The Improvised Housewives of iO

2 Square

Two nights only! 10/25+ 10/26. In 2 Square, John Lutz and Peter Grosz take a single suggestion then spin that into a 45 minute longform show featuring the kaleidoscope of scenes, absurdist transitional elements and callbacks – all while never once using a “sweep edit” to get from scene to scene. They play dozens of characters, create environments and locations using every part of the theater and weave it all together in a satisfying conclusion.

The West Texas Weirs

In this Southern-fried, comedic mis-adventure, comedian, Stephnie Weir (MAD TV), explores the uncanny parallels between her childhood, growing up on a used car lot, repossessing cars, and a beloved late-70’s action-comedy movie. Two performances only, September 28th and 29th!

MEADOWS, WALSH, AND FRIENDS

Join Tim Meadows (Mean Girls, Saturday Night Live), Matt Walsh (Veep), and Joe Canale and Brad Morris of Uncle’s Brother for a night of Chicago-style improv inspired entirely by audience suggestions and experiences.

Improvised Shakespeare Company

Every Friday and Saturday at 8pm since 2006! Inspired by one audience suggestion, these dazzling players create a brand-new Shakespearean masterpiece right before your eyes.  Come witness the shows critics have called “staggeringly brilliant.”

The Apocalypse Roadshow

THE RECKONING

Thursdays at 7:30 in September. Originally formed in 2002, the team has been pushing the boundaries of longform improv ever since at iO and theaters across the country. Known for their experimental forms and vast knowledge, The Reckoning continue to accelerate longform improv towards uncharted territories of philosophy and hilarity.

Whirled News Tonight

Every Saturday at 8pm. Twenty years running! The audience provides inspiration by picking their top stories from the day’s news. From these journalistic suggestions, a team of experienced improvisers create a fast-paced, topical, intelligent, & hilarious show.

Escandalo!

Escándalo is a weekly variety show that showcases Latine comedians, musicians, poets and much more! The show consists of a rotating cast of improvisers, solo performances, and special guests that all come from a Latine background. All are welcome to come join us in building community and celebrating nuestra cultura! WEPA! Fridays at 10pm!

Bounce House

One night only! September 28th. Bounce House is a straight forward stand-up showcase from Ian Abramson. It is also his birthday celebration, and hey, we’re recording the audio. So please come out. Performances from Ian Abramson,  Arish Singh, Blake Burkhart, Cameron Gillette, Cassidy Kulhanek, Chelsea Hood, Cleveland Anderson, Joe Eames, Kristen Toomey, Pat Bolduc, and Shane Anthony.

Duluth: An Improvised Midwest Murder

Thursdays at 7:30pm. Based on the hit FX show “Fargo”, Duluth takes audiences into the world of true crime in the Midwest. Each week, the cast of Duluth will improvise a story of murder, malfeasance, and general mayhem, all set against the backdrop of an audience member’s hometown.

THE FREE SHOW

Every Wednesday at 7:30pm– A free weekly show featuring Dumb John, Birdlady, and other iO House Teams. Never been to an iO show before? This is a great way to check out longform style improv from some of the best!

Phony Award Winning presents: Improvised Wicked

Phony Award Winning Musical presents: Wicked! A fully improvised musical with singing, dancing, and a whole lot of gravity defying. Travel to the land of Oz and see our wickedly talented cast Oct 6 – Nov. 24 Sundays at 7 in the Weed.

¡Pásele!: Night of Latine Excellence

¡Pásele! means come in! During Hispanic Heritage Month, it means to come to iO Theater for a night of the best Latine entertainment y puro desmadre. This is a dynamic variety show featuring some of the funniest Latine performers in the city doing standup, drag, live music, and more! Wouldn’t be a Dama Productions event without a killer after-party with the best DJs and a pop-up market with Latine vendors! October 10th t 7pm!

Improv is Dead!

Improv is Dead (formerly FUDGE) invites you to a night of comedy unplugged! Join Damian Anaya, Tim Lyons, and Dan White for a night of NO mics and NO sound effects! Just pure freak on a leash, certified sicko, improv pervert behavior. One night only, October 3rd at 7:30pm

Trick or Treat Screening with Marc Price

Metalheads, heshers, and thrashers of Chicago better get ready for an evening of Halloween badassery and 80’s excess with a screening of 1986’s heavy metal horror-comedy, Trick or Treat! Both iO Theater and local event producer Stephanie Sack are especially delighted to announce that the film’s star, Marc “Skippy” Price, will be in attendance for the screening, providing live commentary to picture. A post-screening costume party and Halloween drink specials ensure attendees of this one-night-only event a headbanging Halloween they’ll never forget!