A Little Time and a Keyboard: Laugh Out Loud at the Chicago Improv

Laugh Out Loud at the Chicago Improv

Monday, October 31, 2011

Every time we have been to the Chicago Improv, my husband and I have had a great time.  We scored some free tickets a couple of months ago, so we decided that this weekend was the perfect weekend to cash in.

The first time we went to the Improv, I was not sure what to expect since it is located at Woodfield Mall.  As you descend down to the club, you quickly forget that you are at the mall (thank goodness!).  The club has a really relaxed, cozy vibe--very much desired when spending a night away from children! 

We always reserve dinner seating for the show.   By reserving dinner seating, you are seated earlier and get better seats.  We have been able to sit first row for three of the shows that we have been too.  However, be warned---if you sit near the front you have a good shot at being asked to participate in the show.  So, if you enjoy being part of the show, get to the Improv early to sit in front!

Whether you come for dinner or not, there is a two item per person minimum requirement (the minimum includes drinks).  My husband and I have tried several items off the menu.  Overall, we have not found the menu to be "stellar."  However, there are a few items that are tasty and we tend to stick with those.  Our club staples include the taquitos, the mozzarella sticks, and the chicken tenders.  Other items we have tried have been ok, but nothing to be excited about.  One more recommendation--stay away from the nachos.  The couple we went with made the mistake of ordering them and could not eat them because they were smothered in a nasty-tasting cheese sauce.

As you can see, we do not go to the Improv for the food.  We go for the great entertainment! Each show consists of three acts.  There is a headlining comedian and two opening comedians.  Many of the headlining comedians are "known" comedians.  We have seen Doug Bensen, Harland Williams, and Alonzo Bodden.  The Improv has also hosted Dave Foley, The Wayans Brothers, Christopher Titus, Kevin Pollak and Mark Curry amongst many others.  Tracy Morgan is the headliner for next weekend.  The comedians at the Improv are very talented.  For every show we have not only enjoyed the headliners but the openers as well.  In fact, several times, we have enjoyed the openers more than the headliner for that night.  So, the show is great from beginning to end!

I find the Improv to be a great place to go to get away from it all for a little bit.  There is nothing like a little laugh to help you unwind and forget the headaches.

For a list of upcoming acts: http://www.improv.com/ComedyClub/Chicago

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