Step away from the Netflix marathon and find your way into one of these local theaters for a belly laugh this week. Your guide to Chicago’s affordable and under-the-radar comedy scene awaits.
Thursday, Feb. 16
Circumference of a Squirrel
2257 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-404-7336
If a comedy about a man trying to overcome a racist father and any interaction with squirrels isn’t enticing enough, the Chicago Theater Week discount is a nice little bonus. 7:30 p.m. $42. $15 with discount. Tickets: greenhousetheater.org
Friday, Feb. 17
Michael Ian Black: Shut Up & Comedy
1807 S. Allport St. 312-526-3851
Superfans of “Wet Hot American Summer,” VH1’s “I Love the…” series and other pop culture classics can see the multi-talented comedian, actor and author perform live. 9 p.m. $25. Tickets: thaliahallchicago.com
Are You Siri-ous?
230 W. North Ave. 312-337-3992
Comedy troupe French Toast surfs the web in this improv show inspired by the latest viral news, memes and more. 9 p.m. $11-$13. Tickets: secondcity.com
A Dope Ass Comedy Show
1637 W. North Ave. 773-697-3563
This Dave Helem-produced, Dewayne Perkins-hosted monthly showcase features Eli Hamilton, Sarah Perry, Sammy Arechar and Heather Jay H this time around. 9 p.m. $7-$10. Tickets: eventbrite.com
Saturday, Feb. 18
Rory Albanese
1548 N. Wells St. 312-337-4027
Stand-up from Rory Albanese, a nine-time Emmy winner for his work as executive producer of “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” and former producer, writer and correspondent for “The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore.” 7 p.m., 9 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. $25. Tickets: zanies.com
Sunday, Feb. 19
Stand Up and Debate!
3175 N. Broadway 773-327-3175
Politics in the news doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, so this debate among five comics, including Sam Norton, Brandi Denise and Xavier Lamont, takes the issues to the stand-up stage. 7 p.m. $17-$20. Tickets: laughfactory.com
Want to see your show in Set the Scene? Us too! Send details to Morgan Olsen at mcolsen@redeyechicago.com for consideration.
