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, AUG. 11
Chicago Nerd Comedy Festival
1225 W. Belmont Ave. 773-327-5252
This four-day festival returns for its fourth year with headliners Jackson Bird and Team StarKid plus tons of skits, improv and more all weekend. With six shows kicking things off on Thursday—including a performance by The Stuntmen (8 p.m.) with riffs on action movies—there’s something for everyone to geek out about. Times vary. $10 per show, $30-$75 for passes. Tickets: stage773.com
‘Everything is Fine’
The Beat Lounge at Second City
230 W. North Ave. 312-337-3992
Jake Farrington and Michelle Davey play besties Kathy and Nancy, two women of a “certain age” who embark on a weekend getaway that takes a terrible, gin-soaked turn for the worse. 8:30 p.m. $13. Tickets: secondcity.com
FRIDAY, AUG. 12
‘Katie Rich & Holly Laurent are Joan & Ro’
1501 N. Kingsbury St. 312-929-2401
Two Chicago comedy veterans get together for a set opened by social justice musical group So Chi Voices and improv team Super Human. 8 p.m. $10. Tickets: ioimprov.com
‘Baby Wants Candy’
2540 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-935-6100
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The audience shouts out the title of a musical that’s never been performed and the crew on stage, accompanied by a full band, crafts an hourlong on-the-spot musical. What could possibly go wrong? 10:30 p.m. $7.50-$15. Tickets: babywantscandy.com
SATURDAY, AUG. 13
‘The Church of Hip Hop’
3209 N. Halsted St. 773-871-3793
This sketch variety show takes audiences to a fake funeral for Kanye West. Pastor Kim Kardashian leads the ceremony with the help of Chicago rappers, speakers and poets and eventually tries to bring Yeezus back to life. 10:30 p.m. $10. Call ahead to reserve tickets or purchase at the door.
SUNDAY, AUG. 14
Colin Kane
3175 N. Broadway 773-327-3175
Leave your parents at home for this naughty R-rated show that delves into sex, relationships and topics that aren’t appropriate for the dinner table. Sit in the front row at your own risk. 7 p.m. $15-$25 with a two-drink minimum. Tickets: laughfactory.com
Want to see your show in Set the Scene? Us too! Send details to Morgan Olsen at [email protected] for consideration.