Second City Chicago Improv Classes And Programs

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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.

The Second City enterprise is known for producing the first improvisational acting troupe in the country. For, it was on December 16, 1959 when the most prolific, influential and respected theater was first founded. After which, Barbara Harris, Sill's former partner and Compass Player sang Everybody's in the Know during the first performance. The admission to the theater at the time, $1.50.

With producing such comedy television shows as SCTV, Second City Presents and Next Comedy Legend, the theater and troupe now have a rather large following. In addition, there are a number of well known comedians and actors, directors and others which have been cast members or students at Second City. These actors, comedians and students include, Amy Poehler, Bill Murray, Gilda Radner, Dan Aykroyd, John Candy, Eugene Levy, Del Close, Nia Vardalos, Catherine O'Hara, Ryan Styles, Mike Myers, Tina Fey, Steve Carrel and Stephen Colbert.

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 include Bernard Sahlins and Paul Sills, and Sills mother Viola Spolin who taught the first students of what is now the SC theater. After more students showed an interest in improv, Ms. Spolin began training more comedians and actors. After which, the three were largely responsible for starting the training programs and theater.

Upon completion of the first round of classes, the three founders began hosting actors, comedians and musicians in Chicago. The productions included the first Second City premiere at which Barbara Harris, Compass Player and Sill's ex-wife sang Everybody's In The Know as part of the program and a tribute to the founding members, the admission, $1.50.

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.

More recently, Second City and the training centers have been producing shows for Norwegian Cruise Lines. While this is the case, the troupe still tours, having recently launched a national tour upon completing a contract with the cruise line. Now, with a number of actors and comedians having moved on to greener pastures, the theater is looking for individuals interested in learning improvisational acting and comedy. If this is the case, more information about the Second City comedy troupe, improv classes, training centers and SCTV can be found on the SCTV or Second City website.




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