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, March 31
Broken Record: A Contemporary Musical
1225 W. Belmont Ave. 773-327-5252
New ensemble Broken Record’s debut musical-improv comedy hybrid tackles topics like bullying, body image, mental health and more through five simultaneous storylines. 8 p.m. $12-$15. Tickets: stage773.com
Friday, April 1
Come as You Aren’t
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3914 N. Clark St. 773-230-4770
A sketch revue with a music and mixed-media twist, this production enlists ensemble members Elias Rios, Holly Lambert, Luke Peters, Jenna Steege, Audrey Beauchamp and Michael Silver to explore all things intimate and awkward. 10 p.m. $12. Tickets: pubhousetheatre.com
The Defiant Thomas Brothers
The Second City Blackout Cabaret
230 W. North Ave. 312-337-3992
Not actual brothers Seth and Paul Thomas—who once won best alternative act at Colorado’s Comedy Arts Festival alongside Flight of the Conchords—bring their critically acclaimed sketches and songs back to Second City for a monthlong run. 7:30 p.m. $15. Tickets: secondcity.com
Hilarity for Charity
1160 E. 55th St. 866-811-4111
Aiming to “Kick Alz in the Ballz,” this showcase benefits Seth Rogen’s Alzheimer’s awareness charity and features comedy performances hosted by the University of Chicago’s Off-Off Campus and Occam’s Razor. 7 p.m. $5-$10. Tickets: the-revival.com
Saturday, April 2
Third Wheel
3209 N. Halsted St. 773-871-3793
Tom McGuane and Bruce Phillips, two longtime pals and improvisers, add a third performer to throw off their dynamic. Comedy teams Cop Squad and International Stinger open. 9 p.m. $10. Tickets: theplaygroundtheater.com
Sunday, April 3
T. Murph Presents
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500 N. LaSalle St. 312-836-0499
Comedian T. Murph introduces a variety of comedy friends, along with dancers, poets and other acts, in this monthly showcase. 7:30 p.m. $20. Tickets: comedybarchicago.com
Gwendolyn Purdom is a RedEye contributor.
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