The eighth annual edition of this sprawling celebration of improvisational comedy brings together performers from around the U.S. and abroad; Chicago, of course, is heavily represented. The lineup ranges from fledgling talent to returning stars who have won fame and big bucks appearing in and/or writing for movies and TV. This year’s festival, the largest and most diverse yet, is divided into several series–Mainstage, Showcase, Sketch, Solo, Duo, and Fringe–as well as an all-night improv session, a series of daytime “Lunchbreak” performances (presented in conjunction with the city’s cultural affairs department), forums, workshops, and numerous special events.
Norway’s Oslo Improvisasjonsteater offers “an improvised visual trip through the Scandinavian folktale traditions” as part of a series of lunchtime performances cosponsored by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs. a 12:15 PM, Chicago Cultural Center, Randolph Cafe. Free.
FRIDAY 4/29
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The competitive improv show pHrenzy, presented by Chicago’s pH Productions, whittles down contestants in reality-TV style. For the first five rounds, elimination is governed by the host, whose arbitrary rules are concealed from the cast but not the audience; after that things get more democratic–the players fall prey to audience whim. Throw in random “refereeing” and you’ve got a recipe for the most athletic idiocy you’ll find on a late-night stage in Chicago, a lot of whip-smart, hopped-up old-school fun. (BN) The show is part of a series of lunchtime performances cosponsored by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs. a 12:15 PM, Chicago Cultural Center, Randolph Cafe. Free.
American Dream, Election Show 2004, and Waiting for Ennis Cotter
Toronto’s Sandra Battaglini presents her “one-act solo clown show” The Upside Down Widow; Michael Lehrer performs his one-man show, C’mon; and local stand-up Robert Buscemi opens the evening. a 8 PM, Playground Theater. $15.
Shared Property, Zach & Risa, and Hallal & Sutton
