Second City Archives · | Reel Chicago - At the intersection of Chicago Advertising, Entertainment, Media and Production

How a trailblazing woman made Chicago the home of improv

By Reel Chicago Oct 12, 2021

Chicago’s greatest cultural export just might be improv theater, which was born at Jane Addams’ Hull House during the Great Depression and carried out into the world by the...

AWARDS

Jason Sudeikis gives a shout out to Chicago in Emmy acceptance speech

By Susan L. Hornik Sep 20, 2021

Our predictions on Reel 360 became a reality as Apple TV+’s Ted Lasso, one of the most hilarious shows on television, took home seven Emmys after being nominated for an impre...

Events

Work in Progress Comedy Showcase at Navy Pier

By Reel Chicago Jul 14, 2021

When it comes to comedy, Chicago is no second city—we take center stage. Celebrate our city’s local talent with a comedy showcase featuring sets from up-and-coming voices c...

CITY NEWS

The Second City reopens their e.t.c. Theater Stage

By Reel Chicago Jun 4, 2021

The Second City, the world's leader in satirical comedy, has reopened their e.t.c. stage at Piper's Alley to audiences. The return of the e.t.c. theater with a new show, "O...

REEL BUSINESS

Iconic Second City acquired by New York-based ZMC

By Reel Chicago Feb 18, 2021

This is no laughing matter. New York-based private equity firm ZMC announced today that it has acquired The Second City, the world's premier brand in improvisation and sketch-b...

Reel People

Second City, ‘SNL’ announce scholarship recipients

By Reel Chicago Jan 19, 2021

Legendary comedy institution The Second City announces the recipients of a new scholarship for diverse comedic talent in partnership with Saturday Night Live. The creati...

REEL MOVES

Director Tyler Davis joins Tessa Films

By Reel Chicago Nov 18, 2020

Director Tyler Davis, a wry, funny and multi-talented filmmaker, writer, musician and improv artist, has brought his unique combination of talents to the roster of Tessa Films,...

In memoriam

Former SNL writer, Second City vet McCarthy passes at 61

By Katharin Mraz Apr 11, 2020

Chicago has lost a beloved writer, actor, comedian, teacher, husband and father. Former SNL writer, Michael Clayton McCarthy, who was also an active member of The Second City, ...

In memoriam

Second City Stage Manager Craig Taylor passes at 63

By Reel Chicago Mar 31, 2020

“I guess I learned how to take the lights out at the right moment. You just have to always be looking for the right end.” –Craig Taylor Not all of Second City's s...

THE NEW NORMAL

UPDATED: Second City, Annoyance, iO, ComedySportz go virtual

By Katharin Mraz Mar 28, 2020

When audiences and comedy lovers think Improv, they usually think Chicago, home to popular destinations like the infamous The Second City and iO Comedy. Therefore, it’...

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