What day is it?! A Boardwalk Empire star off-Broadway, Pictures at an Exhibition, an age-old NHL rivalry, and more tonight!
Tag Archives: HBO
Laugh It Off at Addison’s The Improv
During tough times, nothing chases away the blues like a good, solid belly laugh. The Addison Comedy Club (also known as The Improv,) has been an Addison staple for several years for good reason: big name acts and surprisingly good amateurs. Headliners like Pauly Shore, Comedy Central’s Carlos Mencia and Tommy Davidson draw large crowds, while newbies get a chance at their big break. This is a great place for bachelor/bachelorette parties, date night, or a low-key night out with friends who have funny bones.
As with most improv comedy clubs, drinks can be a bit pricey and the food won’t win any awards, but the laughs are what really take center stage and keep the place packed week after week.
Seasonal Affective Disorder? Laugh it Off at Zanies
If you think the Second City is the only place to have a good laugh in Old Town, think again. Just a block down from the famous Second City is Zanies Comedy Club where you can find the best stand-up the city has to offer. Comedians from places like Comedy Central, HBO (regular appearances by Jeff Green and Suzie Essman), late night shows and 
of course, hot, new local talent perform on Zanie’s famously small stage. Recently, Zanies partnered with TBS for “A Very Funny Festival,” hosting shows with stars from TBS.
The intimate surroundings of Zanies make for heartier laughs. Here you are likely to get called upon by the comedians and after the two drinks you’re required to consume, you probably won’t care. To be fair, avoiding the two-drink purchase may be done with canned goods donations.
With a calendar full of shows, finding fun themes is oh-so-simple like “Ladies Night,” “Rising Star Challenge,” and “Best of Chicago.”
Insider Tip: Buy tickets to big shows in advance (online) as the big names do sell out and long lines form at the club, even on weeknights.