“Improv as Theater,” the theme of the ninth annual edition of this sprawling showcase of performers from around the world, links improvisation to its roots and emphasizes its potential–and rightly so. When Viola Spolin taught character games to the folks who went on to found Second City, she called the form improvisational theater. This year’s CIF jury members selected participants who exhibit an inclination to experiment beyond standard short-form sketch comedy and long-form montage, including actors, writers, monologuists, dancers, musicians, and video artists. Special focus is placed on interdisciplinary work, as well as emerging talents from high schools and colleges. As CIF executive director Jonathan Pitts says, “The act of improvising is the act of creating.” The fest also honors the memories of veteran actor and original Compass member Hamilton Camp, Athenaeum Theatre executive director Fred Solari, local entertainment journalists Allan Johnson and Mark Sinclair, and director-performer Jim Zulevic.
Best of Chicago voting is live now. Vote for your favorites »
The Chicago Improv Festival runs 4/24-4/30 at the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport, and the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington. Auxiliary events take place at the Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted, and Loyola University, Kathleen Mullady Memorial Theatre, Centennial Forum, 6525 N. Sheridan (enter at 1125 W. Loyola). Admission ranges from free to $30. Some performances are restricted to persons 18 and over (see listings). Tickets to shows at the Athenaeum can be purchased through Ticketmaster (312-902-1500 or www.ticketmaster.com) or at the box office; tickets to events at other venues must be purchased at the box office on the day of the show. For general festival information, call 773-935-9810 or visit chicagoimprovfestival.org. For info on shows at the Cultural Center, call 312-744-6630 (TTY 312-744-2947). Following is the schedule through 4/27; a complete schedule is available online at www.chicagoreader.com.
Norway’s Oslo Improvisasjonsteater launches a series of lunchtime performances cosponsored by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs. a 12:15 PM, Chicago Cultural Center, Randolph Cafe. F
The Mike and Duane Show features improvised and scripted rock operas. a 12:15 PM, Chicago Cultural Center, Randolph Cafe. F
Cold Towne Heroes, a group of Hurricane Katrina survivors from New Orleans now living in Austin, perform. a 12:15 PM, Chicago Cultural Center, Randolph Cafe. F
Ice Worm (see Wed 4/26 listing for Bodies of (Comedy) Work) performs; the show is sign interpreted. a 12:15 PM, Chicago Cultural Center, Randolph Cafe. F
Hurricanes Are Funny
