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, May 12
A Red Line Runs Through It
1608 N. Wells St. 312-337-3992
This new revue has been collecting rave reviews both for the diversity of its cast and for cracking jokes only Chicagoans will get. 8 p.m. $23-$29. Tickets: secondcity.com
Friday, May 13
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This Great Nation, Much Enduring
1225 W. Belmont Ave. 773-327-5252
As the presidential race ramps up, Chicago Slam Works Ensemble Theatre is hopping on the election season train with a satire that follows a young senator as he tries to connect with voters in the Midwest via the troupe’s signature combination of spoken word poetry, music, sketch comedy and drama. 8:15 p.m. $20. Tickets: chicagoslamworks.com
The On Dee eL Variety Hour
1160 E. 55th St. 866-811-4111
Chicago actor and improviser Andel Sudik hosts this ever-changing line-up of sketch comedians, improvisers, musicians, drag performers and more. 9:30 p.m. $5-$10. Tickets: the-revival.com
Saturday, May 14
Attend the Tale of Danny Tanner: A Full House Musical
3209 N. Halsted St. 773-871-3793
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen may have been able to escape the nostalgic grip of “Full House,” but let’s face it, the rest of us never will. Case in point: This comedic musical that examines the dark side of Danny Tanner. Have mercy. 10:30 p.m. $10. Tickets: theplaygroundtheater.com
The Power Half-Hour: Beer-Powered Comedy
851 W. Belmont Ave. 773-697-9693
Think a college dorm room power hour, only with this show you’ll get a one-minute shot of comedy with your booze. The half-hour show features 30 sketches, 30 sips and Cigarette Sandwich performers Andy Bolduc, Tim Lamphier, Charles Pettitt and Case Blackwell. 11:55 p.m. $8. Tickets: theannoyance.com
Gwendolyn Purdom is a RedEye contributor.
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