Second City alum Abby Sher Book Release Event – Friday, February 26!

Abby Sher, Second City alum and acclaimed author of Amen, Amen, Amen: Memoir of a Girl who Couldn't Stop Praying, will host a free event at Flourish Studios (3020 N Lincoln Avenue, Chicago) on Friday, February 26th at 7:00pm. Abby will be joined by fellow alums from The Second City who will improvise using parts of Abby's book for inspiration. This performance is part of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week and is being sponsored by Erasing the Distance and Flourish Studios. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres served, and fun and interesting prizes will be raffled off to support mental health education.

Reserve your seat.

Check out our fun new ad for Rush Limbaugh! The Musical

Check out our fun new ad for Rush Limbaugh! The Musical in this week's issue of TimeOut Magazine.

To check out a reasonable review of Rush Limbaugh! The Musical, check out Jason Heidemann's review.

Book your tickets for this alleged "torrent of venom".

Three-Day Adult Improv & Writing Intensive – Space Still Available!

Want to immerse yourself in some Second City Training, but don't have eight weeks? Intensive classes are three days of fast-paced improvisation and/or writing training for those who can't take a weeklong program or want a quick brush up on skills. Choose a schedule of all-improv, all-writing or improv-writing combination of classes. The next intensive being offered is Improv & Writing Intensive - 10 AM - 4 PM March 31st-April 2nd. Morning principles and processes of improvisation class and afternoon introduction to sketch comedy technique class. Tuition includes a Second City show. LKearn more or register.

Rush Receives More Rave Reviews

The great reviews keep coming for "Rush Limbaugh! The Musical." Larry Bommer with Chicago Free Press calls it "raunchy and irrepressible...the not so guilty pleasure here is to watch six brave souls stand up to the country’s biggest bully and emerge triumphant." Check out the entire review.

Dear Diary, I Want to Read More about Lauren Ash

Well now you can! Every day this week, Second City Mainstage cast member, Lauren Ash, reports back to her home country about her musings and happenings in her adopted hometown of Chicago. Read all about what she has to say.

Lauren can be seen in The Second City Mainstage's latest show, "Taming of the Flu." More information

THE SECOND CITY MARCH BREAK CAMP!

Check out our March break camp, MARCH 15-19TH; AGES 10-17

Dive into the fundamentals of improvisation. Explore character, storytelling and fun!

Our workshops help develop spontaneity and creativity while building communication and listening skills.

All campers get a tour of The Second City Mainstage and see the Education Company's revue Teacher Will This Be on the Test featuring our Ed Co's resident cast. Our March Break Camp is perfect for new comers or experienced improvisers. Campers are divided up according to age.

$380.00 +GST REGISTRATION ON NOW! 416.340.7270

Second City Theatricals nominated for MECCA Award.

Second City Theatricals created an original physical theatre production in Montreal this past summer called "Reverie." Directed by Dexter Bullard, the piece blended physical scenes from Second City’s archives with new work developed by the director and cast. The show has been nominated for an award for Best Visiting Production for the Montreal English Critics Circle Awards. The company is looking to remount the production in 2010.

Second City Toronto Announces Latest Revue

The Second City, North America's premiere comedy institution, is proud to announce their new revue, Second City for Mayor! Hey, why not us? We're well known, popular, good looking and have lots of secret girlfriends. Second City for Mayor is a fast-paced, hilarious revue of comic sketches, songs and improvisation featuring up-to-the-minute social and political satire. It's the funniest night you can spend in Toronto...well, at least until the city council starts serving beer.

It's time we had a city government we can laugh at for the right reasons. And Second City for Mayor delivers the laughs by blending The Second City's famous sketch comedy with director Melody A. Johnson's playful and artistic theatrical style. Returning to the stage in Second City for Mayor are Rob Baker, Dale Boyer, Adam Cawley, Caitlin Howden and Reid Janisse. Joining the cast is a two time Canadian Comedy Award nominee (Dreadwood, Battleawesome Awesomestar) and member of the Second City Touring Company Mr. Kris Siddiqi.

To purchase tickets visit www.secondcity.com/toronto or call 416.343.0011 now!

Meet New Cast Member - Mary Sohn

The cast and crew in the The Second City e.t.c. have just started writing a new show and in the process have welcomed new cast members Tim Baltz, Brendan Jennings and Mary Sohn. Mary Sohn, a former Champaign, IL resident, was featured in yesterday's issue of the Champaign Gazette. Check out the feature.

Now, you can catch Mary Sohn in "Studs Terkel's Not Working" through the end of March. For tickets, visit our box office. Their new show will open towards the end of April.

Ithamar Enriquez to appear in upcoming episode of Hawthorne!

Last week Ithamar Enriquez spent six days on the set of TNT's smash hit "Hawthorne", starring Jada Pinkett Smith. In the second episode of Season 2, "Road Narrows", Ithamar plays a survivor of a multi-vehicle car accident who struggles to get his young daughter medical attention. His frustration grows as they continue to wait because more seriously injured patients are being seen first. Ithamar said of the experience, "I had a bloody face and I did a lot of screaming at famous people playing nurses and doctors."

TNT has not announced the air dates for Season 2 yet. But you can check out the official website to find out when Ithamar's episode will air.

Ithamar, a current instructor and performer at The Second City Hollywood, moved to Los Angeles in the fall of 2008 and continues to find success on both the small and large screen. In addition to Hawthorne he has recently appeared on The E! Networks, "Reality Hell" and the critically acclaimed show, "Better Off Ted" on ABC.

In Chicago, Ithamar performed in The Second City Mainstage shows; War! Now in its 4th Smash Year, Between Barack and a Hard Place, and No Country for Old White Men. In addition to teaching at The Second City Hollywood, he performs on a regular basis with his very popular show "Delicious Moments" every Tuesday night at 10pm. He does this hilarious two-man improvised show with Second City Alumni, Brian Shortall.

Can't wait until Ithamar's episode of Hawthorne comes out to see him perform? You are in luck! Sunday, February 28th The Second City Hollywood will have a free screening of "War! Now In Its 4th Smash Year." (Cast: Brian Gallivan, Molly Erdman, Joe Canale, Claudia Michelle Wallace, Ithamar Enriquez and Maribeth Monroe. Directed by Marc Warzecha.)

Rush Limbaugh! The Musical: Watch this video of an overzealous fan!

Rush Limbaugh! The Musical: This video proves Second City's new musical may cause Liberals to act out in an overzealous "Lefty" manner:

Buy tickets now
www.secondcity.com/rush
Friend us on Facebook
Read "Rush's" blog! Mark Sutton will be writing about his experiences playing as the title character throughout the performance's run.

Second City Planner: Couples Night in Old Town

Second City Planner: Couples Night in Old Town
Recommendation: Parties of 4-8
Best Night: Thursday

Here's our recommendation for a fun Couples Night in Old Town:

• 6:00p: Corcoran's (1615 N. Wells St) Meet up after work for a quick pint @ Old Town's official pub. Say hi to John and get warmed up with a quick brew for the evening.
• 6:30p: Dinner @ Dinotto's (215 W. North Ave) - Enjoy a delicious Italian dinner at one of our favorite neighborhood restaurants. The atmosphere is warm and the staff is super friendly and attentive.
• 8:00p: Watch "Studs Terkel's Not Working" (The Second City e.t.c. Theater - 1608 N. Wells) - A winner of three Jeff Awards including Best Revue, this is a perfect show for anyone who loves Chicago. Book your tickets now - performances run through March.

We can help you with your reservations! To book your dinner and show reservations, contact our friendly Box Office staff at 312-337-3992.

We'll see you soon!

"Rush Limbaugh! The Musical" brings in more rave reviews!

"Acting is superb...cast is rock solid"
Chicago Theater Blog

"balancing outrageous whimsy with harsh truth"
Steve Heisler, Chicago Reader

Click here for tickets
Click here for the Rush Page
Become a fan on Facebook
Read "Rush's" blog! Mark Sutton is writing about his experiences playing as the title character throughout the performance's run.

Second City gets in Scott Brown's truck!

Newly seated Senator Scott Brown caught The Second City's "Barack Stars" at the Woolly Mammoth Theatre in Washington DC last night - where the company is playing for 3 weeks. He even let the cast hop into the back of his pick up truck!

Second City Co-Founder Bernie Sahlins interviewed in New City Magazine

Second City Co-Founder Bernie Sahlins was interviewed yesterday in New City Magazine. In the interview, he discusses everything from Greek drama to the founding of The Second City. Bernie is directing a production of "Lysistrata" at the Victory Gardens Studio Theatre on February 21st and 22nd.

Register now for Spring Break Intensives - ages 11-18.

Spend your Spring Break at the Second City! In this week long intensive, participating students explore the world of comedy under the direction veteran industry professionals. Classes include improv in the morning and your choice of stand-up or singprov in the afternoon. Each course has students on their feet participating in exercises that develop stage presence, creativity, communication skills, patience, self-confidence and most importantly - fun! Classes are grouped by age and run March 29th - April 2nd. Registration is currently open. Make the most of your Spring Break and don’t miss out!

Summer 2010 Adult Immersion classes NOW ENROLLING!

Want to do something different this summer? Join us in Chicago for an Immersion class! Immersions are intensive, one or two-week long programs in Improvisation and Comedic Writing. Students of all experience/skill levels are welcome! Learn the art of improv and sketch writing, take advantage of the city’s rich theatre scene, and enjoy Chicago in the summer! We also offer a number of Specialty Immersion classes for more advanced students. The Immersion sessions run from 6/14 through 8/20 and are available every week. Visit the Immersion website for more details and registration information.

Barack Stars is back in DC!

The Second City's "Barack Stars" is making a return engagement at Washington DC's Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company. After a successful run last summer, the show once again descends upon the national's capital with performances through February 21st. The Washington Post gave "Barack Stars" a great review.

Happy President’s Day from The Second City!

Happy President's Day from The Second City! While this isn't generally a holiday associated with gifts, we’ve posted a special President's Day clip just for you featuring Second City alums, Brian Gallivan and Joe Canale as well as Ithamar Enriquez, Molly Erdman, Brad Morris and Amber Ruffin.

Another Valentine’s Day Tip and Video Clip From The Second City

Try a speed dating event on Valentine’s Day! Maybe you’ll end up with “the one.” Watch this video featuring Second City alums Brian Gallivan, Jean Villepique and Antoine McKay for instruction.

Or maybe you’ll end up with “the one that gave me herpes” or “the one that’s scared of commitment.” Skip it and bring a group of friends to The Second City Chicago Mainstage for “Taming of the Flu” instead!

Second City Alum Tina Fey is featured in this month's Vogue.

Second City Alum Tina Fey is featured in this month's Vogue. Check out the article and photo shoot.

Rush Limbaugh! The Musical Featured on Chicago Tonight

Second City Theatricals' new show, "Rush Limbaugh! The Musical" was featured on Wednesday's broadcast of WTTW's Chicago Tonight featuring Phil Ponce. Check it out at www.wttw.com.

Tickets for this Sunday's matinee performance are sold out! However, there are tickets available for Tuesday, February 16. For a complete schedule, visit secondcity.com.

Bill Utterback: 1931-2010

It’s with much sadness that we learned of the passing of our dear friend Bill Utterback on Monday February 8. For more than twenty five years, Bill created the signature caricatures for each resident Second City production in Chicago that line the lobby and hallways of the Wells Street theatre. We send our condolences to Bill’s wife Betty and the Utterback family. With respect to Bill and Betty’s wishes, no memorial service will be held

Today’s Valentine’s Tip From The Second City: You don’t have to be in a relationship to enjoy Valentine's Day.

Go home with a stranger. Watch this video featuring Mainstage cast members Lauren Ash and Brad Morris for instruction.

It's kind of like the lottery - you never know what you're going to get! However, maybe you should play it safe and just bring a friend to see "Shut Up and Show Us Your Tweets" on The Toronto Mainstage instead.

"Scriptless" begins Tuesday February 16th!

Catch the Second City cast in a no-holds-barred, seat of our pants, truly unscripted environment! You'll see a selection of favourite scenes from our hit show Shut Up and Show Us Your Tweets, plus brand new scenes, songs and off-the-cuff improvisation. Scriptless; is a unique comedy experience that brings today's headlines to life in a show that is literally different every night. Featuring The Second City's main stage cast Rob Baker, Dale Boyer, Adam Cawley, Caitlin Howden, Reid Janisse, and Kris Siddiqi.

Scriptless only runs until March 7th so don't miss out!

To purchase tickets visit www.secondcity.com/toronto or call 416.343.0011 now!

The Second City has raised a total of $28,197 for funds to be directed to the Red Cross for Haiti Relief.

In the immediate wake of this tragedy, The Second City challenged its staff to raise as much money as possible and pledged to match all funds collected. The Second City is thrilled to offer their donation to Red Cross Haiti relief in the US and Canada. By matching the funds donated by audience members and Second City staff in Chicago, Toronto and Hollywood, we are able to donate a grand total of $28,197.

In the last few weeks, The Second City has collected donations from audience members in Chicago and led community-wide initiatives in Toronto and Hollywood – including special performances featuring a plethora of Second City alumni. Staff members rallied to create these events and were thrilled with the generosity of their audiences. Due to Canadian government matching, the funds donated to Canadian Red Cross will also include an additional $9,599.61. Thank you to all who made this possible.

The Second City Hollywood Alumni and Grads appear in Super Bowl ads.

Congrats to Second City alumni Maribeth Monroe who appeared this weekend in a Super Bowl ad previewing her new movie with Jennifer Lopez, "The Back-up Plan." You can check out the ad here.

Also, congrats to Second City Hollywood graduate Jennifer Landa who is featured in a Bud Light Super Bowl ad. You can check it out here.

Way to represent, ladies!

Today’s Valentine’s Tip from The Second City: Order Dinner for Your Date!

Watch this video featuring Second City alums Brad Morris, Amber Ruffin and Ithamar Enriquez for instruction.

She may think it's very considerate, or she may think you’re a micromanaging pig. Maybe it's best not to put yourself at risk and bring her to see "The Best of The Second City" – and let her order her own food.

7-Day Shorts Project launches in Chicago!

After months of success in Hollywood, the 7-Day Shorts project is coming to the Chicago Training Center! Students, graduates, alumni & staff of The Second City are invited to participate every Tuesday night at 10:30pm in the brand new de Maat Theater. Each week, a set of original, two-minute comedy films are screened, a suggestion is acquired from the audience, and a group of Training Center faculty will improvise based on the suggestion. That same suggestion will inspire the following week's new set of short films. All filmmaking teams require at least one member of the extended Second City family. Final film DVDs are due each week by 6pm Monday at the Training Center office.

For the first week, 2/9, we will screen previous submissions from the Hollywood version of the 7-Day Shorts project. Tickets are $10, $1 for Training Center students & grads. The de Maat Theater is on the third floor of Piper's Alley, 1608 N. Wells. Space is limited!

"Rush Limbaugh! The Musical" Gets Another Rave Review

The Chicago Reader weighs in on the new hit show "Rush Limbaugh! The Musical." Read the review.

Another Great Valentine’s Tip from The Second City

Today's Valentine's Day Tip: Get creative and role play with your partner. Watch this video featuring Second City alums Brian Stack and Miriam Tolan for instruction.

Take a moment to live outside of your own little world and explore each other's deepest fantasies. If that gets too awkward, you should check out "Studs Terkel's Not Working" on The Second City Chicago e.t.c. Stage.

Great Valentine’s Tips and Clips from The Second City

All week long, as we lead up to Valentine's Day, The Second City will be posting a series of Valentine's tips and classic clips from past revues to help make your Valentine's Day a success.

Today's tip: Take a shower with your partner!
Watch this video for instruction featuring Second City alums Maribeth Monroe and Ithamar Enriquez. Just make sure you don't hog all the hot water. If that gets too uncomfortable, maybe you should check out "Taming of the Flu" at The Second City Chicago Mainstage instead.

Naked Fridays in The John Candy Box Theatre!

Strip down to the bare essentials of comedy with the JCB's newest night. Featuring music, sketch, improv and films from the Toronto Training Centre's Conservatory Grads and Alumni. Contributions to Second City's newest venture in viral videos will be screened every Friday. Second City student film makers screen their "2-minute shorts" based on an audience suggestion from the week before. Fridays at 9pm. Pay What You Can.

The Second City Training Centre Toronto is taking it on the road!

The downtown Toronto-based Training Centre is expanding by having a satellite introduction to improv class at The Niagara Falls Institute of Music & Arts. Two SC instructors will stay in Niagara for the two-weekend intensive. An adult class and a youth & teen class are available! The two weekend intensive starts February 19th.

For further details and pricing call The Registration Office at The Niagara Falls Institute of Music & Arts: 905-3570-7653

Rush Limbaugh! The Musical opened 2/3/10 to rave reviews!

Rush Limbaugh! The Musical opened 2/3/10. Tickets now on sale!

"tried and true liberal joyride!"
Time Out Time Out

"energetic, insightful and entertaining"
"Hits All the Right Notes"
Examiner.com

"An all-out lampoon"
-Dan Zeff

www.secondcity.com/rush
Read "Rush's" blog!
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Steve Roberts from Virgin Radio 99.9 raves about the Toronto Second City's latest revue

Steve Roberts recently joined us for our latest revue, Shut Up And Show Us Your Tweets. After raving about it on-air, he also discussed his experience on his blog.

Check out what he had to say about it!

Come see what all the fuss is about! Shut Up And Show Us Your Tweets will be ending on Sunday Feb. 14th! For ticket information checkout www.secondcity.com/toronto or call our box office at 416-343-0011!

The Second City Experience Video Contest

Attention Video Makers!

The Second City is having a contest. What can audiences expect when they come to The Second City? From arrival to departure and all the fun in between, we’re looking for a smart, funny, and informational video to explain it all. Submit your 90-second video by March 1st, 2010. The winner will be featured on www.secondcity.com. Send a DVD with your name, phone, and e-mail to:

New Media Video Contest
c/o The Second City
1616 N. Wells
Chicago, IL 60614

The Second City and MLB featured in the NY Times.

Second City Communications' work with Major League Baseball is featured in Saturday's New York Times. Check out the story about how we help rookies assimilate to life as sports celebrities. www.nytimes.com.

"Rush Limbaugh! The Musical" on TV!

WCIU featured The Second City's production of "Rush Limbaugh! The Musical" - get a sneak peak at scenes and songs from the new musical that opens this Wednesday, February 3rd, at The Second City e.t.c. www.wciu.com.

Congratulations to Stephen Colbert for Grammy Win!

We're not kidding. Congratulations to Second City alum Stephen Colbert for his Best Comedy Album ("A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All!") win at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards! For videos and speeches from last night's broadcast, visit www.grammy.com.