Always an incredible and hilarious experience. Also love learning about all the history! 10/10 would recommend for your visit to Chicago. Honestly I wish I visited more when I lived in the city.
Exploring their website ... i found comic classes are offered online. It is a great opportunity for a public presentation - i.e. a zoom interview for employment.
We walked in, knowing that we probably weren’t going to get a spot right away - obviously. It’s chicago, gotta have a reservation in the times of corona, we’re aware. We walked in, aug 30th at 8:45, host was SO NICE, and said hey we’re booked. in case Someone cancels, we will call you and then we will let you know if you can go up. But until then, wait in the green room and have a drink and we will let you know what’s going on. We close soon, so cancellations This late is normal, and we can let you know so you can go up to the rooftop. So we go onto the green room, and we walk into the Green room, and there is a cluster of servers who are standing by the edge of the bar staring at us. We are walking in, and wave at them so they know that we are seating and would like a drink, but they stay there and stare at us. We realize that we are not wanted in the bar, so we decide to go to the bathroom, and come back up, and I still they have not greated ya. It is clear about an hour and a half before you guys close, they are not interested in serving us at all. So we chug waters and leave. It was our friend’s bday, we had been spending $200 at the last 3 bars we went to...why would we spent it here? THE SERVERS WERE PEEVED WE EVEN WALKED IN...teach your servers how to treat people who walk in - you lost out on $250 worth of business...see you never. I exaggerate not...we spent $340 at gaslight cuz it was on the way home, and they took us in. We will tell our friends not to come here...bye!
We wanted to go to second city for the comedy history. It was a fun time. The tickets were reasonably priced. The quality of the talent and the show is always going to be a little hit or miss but that’s what you should expect. They try things and some works and some doesn’t. Service is very good in the theater. Overall great experience.
The workshops here are great, the shows are pretty good too. Some world class people have come through these doors and the energy of the casts cant be ignored. Theyre trying really hard every show and clearly love it.The workshops were well paced and the instructors were knowledgeable working actors, which makes a big difference.
Visiting to Augusta with my friend, he was eager to introduce me into the downtown culture of a Augusta. He has recently obtained a job here in the tech world and stays downtown, so downtown Augusta is basically his home. We go to the distillery to check it out, especially since I love a great drink. We see there are people sitting at the bar and then a Caucasian family of three enter. So we ask the gentleman who opened the door for them were the open he says they’re closed. So I asked him, where they were going since they’re we’re closed . He stutters then finally gets out that “they were family “ . They are open online as well as if you call they are. Stay away from racist in Georgia !!
I was a guest for the first time and I am amazed by its history, it’s atmosphere, it’s style, it’s audience, it’s staff and it’s vibe. It’s amazing. The main stage is quite big and still very intimate. Lots of interaction with other guests and with the performers. The staff is fantastic. They helped me out with a little problem and no question was too much or stayed unanswered. A must go for all who love to laugh and just feel good. I enjoyed my best night in Chicago so far.
The comedy is superbly fantastic, and very witty! Many of the performers at Second City have gone on to star in SNL, shows, Movies and many other things. Drinks are a little pricey, but you can get a nice souvenir glass for the beer! The main stage seats just enough people to make it feel like a decent sized crowd while it also seeming like personalized comedy! I highly recommend stopping in for a show!
Wow. Just wow. Was expecting a old historical building. No. They take comedy seriously and this place was a Mecca. Went for a Thursday night improv show. Just amazing. Hilarious. Loved the angel that the Hispanic group took and - the main act; who woulda thought that improv is amazing with just two people. Ahh-mazed.Enjoyed the bar afterwards; great service!
We saw Do You Believe In Madness on an actors last night, so we got an extended 3rd act. The entire show was hilarious. The seating was little cramped, but the show was entertaining enough that we didnt notice how cramped it was until intermission. Expect to pay premium prices for food and drink as you would at most theatres. Overall it was a must see show with a great cast.
We saw talented actors who were creative and funny. However, they had material which was too disrespectful toward certain religious faiths.I understand that comedians use a wide variety of material which is bound to be borderline offensive to someone. I get it; its the nature of comedy. You cant go there if you are overly sensitive. And as performers, its impossible to make everyone happy.However, they seem to only target one group in ways that were over the limit. It would be okay if they made fun of religious peoples idiosyncratic behaviors, but instead they actually mocked the core beliefs. That which is viewed as sacred.Is it possible to make fearless comedy without targeting and mocking only certain groups of people?Also, is it possible to have a more organized line before the doors open? Perhaps a sign that says, the line starts here.
Had a wonderful time watching Do You Believe in Madness? Tears of laughter! Would love to go back to watch another show next time I’m town. Also, their french fries are great.
Amazing performances youll never forget. Even if you think youre not a comedy club person, you will definitely enjoy going. They offer food and drink during the show. Sometimes theyll interact with the audience, so if thats youre thing, make sure to speak loud
JC One Liner Review: Comedy starts here.I had a great time here with a group of friends watching a stand-up. We took a tour of this place and learned that you could take a stand-up comedy class.There is a good amount of history of how many actors and actresses have gone through this comedy club - for example, Tina Fey or Steve Carell.Heck, you don’t have to learn or know anything about this place because it is an excellent choice for a date night or a group of friends.Tips: A cup of beer was over $10 - not even a glass, just in a plastic cup around 10oz. There is definitely a theater premium.
Fantastic comedy shows and lively atmosphere.. Admittedly, the drinks and food during the show were expensive but well worth the price to create an unforgettable night! The experience was worth every penny. The show was great, and waiters were highly attentive without feeling intrusive. Dark lighting with a cool vibe. I took home a souvenir glass as a treasured memory from an amazing night in Chicago.
The Second City proved to me why it is hallowed ground for comedians.The improv sketches were hilarious. We saw Grin from Fear to Fear, which was an outstanding show with lots of social commentary and mental health issues.The performers were dead on and made everyone in the crowd laugh. They also had an incredible amount of energy.I would recommend going to catch a show if you are in town.
Love the Second City comedy club! This was my first time at the Chicago location but I frequent the Toronto location. The main stage review was hilarious. This go round I saw Dream Freaks Fall from Space! Go see it while you can! Do buy tickets ahead of time to save yourself some time and guarantee a spot. If going with a large party they are great at accommodating and seating you all together! Drink specials were very good and food is decent. Great visist for a fun night out with friends and a must stop if visiting Chicago!
We went there for the first time about 6 years ago, and loved it. Unfortunately, our last couple of visits were not that great. The crew went sideways with their jokes, you can tell that there is one person driving the whole team directionally and she is catering to her own beliefs of societal wellbeing and she is not very funny. It still makes a good night on the town, but you don’t leave tired of laughter anymore. I guess what I’m saying - don’t have high expectations.
I have been many times, and the comedy never disappoints. This time, I brought my two adult sons, and it was their first time. They really liked the entertainment. We went to the Sunday brunch show. The food was incredible.My only complaint is that they squeeze you in tightly. Literally no elbow room!
Had a great time watching my friend trying her first stand-up with a team. Was really fun.
I know the shows vary greatly here. And the show we saw this time around was not on the mainstage.But even considering that, I wasnt impressed by our show, Grinning from Fear to Fear. Everything seemed very forced. I did appreciate the effort to use comedy to discuss some important topics, but it just fell flat in my opinion. But who knows, maybe I was just too tired and sober to appreciate it fully!
I do like Second City overall, however it feels like it’s become corporate and about the money. Class prices have shot up dramatically and you can take classes at other places for much cheaper with the same quality of instruction. Frankly, I’ve stopped taking classes there as prices have went up $50 to $100 per class from just December! I’m sorry, but I find this greedy as so many people who attend there do not have much money. It’s clear that second city is doing well, so why such a steep increase? You can literally take the same class for 175 to 295 other places; second city is 375-395, why?They put on the appearance of being a woke, progressive organization, but there’s nothing woke about high prices for people of limited means. It’s like smiling while twisting the knife.I know second city will respond with a very friendly and professional answer - especially in a world where too many people value presentation over substance - butthe facts speak for themselves - it’s all about cashing in on the name.
Comedy was a bit on and off the night I was there, but thats how sketch comedy is. The crowd ranged from stuffy religions conservatives to loud fireman bros to college kids and their parents. This was very easy to get tickets and had good options. Seating is tight! We got there early, had good seats, but I started getting back cramps immediately, and very tall boyfriend was both crumpled up from the small chairs stacked tight and the guilt that people behind wouldnt be able to see around him at all. We asked if we could be reseated, since it was early, they said yes. Waiter for drinks was pretty attentive. Good way to spend an evening!
Went to the late night Mainstage Revue with my brothers and had a great time. They were all hilarious and super quick witted. Ill definitely be back next time Im in town!
What a hilarious show. I had a great time with my wife. Would definitely recommend for a date night or with a group of friends
Growing up, SNL and SCTV was just beginning, and a whole new world of TV was created. While visiting Chicago, there was three things I wanted to do: see a live show at second city, catch a game a wrigley field, and eat deep dish pizza. The first night when I arrived I purchased tickets to see a show a second city in the non feature room. It didn’t matter what show was being performed, the comedy is fantastic. Also, check out the bar 1959, to reminisce about the cast that has graced the stage over the many years. If you like comedy, do yourself a favour and catch a show at Second City.
We went and saw She the People and were in tears from laughing so hard throughout the show. These women were open and honest, vulnerable and understandable, and also wildly hilarious! Thank you so much for a wonderful evening!
Fun evening out with the family. The actors/comics were hilarious! They serve appetizer type finger foods, which were very good, and of course, beverages.
Absolutely a must when in town! The cast, crew, and service where all amazing! Loved every second of it, and cannot wait to go again! A+++
Absolutely not my scene. People seemed nice though and if you like that sort of thing I’m sure it was good. Well out the way though.
The show was awesome and so very funny and I did appreciate being moved closer to the stage but did NOT appreciate being told not to laugh so loud by the girl in the sound booth! The second time she came out she said we were prematurely laughing and we needed to try not to do that I think I will demand my paid for seats next time and pass on the “upgrade”!
I used to love this place - it was on point and still had the trendy feel to it. Now they have 3, maybe 4 shows going on at all times, and I dont feel like its the same quality. Maybe I have to try it again, but for the price point I am sure there are other options.
Wonderful comedy if you look at what the show entails ahead of time. Some can tackle political or social issues but if you want to avoid that (like myself) you can and the show will still be amazing!
We went to see the after hours improv show and it was fantastic! The venue is intimate and personal and the cast was incredible. Would highly recommend! It was the best thing we did in our weekend in Chicago.
Great show, but, nobody asked me if Id like a drink until intermission, so I left and went to a pub across the street. They were doing improv there as well...
Fantastic skits, and the improv is hilarious - go on a. Monday to get the free extra third act, where they practise future sketches. Well worth the price for 3 hours of entertainment
They’re pretty funny if you like their humor. They have lots of shows and stages, but it was a nice atmosphere. If you don’t like audience interaction then sit closer to the back.
We had a blast laughing our butts off!
Hilarious one word, my cheeks are still hurtingThis place is full of so much talent that certainly it has or four to five decades of historyThis place is your rite of passage to the city of ChicagoIm very happy that I was there to witness the greats in actionI saw a show and the main stage on November 7th 2018
Was GREAT. A must if your in Chicago. Had a great time and plan on returning during my next trip
LOVE the shows. Ive been a few times and always recommend people to go if theyre ever in Chicago!
Great show at a great price. Buy tickets early because they sell out quickly. Fun to think you may be seeing the next big name in comedy.
Went there last night, it was a great experience! Will definitely return, enjoyed “Do you believe in madness ? “ scenes !
To cut a long story short they put on some fantastic shows and definitely worth checking out.Many household names have come out of Second City and you can see why. The improv shows are brilliant. The restaurant and bar is pretty decent too and the staff and performers often hang out here.
You should really educate your staff that not all disabilities are visible. We were given attitude from your hostess Jen, who was clearly irritated we came in from the other entrance (elevator entrance) she scoffed and asked another employee well do they even have a cane or wheelchair? Completely disgusted with her ignorance.
If you visit Chicago you cannot miss an improv show at Second City or at IO. Comfortable seating plus full bar and food. Great fun at late night shows too.
LOVED THIS! When I mentioned to a friend that o was visiting Chicago, one of the first places she recommended was The Second City Comedy Club. We saw grinning from fear, HILARIOUS! Great show and service. Wonderful!
I saw Grinning From Fear to Fear and it was a great show. There were so many moments where I cried from laughter. The venue itself is nice and I dont think you could go wrong with any show.
Went during a girls weekend trip to Chicago and saw the all female show “She the People.” It’s a wonderful space and the staff have got the seating and service down to an art. The show was spectacular and I highly recommend to everyone!
Was a really great experience! Definitely incredibly entertaining. It is very cool and I love the history of the people that have came from there.
I saw Grinning from Fear to Fear, and I could not be more pleased with my choice. The cast was excellent and worked with impromptu audience participation well, even with challenging audience suggestions. The show was a little raunchy in one scene, but, other than coarse language, it should be great for any adult to see. There was topical humor, jokes relating to Chicago happenings and people, and quips about both sides of the political spectrum, which I was impressed by. I kept my playbill and would not be surprised if one of the cast members made it big. They were a talented group. I would highly recommend seeing them.
A fantastic show. Spend the extra couple of dollars to sit on the rail and thank me for it later.
Overall it was pretty funny. I think they may have been testing out some new material or it wasnt my sense of humor, but the rest of the audience ate it up. I think it is well worth the experience. The venue they perform is a really good setup and works very well for the show. I would definitely go back and hope for a little better material. That being said, I was not disappointed. If you come to Chicago or live here, definitely check it out.
One of the best comedy clubs in the world!!!! It’s hilarious every time. A must-do on a visit in Chicago.
I am editing a one star review that I supposedly left 11 mos ago. The only time I was at Second City Chicago was in the early 2000s, and I still quote some of the lines from the show.
10/10 Recommend going to The Best of Second City. SO FUNNY.
Went to meet about setting up a few events and an office training class. Brooke is really amazing! Highly recommend them for office training classes.
Belly laughing good time!
Amazing show! It was our first time in Chicago and the show we watched was the perfect end cap to our trip. Improv artists were all great and kept the audience engaged the whole show. The audience interaction was exceptionally enjoyable. I’ve been recommending Second City to all my friends!
Friendly waitstaff, cool venue. Saw “Grinning from Fear to Fear” and WOW. The energy and humor put out by the cast and musical talent alike was phenomenal. I live out of town but next time I’m up in the Windy City I want to see this again!
Was great to be at the Alma mater of some of my comedic heroes. I hope to be back again sometime soon.
The shows are ok or sometimes good... the space though is worse than a united basic economy. Come on ... for the price of the tickets and the vending machine quality drinks priced as champaign you could do better ...
Love catching a standup/improv show here whenever I can.
What you are stating is not true. We purchased premium seats 3 months ago and 3 days before the event, we are being contacted by YOU. WHY? - because we were told we could not sit at the seats that we purchased and were given some lame excuse about being uncomfortable and potentially falling off a platform which is ridiculous. Why were we called today THREE times? - because we did not want to go into general admission and we did not want a refund the first two calls; and, the THIRD CALL we were told either general admission or refund. Like we want to go to your venue now, PLEASE. Finally, if you are going to make misrepresentations at least be logical.Sorry, not true to the reply to my original post below. First off, tickets are non-refundable so why did we get a refund. Its because we were told either general admission or refund. We said we did not care that there was no aisle available. You either over-booked or bumped us. You are not acting like a professional venue. Also, if there are no aisle seats, why didnt you explain this at the time of purchase. I noticed that the seats went back up for sale and when I told you this, they were two minutes later sold out. NICE TRY, we got bumped.ZERO STARS, IF COULD. We ordered premium tickets 3 months ago to see Margaret Trudeau on this Sunday, May 12, 2019. We purchased the rail seating with a preference to an aisle seat. We received three phone calls today from Dominick stating that we would be more comfortable in general admission. He said we would be uncomfortable sitting at the rail because we could not be guaranteed an aisle seat in the rail seating and that we might fall off - lawsuit city if that is true. We said thats okay but Dominick talked to the manager Danny and said we could only have either general admission or a refund. WOW, we got bumped. All animals are equal but some animals are more equal than others.
I didn’t know what to expect going into the show but it was so good I when twice and the other show the next day. The actors was skill and knew all their lines.
One word, great. Would recommend adding the koozie, my canned beverages have never tasted better!
Awesome. Nuff said.
Great venue, great show. Highly Recommend.
Seriously funny sketch comedy acts! Second City is a comedy staple. Look at the list of alumni on your way into the theater this place harbors a lot of talent! I have been year after year and always thoroughly enjoy myself. Stick around for the improv set offered every night but Friday! They have a wonderful craft beer selection as well as placement to a few other nearby craft bars! What are you waiting for? Get some tickets!
She The People was so much fun. We really enjoyed the show- very talented women! The reason I’m giving three stars is bc the service was terrible. We had to ask for a server to come take our order. But to get one, we had to ask three different people. And finally, after about an hour, once the show had already started, somebody finally took interest in taking our money. Wow.
Its an Institution with GREAT performances. We laughed a lot.... But:1) it was cold. My girlfriend (and guests around us) had to wear a jacket. I ask the waiter and he replied `yes. Its very cold in here. Ehm... Ok?2) the prices. I understand that the beverage prices in a theater are higher then usual - but 9$ for a small beer (it was Bud light or Miller or so..) is a number I expect in the Hancock Tower, not at Second City. I saw guests around me having softdrinks because beer or wine were too expensive. I was looking forward to enjoy a nice show with some drinks - but not $20 for two bud light.3) both waiters started to collect checks at the same time in the same row (during a quite performance). It was loud and a lot of peep peep peeps from the credit card maschine. And - how can I say it - Because of the credit card maschines they had to bend over to the guests what ended in me having two waiter-butts directly in front of me blocking my view.
Still one of the best places in the city to see a live comedy show.
Hilarious improv, seating left a little to be desired but great space
Great show at the main stage! Its part sketch part improv, and the 6 great actors on stage were brilliant. Highly recommend as a couples or group outing. Theres also good food and drinks, and I took home a great tall souvenir glass.
If Your visiting or live in Chicago, you have to visit here, the BEST sketch/improv comedy youll see anywhere, worth every dollar! Definitely coming back if we visit Chicago again.
We had a blast. Havent been to SC in 10+ years, loved it! Algorithm nation was a good mix of general comedy and political satire.
Get in here any chance you can. This is the brand of Improv that makes Improv a timeless experience, rather than a fleeting fad. Every event unique, great audience participation, and splendid at-the-table food & drinks, serve to produce one of the best experiences available anywhere.
The show I attended was funny as hell. I will definitely go back
Fantastic improv show! We had never been to an improv show before, and we were absolutely rolling in laughter. Thanks for a wonderful show!
My daughter gave me The Second City improvisation A class for my birthday. This gift changed my life. I discovered I have talent as a comedian and I am valuable as an immigrant, I can make people laugh.The Second City teachers are very talented and the most important quality is that they support you as you are. There is no wrong in comedy because many times a mistake makes things funnier.Improvisation takes the pressure out of you because you dont need to plan. I also learned that you dont need to try to be funny, you just need to be you. Therefore, being funny is in your genetics and you will never know if you have what it takes to be a comedian or not until you try The Second City.The price of each course, from level A-E, is around $300 but they have payment plans where you pay weekly. Each class is once a week for 3 hours. When you complete level E you will have a show with your classmates where you have the opportunity to shine in the stage in front of the public.After you complete level E you need to audition for the Conservatory which is the next learning level for serious comedians. This is a 6 level program. Not everyone becomes a famous comedian like Stephen Colbert but for sure you will have fun while trying.I fully recommend you sign up for Improv A class!
Great place to go on any occasion. Great atmosphere with awesome food and average prices. I had lamp chops for entry and it was delicious and my wife had crab legs and there perfect. Oysters and mussels as appetizer totally recommend those two. Definitely coming back
SOO funny!! I had an amazing time. Great cast, really good skits, and some of the best improv I have ever seen. A must go!
Humor was good, staff friendly. Ordered 60 oz of Long Island ice tea and got no alcohol but it sure was a nice shade of blue? Bummer because the drinks ruined the evening, feeling like you were taken and of course that was not the waitstaff’s fault so no one heard the complaint. Hey just do yourself a favor and order the premixed bottled drinks.
So this is what improv is had a great time a most do in Chi Town.
The improv group was hilarious, the drinks were great and I got a souvenir glass. Such a great evening!
Grinning From Fear to Fear is a fantastic show. If you can get tickets, I highly recommend you go for a night. Great energy, great drinks, and a great venue
Legendary, and with good reason. The 107th revue cast is spectacular. I expect big things from them.
Amazing comedy show! Such talent. One of my favorite things from my trip to Chicago.