Take a Class in Chicago - The Second City

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.

Ready to complete your improv foundation? Improv 1B continues where Improv 1A leaves off, diving deeper into scene work, character development, and emotional exploration. Over 4 weeks, you’ll build on your earlier skills by exploring scenic initiation, justification, and the art of heightening—taking simple ideas and pushing them further to discover new comedic or dramatic possibilities. You’ll also practice playing with emotions and learn how to create simple yet engaging scenes with a clear sense of who, what, and where. Improv 1B completes the curriculum of the full 7-week Improv 1 course, offering the same skills and experiences but with added scheduling flexibility. By the end, you’ll feel more confident in your ability to collaborate, start creating dynamic scenes, and trust your creative instincts. Pre-requisite: Improv 1A 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 creatio

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Learn the fundamentals of writing and performing stand-up comedy in a space dedicated to underrepresented genders. This includes students who are cis women, trans women, trans men, non-binary people, and those who are otherwise marginalized on the basis of gender.

In Stand Up 1 you will develop yourself as a solo comedic performer by writing and workshopping your own material. By understanding how earlier stand-up comics evolved, you will experiment outside your comfort zone and experiment as you work to discover your own unique style. Students will have regular writing assignments during the term. Class culminates in a final performance.

This class will be taught by a female LGBTQIA+ Second City faculty member and will create an environment where emerging women and gender-diverse stand-up comics have their voices heard, supported & developed. The Second City Training Center is committed to building a community where artists can come together to learn safely and play freely.

This class culminates in a performance that happens outside of class time.

Chill Comedy Class offers a calm, easy-going environment where students can explore improvisation and comedy at their own pace. We believe you are the expert in your own comfort, and we encourage you to let us know what you need to enjoy the improv experience in a way that feels right for you. Bring along your fidgets, headphones, blankets, cozy chairs—whatever helps you stay CHILL while discovering fun, creative ways to play improv comedy games.

This is a judgment-free zone where all types of learners are welcome. If you’re looking for a space that honors your boundaries, supports your comfort, and encourages creativity, this could be the perfect fit.

This class might be right for you if:

· You want to try improv comedy without the pressure to perform.

· You connect with others but find sensory needs can make loud spaces overwhelming.

· You’re looking for a safe, supportive environment with tips and ideas from the instructor.

· You benefit from strategies like visual schedules, demonstrations, timers, or more processing time.

· You want a space where your boundaries are respected, whether it’s avoiding certain topics or skipping handshakes.

· You believe in the platinum rule: treat others the way they want to be treated.

· You want a chill, creative space with fellow chill humans.

About the instructor:

Catrina Hughes, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a skilled speech-language pathologist and Second City Chicago faculty member, known for her dedication to empowering youth and adults in navigating social interactions with confidence and joy. With specialized training in neurodiversity-affirming practices and sensory accommodations, Catrina brings a unique and compassionate approach to teaching improv.

With over 15 years of experience in both public schools and private therapy settings, Catrina has supported youth and adults in accessing education and building social connections. Her improv classes focus on fostering student autonomy, creating a comfortable environment, and encouraging playful peer connections.

Catrina has been teaching improv for more than 5 years and holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, alongside her license as an SLP in Illinois. She earned her Master’s in Communication Sciences & Disorders.

You’ve completed the Improv for Anxiety program, and now it’s time to take the next step! The 7-week IFAX Performance Ensemble is designed just for you to continue building on your improv skills.

In this warm, welcoming space, you’ll discover new improv games and revisit old favorites, all while working on your personal goals. The lessons are tailored to what excites and motivates you, and by the end of the term, you’ll have the chance to perform with your fellow ensemble members.

You’re welcome to join the IFAX Performance Ensemble as many times as you like. Every session offers new challenges, new instructors, and new ensemble members to collaborate with, helping you grow as an improviser.

Prerequisite: Completion of IFAX 5.

Are you interested in taking a stand up class, but you’re not quite sure if it’s right for you? Give it a test drive! Our weekly drop-in stand-up class for beginners is open to everyone. It’s a great opportunity to practice, have some fun, and meet new people!

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.

We all have a story to tell, now let’s take it to the next level! A more in-depth storytelling class for the people who took 101 or for those who feel seasoned enough to dive deeper into what makes a good compelling story really come alive in us. We will look at and study other forms of storytelling: from TikToks to essays to stage performances and podcasts. And at the end of the class, each participant will leave with a performance ready story or two.

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

The LGBTQIA+ Open Mic is for people who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual and all of the other identities not encompassed in the short acronym only and the open mic will be hosted by a LGBTQIA+ faculty member.

The open mic is a chance for emerging stand ups to test out their material in front of a supportive live crowd. Each comic (up to 18 will be able to perform) will get 3 minutes of stage time to try out new bits and develop their set.

Note that you must be an active student to register.

The Second City Training Center’s goal is to provide a safe environment for LGBTQ+ students across the larger comedy community to come together and play freely.

MUST BE A CURRENTLY REGISTERED STUDENT TO ATTEND.

The SCTC Student Jam is a chance to learn some new improv games, play some old favorites, and get in some improv reps. All levels are welcome for a variety of exercises ranging from warmups, group exercises , two-person scenes, backline games, etc. Come to play or to watch!

SCTC Student Jams are only open to current SC students. Registrants who are not enrolled in a class will be removed.

Level-up your comedic game in this immersive week-long program designed to take your improvisational skills to new heights and transform them into side-splitting sketch comedy. Led by seasoned comedy veterans and instructors, this intensive is perfect for experienced improvisers looking to expand their comedic toolkit.

Throughout the week, dive into the heart of comedy creation through a series of collaborative exercises and improvisational workshops. Explore the fundamentals of scene work, character development, and comedic timing as you sharpen your instincts and embrace spontaneity.

Under the guidance of our expert instructors, you’ll learn how to mine improvisational gold and translate it into hilarious scripted sketches using the same process of re-improvisation that our resident talent uses to create Second City’s iconic sketch & improv shows. Through improvisation-based brainstorming sessions and structured scene work, you’ll discover how to generate comedic premises, develop memorable characters, and craft dialogue that leaves audiences in stitches.

This intensive isn’t just about honing your individual skills—it’s about the power of ensemble collaboration. Dive into the collaborative process of comedy creation where every laugh is earned together.

Prerequisite: at least one full year of training in scenic improvisation (Improv 1-5 or equivalent)

Please note this course may be canceled if it is does not meet minimum registration requirements. The Second City is not responsible for any additional costs such as travel or accommodations.

LGBTQIA+ Community Improv Jams

The Second City Training Center’s goal is to provide a safe environment for LGBTQ+ students across the larger improv community to come together and play freely. This event is free; no experience is required and participants do not have to be enrolled in a Second City class to participate. We do ask that those planning to attend register in advance for the event.

The LGBTQIA+ Jam is for people who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual and all of the other identities not encompassed in the short acronym only and the jam will be hosted by a LGBTQIA+ faculty member.

The SCTC Student Jam is a chance to learn some new improv games, play some old favorites, and get in some improv reps. All levels are welcome for a variety of exercises ranging from warmups, group exercises, two-person scenes, backline games, etc. Come to play or to watch!

MUST BE A CURRENTLY REGISTERED STUDENT TO ATTEND.

BIPOC Community Improv Jams

The Second City Training Center’s goal is to provide a safe environment for BIPOC-identifying students across the larger improv community to come together and play freely. These short form jams are free; no experience is required and participants do not have to be enrolled in a Second City class to participate. We do ask that those planning to attend register for the event in advance.

The BIPOC Jam is for people who identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Color only and the jam will be hosted by a BIPOC faculty member.

This seven-week Musical Improv course combines our Level 1 and 2 Fundamentals classes into one term. Topics explored and practiced are melody building, rhyming, and improvising both simple and complex song structures; creating memorable solo and group songs from solid scenic choices; and working as a group to play both music improv games and long form pieces. There is no pre-requisite for the class.

Do you struggle with group scenes? Do you find every scene with more than 2 people just devolves into chaos with as many games as there are people talking over each other? Then, this workshop is for you! Join Second City alum Alex Bellisle for this two-day workshop where we will focus on various types of group scenes and how to attack them with actionable steps. Don’t let group scenes intimidate you anymore. Sign up, today!

Suggested Prerequisite: completion of Improv 5 or equivalent experience

Improv for ages 7 – 10 is for kids who want an introduction to improvisation. This class uses the tenets of improv like agreement, listening, and emotions to teach kids basic life skills. It gets them out of their heads and active while showing them new ways they can work with and learn from others. Students meet kids from other schools and neighborhoods and from lasting friendships. This class provides an opportunity to create improv and work with kids in activities that are not sports related.

This class teaches the building blocks of basic improv and introduces kids to the fundamental aspects of stage craft. The games and exercises develop emotional intelligence. The focus here is put on physical expression as well as verbal communication. The kids will learn how to work on a big project and have fun with others.

Students will be led through some basic improv exercises and games. These are meant to be fun and focus on communication and teamwork. Kids will work on being a good ensemble member as well as developing their individual skills in a low-pressure environment. There are some aspects of performing involved, but students are not asked to perform on stage.

This course is intended for students in elementary school, grades 2-5.

On the last day of class, the final 15-20 minutes of class time feature an in-class presentation by students that parents/guardians are welcome to attend. These are in-classroom and not a ticketed event, so space is very limited. Dates and times subject to change.

This is not a joke! “The Student Open Mic” is a chance for emerging stand ups to test out their material in front of a supportive live crowd. Each comic (up to 18 will be able to perform) will get 3 minutes of stage time to try out new bits and develop their set. Hosted by a fantastic member of our faculty!

Note that you must be an active student to register.

Need to update or take a new headshot? Timothy Schmidt is a Chicago-based photographer and editor who has spent more than a decade covering film, red carpets, music events, and theater throughout the city. You might have seen his work all over the Second City building showcasing our stages and casts! Visit @timothymschmidt on instagram or www.TimothyMSchmidt.com for examples of Tim’s work. The photoshoot will be in studio on a white seamless backdrop.

You’ll receive 1 images that will be lightly retouched for lighting and color. Images are digital only and will be sent via Dropbox.

Please come dressed in your first-choice outfit and bring a second wardrobe option just in case (i.e. shirts, jackets, accessories, are best for a quick change). You must arrive with hair and makeup camera ready. (The studio lights and camera will accentuate any oil on the skin so light foundation or powder is highly recommended for all.) The more prepared you arrive the better your shots will be!

Coached Ensembles are a great improv performance opportunity for all current students as well as anyone who has completed Improv 3 and above. Following the auditions, ensembles will be created, and each will be coached by one of our fantastic faculty members. Each ensemble gets a 4-week run in the de Maat Theater. There is no cost to participate. Selected performers can expect a 6–8-week commitment.

The Musical Improv Program is for improvisers who love creating musical scenes, and are excited to use music in their comedy career. The Second City uses songs and musical improv on all of it’s stages, and learning how to do it is a lot of fun! Students who complete this program will graduate with a deeper understanding of musical improv, approached in it’s many forms – in game play, narrative, and written work. The aim is to create improvisers who can execute these skills on a professional stage at The Second City, or anywhere else. Students in this program can expect support, encouragement, and notes to grow by. 

LEVELS 1 – 2 

The first two levels of the music program focus on demystifying musical improv and it’s many elements, and turning them into executable and performable skills! Game play, making strong vocal and musical choices, song structures and rhyming; building musical scenes with authenticity, and building group songs in a fun and supportive environment. Shows are scheduled at each level, and a retention audition is held at the end of Level 2. 

LEVELS 3 – 5 

The goal of Levels 3-5 is to give the student a professional level experience of musical improv training. Game play for the audience, styles and genres, and long form narratives will be explored with an eye toward re-improvisation and lyric writing. Each level will have a show, with Level 5 culminating in previews and a four-show run of a musical variety show. 

AUDITIONS 

Please come dressed comfortably for movement and ready to sing! Walk-ins may be accommodated, but are not guaranteed. 

• Prerequisites and Eligibility

  A full year of improv training at The Second City is required. We will also consider a year long program at an approved school in conjunction with one Acting class post High School.

  Interested auditioners who have NOT completed a year of training at Second City should first submit their training information via this submission form. The approval to audition will be confirmed by a staff member or else another program will be recommended. Auditioners who have not taken classes with us are also recommended to create a student profile when applying. Students who have completed the audition requirements should submit the form or contact the Training Center to ensure the audition approval.

  Music Conservatory is an 11-month time commitment. We ask all students who are accepted be prepared to commit financially and artistically, and be ready to register for the term directly following the audition. Deferments are not allowed. If you cannot commit to this, please do not audition until you are able to commit fully.

  Please contact us at customerservice@secondcity.com with any questions about the training prerequisites or eligibility.

Intro to Writing for TV & Film is for anyone who wants to learn the crucial basics of writing for film and television or anyone with a great idea of a movie who needs help putting it into (properly formatted) words. It gives you a strong foundation for TV and film writing, demystifies the language and process of writing, and gives you the tools to begin turning your great idea into the next Citizen Kane/Troop Beverly Hills (same thing).

You’ll learn about the language of film/TV writing, the importance of deadlines, the unique qualities of a cinematic story versus a sketch, lots of screenplay formatting, how and what to pitch, and the scale of your ideas.

You’ll watch films and TV shows with a critical ear for dialogue and structure, read scripts, learn how to pitch, pitch those great ideas, and create outlines or treatments for that million-dollar sitcom or film idea. Oh, and table reads!

This course is a great introduction to the Comedy TV Pilots and Writing for Late Night programs.

Learn a new form or dive deeper into one you already know and love. This is a workshop for experienced improvisers who are looking to take their longform knowledge to the next level. Students will come together to immerse themselves in a single format.

A space for experienced improvisers to work through a high volume of improvised scenes with a focus on individual feedback and scenic exercises specifically designed to take each player’s performance to the next level.

Recommended pre-requisite: Improv 5 or equivalent experience

Is there a song in your heart that you would love to explore? Join us for a taste of musical improv! Learn improv skills and games through a musical lens while meeting new people in a fun and supportive environment. No experience is necessary to participate in this playful 90 minute drop-in class.

Thinking about trying improv? Our in-person drop-in classes are the perfect non-committal taste. No prior experience is necessary for these fun, relaxed introductions to some of the skills of improvised comedy. Meet new people, learn games & exercises and share 90-minutes of laughs each time you join us.

The Homemade Jam is a fun, welcoming and encouraging improv jam for students of the Second City Community held on the first and third Friday of every month. It’s founded in Second City’s “Yes And, Creativity & Respect” philosophy and is led by Second City improv instructors Janet Davidson & Brie Watson. It’s a place to learn and grow from the comfort of home.

Sign up using this form and you will be sent the Zoom link to participate on the day of the jam.

Join Darcy Kendall for our virtual musical improv jam! Play, sing, meet new people… all from the comfort of your home. (No prior singing/music experience necessary.)

Sign up using the linked form and you will be sent the Zoom link to participate on the day of the jam.

The Writing 6 class is holding actor auditions for their final shows. The actors will be featured in the show run for this class. Current students are invited to audition. We recommend auditioners have completed at least Improv 3 or be part of our Conservatory, Acting, or Improv for Actors programs.  

You will be asked to submit a digital headshot and resume prior to the audition. Be prepared to both improvise and do a cold read. If any materials will need to be prepared for the audition, these will be shared prior to the audition date. The auditions and all classes and performances will happen virtually for online classes, and in-person at the Chicago Training Center for in-person classes

Improv is often separated into two broad categories: longform and shortform. While the single greatest distinction between them is time/duration, there are specific skills and techniques that can help an improviser sustain the audience’s interest and investment in a longer unscripted performance. This class is a space for intermediate improvisers to learn those fundamentals, be introduced to the vocabulary of longform improv and begin to experiment with formats.

Course topics include:

• How and when to edit
• Developing ensemble group-mind
• Deriving inspiration from audience suggestions
• Introduction to simple formats
• Supporting from the backline/wings