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, DEC. 1
It’s a Nick & Gabe Christmas Party
230 W. North Ave. 312-662-4562
Bring on the holly jolly feels at the opening night of this comedic duo’s holiday celebration, which promises to have you singing along to your favorite timely tunes. 10:30 p.m. $12-$17. Tickets: upcomedyclub.com
FRIDAY, DEC. 2
The Buttcracker: A Nutcracker Burlesque
4707 N. Broadway 773-867-1946
Combining burlesque, drag, magic, ballet and more, this one-night-only variety show from Tom Boi Theatricals and The Cuckoo’s Theater Project remixes the holiday classic. 8 p.m. $25-$30. Tickets: thebuttcrackerburlesque.com
SATURDAY, DEC. 3
Laughing Stock: The Chicago Comedy Music Festival
2871 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-549-5549
The fifth annual two-day fest packs in 28 comedy music acts from Chicago and across the country. 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. $10 per night. Tickets: elboroomlive.com
SUNDAY, DEC. 4
The Roast of Darth Vader
3175 N. Broadway 773-327-3175
Stay on target and get yourself to the Lakeview theater for the latest Character Assassination featuring Darth Vader in the hot seat. Comedians Andy Fleming, Danny Maupin and Tyler Jackson will play notable characters such as Yoda, Leia and more to do the deed. 9 p.m. $17-$20 with a two-drink minimum per person. Tickets: laughfactory.com
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 7
Huggable Riot: Claus & Effect
851 W. Belmont Ave. 773-697-9693
Get in the spirit with Huggable Riot cast members as they explore holiday joys such as divulging personal insecurities at the Thanksgiving table, Jay Cutler fulfilling a Christmas wish and more. 9:30 p.m. $10-$12. Tickets: theannoyance.com
Want to see your show in Set the Scene? Us too! Send details to Morgan Olsen at mcolsen@redeyechicago.com for consideration.
![Four years into cannabis legalization in Illinois, celebrations of the April 20 informal weed holiday known as 420 are getting bigger and more widespread. Named for the time of day a group of friends met to get high, 420 has become a chance for marijuana users to publicly share a previously illegal drug and the counter-cultural atmosphere surrounding it. The main event in downtown Chicago likely will be the second annual 420 Sesh Fest, at Green Rose Dispensary. The party will include live music, a magic show, carnival games, food trucks, pop ups, and product discounts. It also will feature Grammy-nominated […]](https://www.chicagotribune.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ctc-l-Illinois-marijuana_175925141.jpg?w=546 "Four years into cannabis legalization in Illinois, celebrations of the April 20 informal weed holiday known as 420 are getting bigger and more widespread. Named for the time of day a group of friends met to get high, 420 has become a chance for marijuana users to publicly share a previously illegal drug and the counter-cultural atmosphere surrounding it. The main event in downtown Chicago likely will be the second annual 420 Sesh Fest, at Green Rose Dispensary. The party will include live music, a magic show, carnival games, food trucks, pop ups, and product discounts. It also will feature Grammy-nominated […]")