1. Gorilla Tango Theater
If you need a better lure than a Mario Brothers-themed burlesque comedy, we can't help you. Boobs and Goombas, (we're serious) is just one of the performances you can catch at Gorilla Tango. We're in. Plus, we're generally fans of any place that will let us imbibe while we're being entertained. GTT is way more than a comedy club. For anyone craving the stand-up spotlight, the venue will let you put on your own show, provided you're legit and can guarantee them a professional production. And, you know, ticket sales. In other words, leave the sock puppets at home. Can't decide how to spend girls' night this week? Share this story on Facebook and we'll take care of it. One reader will win a 4-pack of tickets to Gorilla Tango, on us.
Gorilla Tango Theater, 1919 North Milwaukee Avenue (at Western Avenue, and just across the street from Margie's!); 773-598-4549.
2. iO Chicago Theater
What's better than being funny? Being funnier than eveyone else. Since 1981, iO (formerly ImprovOlympic), has been laying Chicago in the aisles. Even better? They can teach you how to get in on the action, too. iO offers classes in improvisation to bring out your inner (and hopefully funny) performer. If you're not really the on-stage type, try your hand at iO's script writing program instead. This is one venue that hosts shows every night of the week, so you know where to find a good laugh, right now. iO Chicago Theater, 3541 North Clark Street (just South of Addison Street); 773-880-0199.
3. Chicago Underground Comedy
Here we go Chicago, the real deal. Just a comic, a microphone, and hopefully no rotten tomatoes being hurled toward the stage. Chicago Underground Comedy boasts some of the best stand-up you can find in Windy City limits. CUC comics aren't afraid to push the limits, in other words, no Chicago topic is safe. Running for office? You're on deck. Saving parking spaces with lawn furniture? Prepare to be laughed at. Shows are Tuesday nights only at The Beat Kitchen, 2100 West Belmont Avenue (at Hoyne Avenue); Email Chicago Underground Theater for more info.
4.Off-Off Campus
Let's hear it for the kids. Okay maybe not kids, we're pretty sure they can all vote. Nonetheless, Off-Off Campus is an improvisation and sketch comedy group composed of University of Chicago students. The club started in 1986, and it's still running, making it the second oldest student comedy club in the country. This is a student gig, so all us graduates get to cash in on the fact that the performers are really trying to make their mark (with serious comedic effort), and we can enjoy the show for only $4. Off-Off Campus' last quarterly review was Leave It To Beiber (let that sink in), and the spring review is currently in rehearsal. Keep an eye on their website for first dibs.
5. The Second City
We leave you in classic style, with the venue that's been dubbed "A Comedy Empire" by the New York Times. We'd list all the amazing talent that entered The Second City only to go on to fame and fortune, but we'd miss our next birthday before we finished. This is the classic spot to see Chicago funny, and we highly recommend it for impressing the hell out of your in-laws, clients, or potential significant others. Get tickets in advance, months in advance, to ensure smooth sailing. Go forth and laugh, you have our blessing. The Second City, 1616 North Wells Street (at North Avenue); 312-337-3992.