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Sunday, April 21, 2019

Second City Chicago Improv Classes And Programs

By Ruth Carter


When it comes improvisational art, comedy and music, some of the most amazing actors, artists and comedians are included in this genre. While this is the case, when it comes to Chicago Improv Classes most are either related to comedy or acting. Whereas, Second City is often considered the best enterprise for learning improv in Chicago.

Second City is known for producing the first improvisational performance in the United States. While based in the windy city, there are classes and programs now available in Toronto and Los Angeles and at the original training enter in Chicago. Since December 16, 1959, the theater and training programs have become some of the most respected outlets in the country.

Having producing such big television hits such as Next Comedy Legend, Second City Presents and SCTV, the group now has a large following. In addition, the theater has produced several well known actors, comedians, directors, producers and others in show business. Some of these individuals include, Amy Poehler, Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey, Steve Carrel, Mike Myers, Ryan Stiles, Nia Vardalos, Catherine O'Hara, Eugene Levy, Del Close, Dan Aykroyd, John Candy, Gilda Radner and Bill Murray. While having trained and performed with Second City, many of these individuals have gone on to become ongoing cast members on Saturday Night Live, or have appeared in well known movies or television shows.

The Chicago school and theater is currently located at 1616 North Wells Street. The troupe's name comes from an article related to A. J. Liebling in the New Yorker Magazine in 1952. A name which was chosen as a self-mocking tribute to those whom started the theater.

The founders first gathered at the Compass Bar in 1955. The group, made up of only two people at the time, were Bernard Sahlins and Paul Sills. After which, Sills' mother developed a del arte style training program. Once more students started to show an interest in improv, Spolin began training more actors and comedians. Then, once having become better known, the three sat up the original Second City theater and training center in 1959.

Once the first set of students graduated, the group began with actors, comedians and musicians occasionally performing in Chicago. The first of such shows is considered the founding of the SC theater troupe, training programs and theater. Since that time, the troupe has gone on to become of the most prestigious improvisational groups in the United States.

Soon the theater would become active as a place where improvisational stories and scenes were created, using methods and techniques which were taught by Spolin. The teachings later became known as Theater Games, a class produced and directed by Sills.

In recent years, the troupe has been producing and directing sketch shows for a major cruise line. The troupe also launched an American tour and was on tour most of the 2000s. Now, the Second City theater and training centers are seeking individuals interested in learning the art of improvisation in acting and comedy. If interested in such an opportunity, more information can be found on the Second City and SCTV websites.




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