More information on ImprovOlympic
ImprovOlympic was founded 20 years ago as a training ground for improv actors by the late, great, and inexplicably unsung Del Close, an improv pioneer who branched off from his more mainstream counterparts at Second City to pursue an unorthodox methodology. A legendary iconoclast, the colorful Close developed a long-form improv technique known as "The Harold." It eschewed the traditional sketch format in favor of more conceptual comedy scenes: The audience suggests a theme for the evening, then a series of skits, monologues, and songs are built around it. Second City, whose vignette-blackout-vignette format had grown weary, has since co-opted the method.ImprovOlympic offers a nightclub setting for a variety of unscripted nightly performances, from free-form pieces to shows loosely based on concepts such as Star Trek or dating. Like all improv, it's a gamble: It could be a big laugh, or the amateur performers could go down in flames. Monday is an off night for most other clubs in town, and ImprovOlympic takes advantage with a show called the Armando Diaz Experience, an all-star improv night that teams up some of the best improvisers in Chicago, from Second City and elsewhere. Besides Mike Myers, successful alums include the late Chris Farley, Tim Meadows, Andy Dick, and Conan O'Brien's former Late Night sidekick, Andy Richter. Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
Price
Tickets $5-$14Credit Cards Accepted
visa,mastercard,amexDirections
Subway/El: Red Line to Addison
Area
At Addison St
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