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Looking to start your improv journey but not ready to commit to a full term of classes? Improv 1A offers a fun and flexible way to dive into the basics of improvisation. In this 4-week course, you’ll explore essential skills like saying “Yes, And,” making offers, and active listening. You’ll also start building trust with your ensemble and discover the joy of spontaneity and creative risk-taking. Covering the first half of the full Improv 1 curriculum, this class is designed to give you a solid foundation while fitting into your schedule. By the end, you’ll feel confident in the basics of improv and ready for the next step.

What comes next? If you complete both Improv 1A and Improv 1B, you’ll have the prerequisite skills and vocabulary for Improv 2.

Looking to start your improv journey but not ready to commit to a full term of classes? Improv 1A offers a fun and flexible way to dive into the basics of improvisation. In this 4-week course, you’ll explore essential skills like saying “Yes, And,” making offers, and active listening. You’ll also start building trust with your ensemble and discover the joy of spontaneity and creative risk-taking. Covering the first half of the full Improv 1 curriculum, this class is designed to give you a solid foundation while fitting into your schedule. By the end, you’ll feel confident in the basics of improv and ready for the next step.

What comes next? If you complete both Improv 1A and Improv 1B, you’ll have the prerequisite skills and vocabulary for Improv 2.

Looking to start your improv journey but not ready to commit to a full term of classes? Improv 1A offers a fun and flexible way to dive into the basics of improvisation. In this 4-week course, you’ll explore essential skills like saying “Yes, And,” making offers, and active listening. You’ll also start building trust with your ensemble and discover the joy of spontaneity and creative risk-taking. Covering the first half of the full Improv 1 curriculum, this class is designed to give you a solid foundation while fitting into your schedule. By the end, you’ll feel confident in the basics of improv and ready for the next step.

What comes next? If you complete both Improv 1A and Improv 1B, you’ll have the prerequisite skills and vocabulary for Improv 2.

Conservatory level 1 is a deep dive into the Second City archives. Students study and analyze classic sketches to familiarize themselves with the satirical styles and genres presented on our resident stages across the years.

Students learn how to perform sketch by exploring the comedic structure of some of Second City’s most beloved archive scenes and study the elements of bold character creation.

Conservatory 1 meets once per week for 3 hours and culminates in one class performance of archive scenes during the seven-week term. This class’s show is scheduled for Monday, February 24, 2025 (dates subject to change).

Please note that this class will take place entirely online. You will be emailed a unique link for video conferencing the day of your class.

Musical Improv Fundamentals is a dive into the basic concepts behind comedic song improvisation. Topics we will cover include melody building, simple song structures, rhyming, and game play, all approached with a comedic eye. Come ready to sing, play, and laugh! No pre-requisite required!

Conservatory level 1 is a deep dive into the Second City archives. Students study and analyze classic sketches to familiarize themselves with the satirical styles and genres presented on our resident stages across the years.

Students learn how to perform sketch by exploring the comedic structure of some of Second City’s most beloved archive scenes and study the elements of bold character creatio

Conservatory level 1 is a deep dive into the Second City archives. Students study and analyze classic sketches to familiarize themselves with the satirical styles and genres presented on our resident stages across the years.

Students learn how to perform sketch by exploring the comedic structure of some of Second City’s most beloved archive scenes and study the elements of bold character creatio

Conservatory level 1 is a deep dive into the Second City archives. Students study and analyze classic sketches to familiarize themselves with the satirical styles and genres presented on our resident stages across the years.

Students learn how to perform sketch by exploring the comedic structure of some of Second City’s most beloved archive scenes and study the elements of bold character creatio

Musical Improv Fundamentals is a dive into the basic concepts behind comedic song improvisation. Topics we will cover include melody building, simple song structures, rhyming, and game play, all approached with a comedic eye. Come ready to sing, play, and laugh! No pre-requisite required!

The Second City has been creating comedy through improvisation for 60+ years. Actors improvise ideas during rehearsals until they find a funny scene. This unique process has produced some of the greatest comedy writers of our time. Whether writing a sketch, screenplay, or performing improv, everything starts… with an idea.

In this 7-week course, you will learn the fundamentals of developing an idea into a premise, a premise into a pitch, and a pitch into a sketch. Below is a detailed outline of the main homework assignment and the theme for each week’s class.

Week 1: Ideas – 1 Minute Story

Week 2: Comedic Premises – 1 Minute Rant

Week 3: Pitches – Scene Pitches

Week 4: Dialogue – 1 Page of Dialogue – Opinion

Week 5: Behavior – 1 Page of Dialogue – Behavior

Week 6: Transformation – 2 Page Sketch – Transformation

Week 7: Location – 2 Page Sketch – Location

This class utilizes two platforms to engage with students: Canvas and Zoom. Each week’s lessons and homework assignments will be available on Canvas, while live classes with fellow students and the Second City instructor will be hosted on Zoom.

Each lesson on Canvas will unlock one week before the corresponding in-person Zoom class, including the first week. Additionally, homework assignments should be posted to Canvas 24 hours before each Zoom class.

Ready to take your stand-up to the next level? Second City’s Stand-Up Lab gives you the space and support to sharpen your joke writing and performance skills. In every class, you’ll have dedicated time to write and test your jokes, while receiving personalized feedback and assignments based on your strengths and goals.

Each teacher brings a unique perspective to the Stand-Up Lab, so you’re welcome to return again and again to develop new material and gain different insights. You’ll also have the chance to test your material at Second City’s open mics, and by the end of the term, you’ll perform in a showcase to put all your hard work on display.

Prerequisite: You must have completed Stand-Up 1 or have one year of stand-up experience.

You’ve done Musical Improv Fundamentals, and you’re ready to strengthen your MI skills. This 4- week course focuses on a musical skill each week, paired with an essential scenic improv skill and longer form improvisation. The goal is to strengthen the core tools needed by every Musical Improviser by engaging in focused lesson plans, in a fun and supportive environment. Students will learn song structures, scenic work for strong group songs, continue to work on rhyming technique, and explore how to build story and connections in long form musical improv.

Armed with a better understanding of what goes into the creation of a Second City sketch, from improvisation to written scene, students in Level 2 build upon their own skills as actors, improvisers and storytellers.

Students in Level 2 study advanced improv techniques with an aim toward creating strong scenic foundations upon which to build potential sketches. Students employ all the tools they’ve learned throughout their training, from basic improvisation tenets of listening and agreement to complex character and acting work to bring dynamic scenic storytelling to life.

Armed with a better understanding of what goes into the creation of a Second City sketch, from improvisation to written scene, students in Level 2 build upon their own skills as actors, improvisers and storytellers.

Students in Level 2 study advanced improv techniques with an aim toward creating strong scenic foundations upon which to build potential sketches. Students employ all the tools they’ve learned throughout their training, from basic improvisation tenets of listening and agreement to complex character and acting work to bring dynamic scenic storytelling to life.

Armed with a better understanding of what goes into the creation of a Second City sketch, from improvisation to written scene, students in Level 2 build upon their own skills as actors, improvisers and storytellers.

Students in Level 2 study advanced improv techniques with an aim toward creating strong scenic foundations upon which to build potential sketches. Students employ all the tools they’ve learned throughout their training, from basic improvisation tenets of listening and agreement to complex character and acting work to bring dynamic scenic storytelling to life.

Ready to take your stand-up to the next level? Second City’s Stand-Up Lab gives you the space and support to sharpen your joke writing and performance skills. In every class, you’ll have dedicated time to write and test your jokes, while receiving personalized feedback and assignments based on your strengths and goals.

Each teacher brings a unique perspective to the Stand-Up Lab, so you’re welcome to return again and again to develop new material and gain different insights. You’ll also have the chance to test your material at Second City’s open mics, and by the end of the term, you’ll perform in a showcase to put all your hard work on display.

Prerequisite: You must have completed Stand-Up 1 or have one year of stand-up experience.

You’ve done Musical Improv Fundamentals, and you’re ready to strengthen your MI skills. This 4- week course focuses on a musical skill each week, paired with an essential scenic improv skill and longer form improvisation. The goal is to strengthen the core tools needed by every Musical Improviser by engaging in focused lesson plans, in a fun and supportive environment. Students will learn song structures, scenic work for strong group songs, continue to work on rhyming technique, and explore how to build story and connections in long form musical improv.

Writing 2 builds on the foundation for scenic comedy writing established in Writing 1 by expanding on scenic types, writing to cast and running order, and writing through collaboration. Writing 2 focuses on the construction of a sketch comedy revue running order. Students who understand the structure of a show are able to better write to the needs of a show and its cast. Writing 2 provides students with understanding of the different types of scenes found in a Second City-style sketch comedy revue. The lens of the course is focused on the Cast and the Characters. Understanding scenic formulas, writing to cast size, and character point-of-view. Students practice creating simple structures with relatable characters as they learn the building blocks of a sketch revue.Students in Writing 2 develop variety in their comedic scene creation by watching and analyzing a Second City-style revue and work on in-class exercises to write towards the need of a Second City running order. Students also work with one another to develop scenes as collaboration is a cornerstone of the Second City creation process.

Please note that this class will take place entirely online. You will be emailed a unique link for video conferencing the day of your class.

Conservatory Level 3 is dedicated to the study of the many different types of scenic styles that are employed in sketch creation.

Students learn to improvise with the goal of creating potential sketch ideas built upon the foundation of classic comedic styles such as Fish Out of Water or Town Hall group scenes. Some of the characters or premises generated through this work may be carried over and used in the sketch show created during the Advanced Conservatory Grad Revue Process.

At the end of this term, students will need to audition for acceptance and ensemble placement in Grad Revue.

Conservatory Level 3 is dedicated to the study of the many different types of scenic styles that are employed in sketch creation.

Students learn to improvise with the goal of creating potential sketch ideas built upon the foundation of classic comedic styles such as Fish Out of Water or Town Hall group scenes. Some of the characters or premises generated through this work may be carried over and used in the sketch show created during the Advanced Conservatory Grad Revue Process.

At the end of this term, students will need to audition for acceptance and ensemble placement in Grad Revue.

Improv 3 takes the character work from Improv 2 and places it in the context of other key elements of dynamic scenes: who/what/where, beginnings & middles, platforms, setting, intro to tilts/routine breaking, and heightening.

Improv 3 takes the character work from Improv 2 and places it in the context of other key elements of dynamic scenes: who/what/where, beginnings & middles, platforms, setting, intro to tilts/routine breaking, and heightening.

Conservatory Level 3 is dedicated to the study of the many different types of scenic styles that are employed in sketch creation.

Students learn to improvise with the goal of creating potential sketch ideas built upon the foundation of classic comedic styles such as Fish Out of Water or Town Hall group scenes. Some of the characters or premises generated through this work may be carried over and used in the sketch show created during the Advanced Conservatory Grad Revue Process.

At the end of this term, students will need to audition for acceptance and ensemble placement in Grad Revue.

Improv 3 takes the character work from Improv 2 and places it in the context of other key elements of dynamic scenes: who/what/where, beginnings & middles, platforms, setting, intro to tilts/routine breaking, and heightening.

Writing 3 builds on the exploration into a Second City running order established in Writing 2 by focusing on the various sources of scenic inspiration and delving deeper into satirical writing. Writing 3 addresses the satirical needs of a sketch comedy revue running order as well as the skills and needs brought on by the varied talents of the cast. By filtering the lessons acquired in previous Writing levels through the lens of satire, students get better acquainted with the style and asks of a Second City-style show. Students examine various sources of inspiration such special skills of the whole cast, other cast members, and personal experiences. As students sharpen the picture of the elements and source of Second City material, they deepen their exploration and understanding of satire and practice several formats that support strong satirical premises. Students in Writing 3 continue developing variety in their comedic scenes by focusing on the needs of the cast and/or the running order. Students continue to work with one another to develop scenes by collaborating on varied satirical premises.

Please note that this class will take place entirely online. You will be emailed a unique link for video conferencing the day of your class.

Improv 3 takes the character work from Improv 2 and places it in the context of other key elements of dynamic scenes: who/what/where, beginnings & middles, platforms, setting, intro to tilts/routine breaking, and heightening.

Please note that this class will take place entirely online. You will be emailed a unique link for video conferencing the day of your class.

Introducing our Summer Weekday Special! Save almost 20% off the regular class price for weekday classes beginning before 5pm. Subject to availability, some exclusions apply. Cannot be combined with other offers. Conservatory, Musical Improv Conservatory, Improv for Actors, and Writing 5&6 classes not eligible for discounted pricing. Special pricing applied at checkout.

In Improv 4, you’ll explore advanced-level scene work and focus on synthesizing all the elements that go into strong, well-rounded, dynamic scenes: like character, emotion, ensemble, environment, relationship, status, transformation, and more. You’ll also continue to learn how to improvise group scenes, and receive an introduction to scene styles and genres.

This course culminates in a final performance that happens outside of class time. This class’s show is scheduled for Sunday June 16, 2024 (dates subject to change).

Please note that this class will take place entirely online. You will be emailed a unique link for video conferencing the day of your class.

Writing 5 focuses on generating and refining written satirical material that results in a fifty-minute sketch revue script. Writing 5 puts into practice the skills acquired from previous class levels to create and produce a Second City-style revue.

Students in Writing 5 learn how to complete a script for a Second City-style revue through comedic writing generated from individual contributions and group collaboration. Students take on production roles to better experience what it takes to mount a comedy show.

Writing 5 has students write a Second City sketch revue with considerations to running order, cast, variety, theme and other aspects investigated in previous Writing levels. Students hold auditions to cast their final scripted sketch show, which is produced and performed after Writing 6. In addition to completing a final script, students take on production roles to ensure that the show is mounted efficiently and effectively.

While there is no performance at the end of Writing 5, a script is created with the intent of being performed by actors after Writing 6.

Please note that this class will take place entirely online. You will be emailed a unique link for video conferencing the day of your class.

Learn how to write monologue jokes, desk bits, remote segments, guest pieces, sketch and a variety of segments for shows like Fallon, Kimmel, Amber Ruffin, Seth Myers, Colbert, Ellen, Noah, Oliver and more. Pitch monologue jokes weekly, brainstorm, explore and heighten material in this collaborative Writer’s Room environment. Create original material to strengthen your writing samples, and produce the elements to put together your pitch packet for a talk show.

Please note that this class will take place entirely online. You will be emailed a unique link for video conferencing the day of your class.

Building on Online Writing for Late Night TV and Talk Shows 1, this class will consist of joke maximizers for monologue jokes, finding the angle for your joke, monologue jokes with visual punch lines, bits or mini sketches within a monologue, rants on a topic like John Oliver/Seth Meyers, coming up with extra segments for celebrity guests, recurring segment ideas, Fallon-type games with guests, and Sweeps weeks/big ideas for the shows like Kimmel’s “Wall of America”. Students work together more in this level, and explore and heighten each others ideas in this collaborative writer’s room environment!

Please note that this class will take place entirely online. You will be emailed a unique link for video conferencing the day of your class.

This final level culminates in a run of graduation shows. Classes focus on creating and choosing material for a musical variety show.

This innovative class uses ensemble-based improv to help people with social anxiety disorder overcome fear and avoidance associated with work, school, and family life. A Second City Training Centre instructor will lead the improv class through a series improv exercises that are specifically chosen to address key triggers for social anxiety. In a safe and nurturing environment, participants will be introduced to a number of tools they can use to manage their anxiety.

In this four-week online writing satire course, you will learn how to form a strong comedic point of view on topical news and pop culture events. You will brainstorm, draft and rewrite short pieces in the style of McSweeney’s, Shouts and Murmurs and The Second City Network. Internet presence, pitching, and submission guidelines will also be covered.

Recommended next level: Writing Satire for the Internet Level 2.

Students of this on-demand class do not need to log in at a certain time or day (like our streaming class students do), as on-demand class content, exercises and assignments are available at your convenience with assignments due weekly. Weekly assignment due dates are unique to each on-demand class and are typically due Fridays, Saturday, or Sundays.

This second four-week satire writing intensive builds on the concepts learned in Satire 1 and puts an increased emphasis on writing at a professional level. Students will keep a running pitch document, have access to exclusive interviews with top editors and satire writers working today, and create a website for their work. They will learn new forms of satirical writing and focus on rewriting, honing their style, and developing their voice as comedy writers.

This workshop is not offered every term. If you would like to be informed when it becomes available, please click here.

Students of this on-demand class do not need to log in at a certain time or day (like our streaming class students do), as on-demand class content, exercises and assignments are available at your convenience with assignments due weekly. Weekly assignment due dates are unique to each on-demand class and are typically due Fridays, Saturday, or Sundays. 

Effective communication is more than just sharing information—it’s about fostering understanding, even in the most challenging situations. This open-enrollment program brings Second City’s legendary expertise in improvisation to the workplace, offering practical tools to help you navigate difficult conversations and communicate across differences with empathy and impact.

On stage, Second City performers rely on active listening, adaptability, and a willingness to meet their scene partners where they are—skills that are as essential in the workplace as they are in comedy. These same principles can transform your ability to connect with others, no matter the complexity of the topic or the diversity of perspectives involved.

Through this program, participants will:

• Learn to listen deeply and respond thoughtfully by practicing improvisational techniques designed to foster trust and mutual understanding.
• Build confidence in navigating difficult conversations with strategies to address conflict and embrace constructive dialogue.
• Develop skills to communicate across differences by understanding and valuing varying perspectives, enabling stronger collaboration.

The program incorporates innovative exercises developed by Second City Works in collaboration with behavioral scientists from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. These exercises blend the art of improvisation with research-backed approaches to empathy, equipping participants with tools to enhance workplace culture and build stronger professional relationships.

Whether you’re a leader managing a diverse team, a professional striving to resolve conflicts more effectively, or anyone seeking to strengthen their communication toolkit, this program offers actionable insights and practical skills to unlock the power of empathy in your workplace.
Transform your approach to communication. Learn, laugh, and leave ready to make a meaningful difference in every conversation.

January 16th, 2025 from 10am-1pm. Lunch included
Early Enrollment now through Dec. 20th, 2024 for $995
Regular Enrollment from Dec. 21st, 2024 through Jan 15th, 2025 for $1,250

What if you could pick the brain of one of improv’s greatest directors? Now’s your chance! Mick Napier, Artistic Director of The Annoyance Theatre and author of multiple essential improv books, leads this unique, interactive “Improv Assembly.” Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, this workshop offers an open forum to ask Mick any improv-related question. Want to know how to find the game faster? Or how to fully develop your characters? Mick will answer all your burning questions on the spot—with live demonstrations using volunteers from the audience!

Get ready for a high-energy, no-holds-barred session where you’ll walk away with insights you won’t find anywhere else. This is improv at its most raw and real—don’t miss it!

About Mick Napier: Founder and visionary behind the acclaimed Annoyance Theatre, Mick Napier is known both nationally and internationally as an innovator and creative force in comedy, improvisation, and theater. His belief in the element of risk-taking that is at the core of improvisation influences his work and his direction, inspiring genuine creativity in any project with which he is involved.

With the Annoyance, Mick has spent more than 20 years developing and cultivating a style of work and production that has been both acclaimed and imitated. As a Director and Artistic Consultant for the internationally renowned Second City he made his mark having directed more than 10 revues there, including the 40th and 50th Anniversary revues, and Paradigm Lost, which earned him a Joseph Jefferson Award for direction. Mick has also directed such high-profile actors and writers as Martin Short (Martin Short & Friends), Jeff Garlin (I want Someone to Eat Cheese With), and David & Amy Sedaris in their Obie Award Winning hit One Woman Shoe.

In film, Mick directed and edited Annoyance Productions’ first feature film Fatty Drives the Bus, which was released by Troma Pictures in November 1999. For television, he was

writer/performance director for the Cable Ace nominated Exit 57, which aired on Comedy Central for two seasons, Creative Producer on the nationally syndicated sketch TV show The Sports Bar, and for HBO/Comedy Central, he directed the live pilot: T.B.A. His original animations have appeared on the cable programs Tame Show, and R-Rated, as well as in the Chicago Comedy Film Festival.

In addition at The Annoyance, Mick has directed over 20 original productions. Notable ones include Coed Prison Sluts, the longest running musical in Chicago, Splatter Theater, an annual Halloween blood bath, The Tragedy of Balloon Boy, That Darn Antichrist, and more recently The Boy Scout Musical and Swear Jar.

As an Actor, Mick has appeared in the films Ice Harvest and Let’s Go to Prison, Watch, and Talent, and on television as a talent judge in the Canadian reality show Second to None, and in Shrink, a SeeSo television series. The documentary Second to None chronicles Mick’s process of directing a show for The Second City.

Mick’s first book, “Improvise. Scene from the Inside Out” (Heinemann, 2004) reached its 10th printing, and is widely regarded as a seminal work on the subject of Improvisation. It was re-issued with three additional chapters in 2016 under Meriwether Publishing. Meriwether published Mick’s second book, “Behind the Scenes: Improvising Long Form“, in 2016, as well.

Mick worked with many companies and organizations over the past 15 years in areas such as Communication, Collaboration, Innovation, Leadership, and Presentation.

Mick also enjoys a mentalist act with his partner and partner, Jennifer Estlin; they go by the name Napier and Estlin.

If you’re an actor looking to take control of your career, this workshop with Jennifer Estlin is for you! A veteran of both stage and screen, Jen has appeared on Law & Order, Proven Innocent, Chicago PD, and more, alongside national commercials and award-winning films. As the Executive Producer and Owner of The Annoyance Theatre, she has helped guide countless actors to success, and now she’s ready to share her insights with you.

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to build your acting career as a business—giving you the tools to shape your own path and feel empowered in a competitive industry. Jen will cover everything from networking strategies to personal branding, helping you feel more in control of your future as a performer. If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, this is a must-attend!

Jennifer Estlin has been involved in the entertainment business as an actress and producer since 1986.

Following her graduation from Northwestern University’s School of Speech in 1987, she traveled to Edinburgh Scotland with the production of André Gregory’s Alice! directed by David Schwimmer. Afterward, she spent three months traveling all over Europe until deciding to settle for awhile in Paris, where she earned her living singing on the Parisian Metro for close to a year.

Upon returning to Chicago, Jennifer spent several years working in many of Chicago’s theatres including The Annoyance, Northlight, and The Body Politic. She toured for two years with Second City’s National Touring company and was a company member on a Second City resident stage prior to moving to New York in 1994. There, she continued her career by working in regional theatres around the country, Off-Broadway theatre, film, and television. She returned to Chicago in 2002 to become President, Executive Producer and owner of the Annoyance Theatre, and continues to work on film, television and stage.

Jennifer has appeared as recurring characters Judge Cohen on Proven Innocent and Cathy Briscoe on NBC’s Law and Order, and also in shows such as Chicago PD, Empire, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Exit 57, and in several national and regional commercials. Her feature film credits include the soon to be released (Fall 2024) Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois (for which she received Best Actress award at the Star City Film Festival), The Eyes, iMurders, Chicago Boricua, and Volcano, and the award winning short films A Million Miles Away (Sundance) and The Cure (Slamdance).

Ever wondered how legendary Second City scenes featuring the likes of Tina Fey, Rachel Dratch, and Scott Adsit were crafted? In this exclusive Q&A, Mick Napier—director of over 15 Second City revues—will break down some of the most iconic moments from The Second City stage. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process, discovering how scenes evolve from initial improv to polished sketch.

Plus, this event will feature clips from classic Second City revues, providing a rich, interactive experience as Mick shares insights on how to shape improv into lasting comedic gold. Whether you’re an improv enthusiast or sketch comedy fan, this discussion will offer valuable takeaways for everyone. Come prepared with questions—this is a rare chance to learn from one of improv’s true visionaries!

About Mick Napier: Founder and visionary behind the acclaimed Annoyance Theatre, Mick Napier is known both nationally and internationally as an innovator and creative force in comedy, improvisation, and theater. His belief in the element of risk-taking that is at the core of improvisation influences his work and his direction, inspiring genuine creativity in any project with which he is involved.

With the Annoyance, Mick has spent more than 20 years developing and cultivating a style of work and production that has been both acclaimed and imitated. As a Director and Artistic Consultant for the internationally renowned Second City he made his mark having directed more than 10 revues there, including the 40th and 50th Anniversary revues, and Paradigm Lost, which earned him a Joseph Jefferson Award for direction. Mick has also directed such high-profile actors and writers as Martin Short (Martin Short & Friends), Jeff Garlin (I want Someone to Eat Cheese With), and David & Amy Sedaris in their Obie Award Winning hit One Woman Shoe.

In film, Mick directed and edited Annoyance Productions’ first feature film Fatty Drives the Bus, which was released by Troma Pictures in November 1999. For television, he was

writer/performance director for the Cable Ace nominated Exit 57, which aired on Comedy Central for two seasons, Creative Producer on the nationally syndicated sketch TV show The Sports Bar, and for HBO/Comedy Central, he directed the live pilot: T.B.A. His original animations have appeared on the cable programs Tame Show, and R-Rated, as well as in the Chicago Comedy Film Festival.

In addition at The Annoyance, Mick has directed over 20 original productions. Notable ones include Coed Prison Sluts, the longest running musical in Chicago, Splatter Theater, an annual Halloween blood bath, The Tragedy of Balloon Boy, That Darn Antichrist, and more recently The Boy Scout Musical and Swear Jar.

As an Actor, Mick has appeared in the films Ice Harvest and Let’s Go to Prison, Watch, and Talent, and on television as a talent judge in the Canadian reality show Second to None, and in Shrink, a SeeSo television series. The documentary Second to None chronicles Mick’s process of directing a show for The Second City.

Mick’s first book, “Improvise. Scene from the Inside Out” (Heinemann, 2004) reached its 10th printing, and is widely regarded as a seminal work on the subject of Improvisation. It was re-issued with three additional chapters in 2016 under Meriwether Publishing. Meriwether published Mick’s second book, “Behind the Scenes: Improvising Long Form“, in 2016, as well.

Mick worked with many companies and organizations over the past 15 years in areas such as Communication, Collaboration, Innovation, Leadership, and Presentation.

Mick also enjoys a mentalist act with his partner and partner, Jennifer Estlin; they go by the name Napier and Estlin.

The Cold Sketch-Read Series is an opportunity for our Writing students to hear sketches they’re working on aloud while also providing our Conservatory / Acting / IFA students more reps in cold reads. Writing students will be able to learn where jokes are landing, what needs heightening, and if the premise is understandable. Students cast will gain experience working with a Director, analyze a script quickly, and elevate their commitment to character. Students are required to submit to this form to participate: PARTICIPATION FORM

The SCTC Advanced Improv Jam is for experienced improvisers looking to get more long form reps under their belt. With the guidance of our skillfully trained faculty, improvisers will learn a long form structure at the beginning of the jam, then be broken up into groups to showcase what they’ve just learned.