoyance.com
TUESDAY, NOV. 22
Potential Boyfriends
3110 N. Sheffield Ave. 773-610-5930
In its sixth year, this weekly BYOB comedy showcase offers improv, stand-up and lotsa laughs. 8 p.m. $11. Tickets: mclchicago.com
Want to see your show in Set the Scene? Us too! Send details to Morgan Olsen at mcolsen@redeyechicago.com for consideration.
