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, FEB. 2
Groundhog Day IPA Release Party
2646 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-342-5555
Whether or not the furry little rodent sees his shadow on his namesake holiday, the historic movie house will be serving up freshly tapped limited-batch Groundhog Day IPA from Burnt City Brewing, along with specialty beer cocktails and door prizes ahead of a screening of the 1993 Bill Murray comedy. Party starts at 8 p.m. Movie showing at 10:30 p.m. $8.50. Tickets: thelogantheatre.com
FRIDAY, FEB. 3
Finding Their Roots
1501 N. Kingsbury St. 312-929-2401
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Female comedy duo Catholic Guilt—Elizabeth Andrews and Mary Quinn—found plenty of material for this sketch show on fall road trips back to their college towns. 10:30 p.m. $10. Tickets: ioimprov.com
#DateMe: An OK Cupid Experiment
230 W. North Ave. 312-662-4562
The popular show inspired by the real results of several not-so-real online dating profiles put out into the world returns with a new cast that includes Robyn Lynne Norris, Terrence Carey, Carisa Barreca, Dawn Bless, Sam Super and Greg Komorowski. 7 and 10 p.m. $26-$41. Tickets: upcomedyclub.com
SATURDAY, FEB. 4
Love Stories
956 W. Newport Ave. 773-270-3440
A different guest host opens up about a true personal story each week in this love-themed show, and the rest of the cast—including Rebecca Grossman, Ryan Finn, Sam Kyker, Mishell Livio, Katie Heath and more—takes that tale and runs with it. 9 p.m. $12. Tickets: underthegun.theater
Ink & Blood Live Writing Duels
651 W. Lake St. 312-475-1355
Whoever said “The pen is mightier than the sword” would probably be super into this live competition that pits writers against each other in a battle of comedic wit, complete with complimentary drinks provided by sponsor New Holland Brewing. Donations and tips will benefit a literacy organization to be announced. 6:30-9 p.m. Free. More information: facebook.com/inkandbloodduels
MONDAY, FEB. 6
Victor Alpha: Veteran Artists
3209 N. Halsted St. 773-871-3793
Lydia House and Cam Dupre produce this monthly showcase designed to bridge the gap between veterans and civilians through a variety of acts. 8 p.m. $5 suggested donation. Tickets: theplaygroundtheater.com
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 8
Otherside: Diverse Comedy Hour
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Judy’s Beat Lounge at Second City
230 W. North Ave. 312-337-3992
LGBTQ performers and comedians of color celebrate their “otherness” in this showcase that features stand-up, improv, storytelling, sketch, musical numbers and more. Elias Rios hosts. 8:30 p.m. $10. Tickets: secondcity.com
Want to see your show in Set the Scene? Us too! Send details to Morgan Olsen at [email protected] for consideration.