Second City: Chicago’s Groundbreaking Comedy Institution
Introduction
The Second City is one of the most influential comedy institutions to emerge from Chicago. Its importance lies in the development of improvisational theatre techniques, the training of generations of performers and writers, and the wide cultural reach of its alumni. For audiences, aspiring comedians and organisations seeking creative training, Second City remains a relevant and enduring presence in comedy and corporate education.
Main body
Origins and artistic approach
The Second City opened on a snowy Chicago night in December 1959 and drew on the improvisational games of Viola Spolin to create a distinctive method of developing sketches and revues. By the 1980s the company had expanded far beyond its original cabaret on Chicago’s north side. During that period Len Stuart bought out Bernie Sahlins’ interest in The Second City, setting in motion a new era of innovation for the company.
Stages, revues and touring
In 1982, with producer Joyce Sloane’s assistance and without Sahlins’s knowledge, The Second City staged an original revue on what became its second stage, the e.t.c. The company continues to mount mainstage productions — recent listings include the Mainstage 114th Revue and Improv Supernova: e.t.c. 50th Revue — as well as touring ‘‘best of’’ shows. Four touring companies perform Second City revues across North America and abroad, maintaining the company’s long history of bringing live improv to diverse audiences.
Training, alumni and media
Second City Training Centres in Chicago, Toronto and Los Angeles teach thousands of students each week, offering classes in improv, acting, comedy writing and stand-up. The organisation claims to operate the longest running improv stages and some of the world’s largest training facilities, with a cast and alumni numbering in the hundreds. Notable alumni highlighted in archival and documentary material include Tina Fey, Mike Myers, Ryan Stiles, Martin Short, Patrick McKenna and many others. The company’s presence extends to screen work: the 2006 documentary Second City: First Family of Comedy and the Jeff Garlin film Want Someone to Eat Cheese With feature Second City history and alumni.
Conclusion
Second City’s blend of performance, training and corporate programmes (under banners such as Second City Works and Second City Communications) secures its ongoing influence in comedy and creative development. For readers and prospective students, the institution offers both a historical touchstone in modern comedy and practical pathways into performance and improv-based executive training. Its touring shows and continued revues suggest the company will remain a key incubator of comedic talent and entrepreneurial training for the foreseeable future.
