Bob Curry 2024/2025 Fellowship Audition Notice
Bob Curry 2024/2025 Fellowship Audition Notice
The Second City is proud to announce the return of the Bob Curry Fellowship, a tuition-free, 15-week professional development master program starting in October 2024.
We are seeking up to 10 exceptional fellows from diverse cultural backgrounds, who will have the opportunity to train and study under the guidance of Second City’s creative team and top instructors. This highly competitive fellowship is awarded to serious-minded talent who are selected through a rigorous audition process adjudicated by Second City directors and producers.
Following the 15-week masterclass, the selected talent will have the opportunity to participate in a series of public and industry showcases.
Qualifications: The Bob Curry Fellowship program is specifically seeking talent/applicants who are BIPOC. Talent must audition to be accepted into the program. To be eligible, talent should be a graduate of a Conservatory level improv program (e.g., Second City, iO Theater, Annoyance Theatre, UCB, etc.) Stand-ups, professional actors with a degree in theatre or extensive stage experience with some improv training are also qualified to submit.
Submissions open: Monday, July 29th 9am CT
Submissions close Friday, August 2nd 9am CT
Early or late submissions will not be reviewed
Key dates:
BY THE SECOND CITY | JUN 28, 2024
WePolak Show featuring workshop players & Special Guests
Date: July 7th 2024 from 7-9pm
Price : $25
Location: The Second City, MARTIN DE MAAT THEATER
Ticket Link:
Get ready for WePolak, an improv show that’s equal parts deep, funny, and magical! Watch as improv legend Jeff Michalski (co-founder of The Second City e.t.c. theater) and Poland’s Monika Ozdarska weave playful, wise scenes exploring relationships and life’s big questions. It’s a night of laughter and surprises that you won’t want to miss!
What Others Are Saying about WePolak Show:
About WePolak
WePolak is a creative collaboration between Jeff Michalski, co-founder of The Second City e.t.c. theater in Chicago, and Monika Ozdarska, a seasoned Polish improviser with over 12 years of performing and teaching experience.
Their story began online during the pandemic, but quickly transitioned to live performances, debuting at The Annoyance Theater in Chicago at the Comedy Expo 2022, before captivating audiences on international stages and festivals in Chicago, Uppsala, Toruń, Lisbon, and Ferry Beach. Remarkably, within less than 3 years, they have taken bows on 2 continents, 7 countries, and 10 cities with dozens of shows delighting audiences with the amount of ground they cover in a single set and their onstage chemistry as performers.
They share that delight in playing with each other. Their long-form improvised show is an artful montage of playfully wise explorations of human and non human relationships sprinkled with existential philosophy and performed with the creative intimacy and alacrity characteristic of improv masters.
Before the WePolak improv show, there will be a performance by the participants of Jeff’s weekend workshops. Join us for an excellent evening of improvisation!
FIND OUT MORE about WePolak: https://ozdarska.com/we-polak/
Contact us: wepolak@ozdarska.com
BY THE SECOND CITY | JUN 25, 2024
MASTER SCENEWORK and IMPROVISE like a PRO – 2 Days Workshop with The Improv Legend Jeff Michalski
Join us for a transformative 2-day workshop with improv legend Jeff Michalski, co-founder of The Second City e.t.c theatre. With 50 years of teaching experience, Jeff has honed a unique methodology focused on engagement, listening, and acting skills. In this workshop, you will explore movement, play, and conscious awareness to master the art of improvisation.
Jeff has worked with comedy greats like Dave Pasquesi, Ryan Stiles, Stephen Colbert, Chris Farley, and many others. Under his guidance, you will rediscover the core elements of successful improv: spontaneous discovery, connection with your scene partner, and an intuitive understanding of the scene’s essence.
This workshop is designed to elevate your performance, making every scene engaging and memorable. The skills you learn here are not only applicable to all styles of improvisation but also beneficial in everyday life.
For those who wish, the workshop culminates in a showcase featuring you and Jeff’s duo, WePolak. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the business!
Date: July 6-7th 2024
Time of day: 10am – 5pm (1h lunch time included)
Length of workshop: 12h
Maximum number of students: 14
Price:
Age restriction (if any): 18+
Location: The Second City Training Center, 230 W. North Avenue, Room 207
If you have any question contact us at: wepolak@ozdarska.com
About Jeff Michalski:
Jeff Michalski is an improv legend with a career spanning over five decades. Starting in 1974, he trained with Chicago’s best and co-founded The Second City ETC in 1983. His and the ensemble’s film careers began when Garry Marshall saw a show and cast everybody in the film Nothing in Common. A versatile actor and director, he has been on screen with Oscar winners Meryl Streep, Tom Hanks, Peter Falk, Jackie Gleason, Al Pacino, and others. Jeff’s evolving practice synthesizes his vast experiences on stage, in film, and television, offering you an unparalleled learning opportunity. Don’t miss out!
BY THE SECOND CITY | JUN 25, 2024
Celebrating 65 Years of Laughter: The Second City Announces 65th Anniversary Art Contest
CHICAGO – June 18, 2024 – Legendary comedy institution The Second City announced today its 65th Anniversary Art Contest to commemorate its decades of fostering comedic talent. As part of a drumbeat of celebratory moments, The Second City invites local Chicago artists and fans alike to participate in the contest offering a chance to showcase their original creativity and win exciting prizes.
The competition welcomes submissions from enthusiasts of all skill levels, ages 18 and up, now through July 24, 2024. There is no fee to enter. Whether it’s a clever illustration or a design inspired by The Second City’s rich history, participants are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild. Please view our full Rules & Guidelines
A distinguished selection committee will meticulously review all entries and narrow them down to the top three designs. However, the final decision will not be made behind closed doors. In an innovative twist, The Second City will turn to its vibrant social media community to determine the grand prize winner along with the first and second runner-ups.
“We believe in the power of community and creativity,” said Alexis LeBlanc, The Second City’s art director. By involving our community in the selection process, we’re not only celebrating our 65th anniversary but also showcasing the talent and passion of Chicagoans everywhere.”
By end of July, The Second City will unveil the top three designs on its social media platforms, inviting followers to cast their votes. The design with the most votes will receive a grand prize of $500 cash. Additionally, their design will be featured on an exclusive Second City t-shirt, available for purchase, with proceeds supporting the theater’s ongoing initiatives. The artist’s information will also be prominently displayed at The Second City’s box office, recognizing their contribution to this milestone celebration.
But the excitement doesn’t end there, the first runner-up will be awarded tickets to the mainstage show and complimentary food and beverages, offering an unforgettable evening. The second runner-up will receive a special merch package filled with Second City goodies to enjoy.
“We’re thrilled to invite our community to be a part of this special moment in our history,” added LeBlanc. “With your talent and creativity, we will continue to spread joy and laughter for another 65 years and beyond.”
For more information on The Second City, visit www.secondcity.com, www.secondcityworks.com and follow The Second City on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
BY THE SECOND CITY | JUN 18, 2024
Black Excellence Revue Returns to The Second City
The Black Excellence Revue Returns to The Second City in 2024
CHICAGO, IL – The 2024 Black Excellence Revue, titled Black By Popular Demand, is a groundbreaking comedy experience presented by The Second City. Back to banish the winter blues and fill the Windy City with laughter and good vibes, this show opens February 9, 2024, and runs through May 25, 2024.
Following up the completely sold-out engagement in 2023, Rob Wilson returns to direct this year’s revue, bringing together a dynamic cast of future stars, showcasing their hilarity with new songs, sketches, and the world-renowned style of improv that has become synonymous with The Second City. At The Black Excellence Revue, the audience is part of the show, echoing the vibrant ambiance of The Apollo.
Featuring an all BIPOC cast and crew, the production welcomes back cast members Arlieta Hall and Adonis Holmes. Devonte Washington returns as Stage Manager. The Second City is thrilled to welcome aboard the newest additions to the cast Breanna Ghostone, Samuel B. Jackson, Deshawn Mason and Faith Valerie. Tony Santiago joins as Associate Director and Sean Sykes joins as Musical Director. The rest of the crew includes Brenden Marble (Lighting Designer), Breon Arzell (Choreographer) and Chelsey Carter (Stylist).
The producing team includes Bryon Henderson (Producer), Elizabeth Howard (VP of Production) and Jen Ellison (Artistic Director). The Black Excellence Revue’s commitment to showcasing diversity in comedy is celebrated in the show’s blend of new original material, classic hits, and improvised mayhem reflecting a broad spectrum of experiences and perspectives that promises to engage, entertain, and delight audiences.
Performances take the stage on Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm for 16 weeks. Last year’s run was entirely sold out, so audiences are encouraged to book their tickets early.
Tickets start at $29.00 and are available by phone at 312-337-3992 or online at secondcity.com.
Meet the Cast:
BREANNA GHOSTONE (Ensemble) is a multi-talented artist, represented by Gray Talent Group, known for her versatility in singing, acting, and dancing. She holds a Master’s degree in Opera and Musical Theatre Performance from Arizona State University and previously earned a Bachelor’s degree in Opera Performance from The University of Michigan. Breanna has left her mark in the world of musical theater, with notable performances in productions like Hairspray (Power Center for Performing Arts), Legally Blonde The Musical (Evelyn Smith Theatre), West Side Story (The Phoenix Theatre Company), Sing Out Second City (The Second City), New Faces Sing Broadway 1947 (Porchlight Theatre), and Trouble in Mind (TimeLine Theatre). Beyond the stage, Breanna has delved into the realm of on-camera work, contributing to educational industrials for respected companies such as Verizon Wireless and McGraw Hill. She is deeply passionate about supporting black film projects, having been involved in endeavours like The Detroit Project and The FUNNEL, both of which explore themes of black love, displacement, and resilience. Additionally, Breanna has showcased her talent in the commercial world, featuring in advertisements for well-known brands like Gatorade and AutoZone, and more recently, Crunch Fitness. Her versatility and dedication to the arts make her a dynamic and impactful presence in the entertainment industry. Breanna is thrilled to be back at Second City for the Black Excellence Revue!
ARLIETA HALL (Ensemble) is a host, actress, improviser, stand-up comedian, writer, and a first-time filmmaker from Chicago. She is a one of The Second City NBC Bob Curry Fellowship 2021 recipients. Arlieta also co-starred as Sadie on Showtime’s The CHI episodic and is a co-producer of the comedy variety show My Best Friend is Black. Arlieta was a caregiver for her father who died from Alzheimer’s disease. She took the power of “Yes, and…” to communicate with him and used their story to make her first feature documentary “Finding Your Laughter”. Her film was one of ten documentaries selected to participate in The New York Gotham Documentary Feature Lab, which is one of the US film industry’s most prestigious labs. Prior to caregiving for her father Arlieta was an Human Services Caseworker for the State Of Illinois Department of Human Services . Arlieta also obtained her Bachelor of Arts In Communications and has over a decade of experience in the educational and social services field. She recently wrote and performed in The Second City’s sold-out 2023 Black Excellence Revue and is now a 2023-24 Sisters in Cinema Documentary Fellow. She is currently performing comedy all around while she continues to work on the completion of Finding Your Laughter and other projects. Follow Arlieta and catch her around the city at www.findingyourlaughter.com www.arlietahall.com and @Arlieta_Hall_ on social media.
ADONIS HOLMES (Ensemble) is a Writer, Performer, and Comedian out of Chicago. Adonis graduated from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign with a Bachelors in Psychology and Anthropology. Having produced, directed, and written several shows in the Champaign-Urbana community, he started taking improv classes and regularly performing at the iO Theater. Adonis has been featured in several sketch shows throughout the city, including Chicago Sketch Fest and the Best of Annoyance sketch show, along with being a principal writer and performer for Second City’s Dance Like There are Black People Watching: A Black Excellence Revue. Currently Adonis is a member of Devil’s Daughter Improv, the independent improv team The Mermaids, a 2022 Bob Curry Fellow, and serves as Director and Co-creator of the all-Black improv show, Satirical Race Theory. Adonis also serves as Co-Artistic Director of the iO Theater.
SAMUEL B. JACKSON (Ensemble) is excited to be making his comedy debut at The Second City! He’s performed on several stages across Chicago, including Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Northlight Theatre, and the Black Ensemble Theatre. Proudly repped by Stewart Talent, you can find him on IG @samuelbjackson
DESHAWN MASON (Ensemble) Born in New York City, raised in the South. Deshawn started his comedic journey over 11 years ago in Charleston, SC. His first foray into the art form was stand-up comedy. Now over a decade into the process, Deshawn has performed nationwide. Hitting multiple stages for comedy festivals, headlining gigs, and anything he can sink his teeth into. Deshawn’s love and exploration truly in Savannah, GA in 2021, just two years later, and over 300 different improv shows he’s excited to share what he’s learned. He’s also an aficionado of Magic, Sketch Comedy, Acting, food, and conversation. He can’t wait to meet you.
FAITH VALERIE (Ensemble) is an actress, writer, dancer, singer, and model from Plainfield, IL. Her Second City career began while she was taking improv classes last year, during which she became an understudy for Dance Like There Are Black People Watching. She attended the University of Notre Dame, with a focus in Musical Theatre, as well as studied dance at Illinois Dance Academy and Revolution Dance Studio. She has school ties to two people in the show, guess who?! She is an accomplished model having photographed campaigns for Nike and walking runway shows for many designers in Chicago and New York. She loves her 7 siblings who are funnier than her, her parents, and nieces and nephews very much. She is also a House music head, and you can find her following her DJ friends around the city. You can also find her playing with improv groups Crop-Top Comedy and Hot Girl Comedy and on Instagram @faithvaleriee. She is represented by 10MGMT with a partnership from Grossman & Jack Talent.
Meet the Crew:
BREON ARZELL (Choreographer) is a dedicated teaching artist, specializing in hip-hop, jazz, contemporary, lyrical and body percussion; and serves as mentor to several universities, studios and theaters. Chicago: How Blood Go (Congo Square Theatre), Dance Like Black People are Watching (Second City), Kill Move Paradise* (TimeLine Theatre), The Color Purple (Drury Lane), The Wiz, Head Over Heels*, American Psycho (Kokandy Productions), The Total Bent* (Haven Theatre), The House That Will Not Stand (Victory Gardens), Marie Christine, The Scottsboro Boys, Little Shop of Horrors, The Hairy Ape* and more. Regional: Dreamgirls (Goodspeed Musicals), RENT & The Color Purple (MUNY), FELA! & Miss You Like Hell (Olney Theatre), Once on This Island (Oregon Shakespeare Festival), Acoustic Rooster (Kennedy Center). TV: South Side, The 4400. While working internationally, he is listed among the ‘50 Players for Chicago’ (2018, 2020, 2023), and recipient of 6 Jeff Awards*. Along with developing original works, he is restoring and reviving a historical black musical. @breonarzell // www.breonarzell.com
CHELSEY CARTER (Stylist) native to Saint Louis MO, moved to Chicago in 2006 in efforts of pursuing her dreams to become a well-known designer. She applied and was accepted to The Art Institute – Chicago. Chelsey focuses on the abstract for inspiration for her designs. Her brand, Alex Carter which she launched in 2015, is unisex, catering to customers who are
risktaking and statement-making. Her goal is to exude sensuality in her clothing without having to bare it all. One of her biggest role models is her grandmother, who embodies everything she strives to be as a woman and feeds her drive as a designer. Her jackets can be seen on SZA and Chance the Rapper, and she has sold to Erykah Badu. She has been featured in Vogue Italia and many other magazines such as Verluxe, SunTimes and Tribune. The Alex Carter brand is known for creating everyday clothes for not so everyday people.
BRENDEN MARBLE (Lighting Designer) Is excited to be coming back to Second City! After studying theater design at Eastern Michigan University, the Detroit MI native moved to Chicago to start living their dream of becoming a lighting designer! Recent credits include A Hit Dog Will Holler (Artemisia Theatre), Fairview (Definition Theater), Currents (Chicago Fringe Opera), and Dance Like There Are Black People Watching (Second City Chicago) Even though his career is just beginning, he knows this is something he wants to do for the rest of his life.
TONY SANTIAGO (Associate Director) is a creative engineer centering technology to help connect people to the arts. Santiago manages Arts + Public Life’s Performance Residency and teaches the Community Actor’s Program for high-school-aged youth at Green Line Performance Arts Center in Washington Park. Professional credits include Community Data Manager for We Will Chicago with Honey Pot Performance, Spinning Home Movies with the South Side Home Movie Project Producer, and Editor and Technical Director of the Rapid Response Series with Illinois Humanities. Tony currently sits on the board of the Katherine Dunham Center in East Saint Louis. When not working, Tony enjoys cooking, biking, and watching movies on the big screen.
SEAN SYKES (Musical Director) is excited to be behind the keys playing live shows again! Sean has done musical direction for the Second City e.t.c. Mainstage, and Touring Company as well as the Bob Curry and NBC universal showcases. Sean earned a bachelor’s in music education at the University of Mississippi and is happily still using that amazing diploma to teach fourth grade music at the University of Chicago laboratory schools in Hyde Park. Sean gives a special thanks to producers, the amazing cast, everyone behind the scenes, and you our audience members. Enjoy the show!
DEVONTE E. WASHINGTON (Stage Manager) is a Chicago native built up his skills in Backstage production. He has molded his skills by learning the aspects of designing and building shows from scratch he found his home in Theater. His Talents have been used with many events, venues and shows throughout the city. Getting better with every show he wants to continue to get better at what he does while continuously learning more and more. This will be his second time working on the Black Excellence Show and he is excited for you to see this show.
ROB WILSON (Director) is so proud of this amazing cast and crew. He made his Second City Directorial debut with SuperAfroWavyDrippy-ExtraBrillantDope Show. He has since directed Dance Like There are Black People Watching here and created the film projects Lil Monsters and The Basement Rob is repped by Stewart Talent and you can see what he’s working on at his IG @Rob_Willsun.
BY THE SECOND CITY | DEC 19, 2023
New Year’s Eve at the Second City – Toronto
Start the New Year on a hilarious note with The Second City Toronto! Join us for one of our incredible shows that guarantee to leave you laughing your way into 2024. Secure your tickets now and let the comedy countdown begin!
BY THE SECOND CITY | DEC 13, 2023
New Year’s Eve at The Second City – Chicago
Start the New Year on a hilarious note with The Second City Chicago! Join us for one of our incredible shows that guarantee to leave you laughing your way into 2024. Secure your tickets now and let the comedy countdown begin!
BY THE SECOND CITY | DEC 13, 2023
The Second City Named in Fast Company’s Third Annual List of Brands That Matter
The annual list honors companies and nonprofits that have built cultural relevance and impact through
compelling branding and efforts that naturally extend their presence into communities
CHICAGO —October 3, 2023 – Legendary comedy institution The Second City has been named today
on Fast Company’s third annual Brands That Matter list, honoring brands that communicate and
demonstrate brand purpose. This prestigious recognition highlights companies and nonprofits that
have built cultural relevance and impact through compelling branding and efforts that naturally
extend their presence into the community.
The Second City is honored in the ‘Enduring Impact: 15+ Years in Business’ category for its nearly 65
years of dedication to fostering the next generation of comedy and continuing to innovate its content
and business to reflect the human experience today from every angle.
“We are thrilled to be recognized by Fast Company as one of the ‘Brands That Matter’ for 2023,” said
The Second City CEO, Ed Wells. “This acknowledgment reflects our dedication and passion for
shaping the comedy landscape, developing future generations of talent, and improving lives through
our Yes, And training philosophy for over six decades.”
Fast Company editors judged each brand on relevancy, cultural impact, ingenuity, and business
impact to compile the list.
Click here to see the complete list.
The Fall issue of Fast Company magazine is available online now and will be on newsstands
beginning October 10, 2023.
About Fast Company
Fast Company is the only media brand fully dedicated to the vital intersection of business,
innovation, and design, engaging the most influential leaders, companies, and thinkers on the future
of business. The editor-in-chief is Brendan Vaughan. Headquartered in New York City, Fast Company
is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with our sister publication, Inc., and can be found
online at fastcompany.com.
BY THE SECOND CITY | OCT 03, 2023
(20) Days of Summer Improv For Free!
It’s summer. The weather’s warm, the vibe is good, and you’re not looking for anything serious right now. We totally get it. Neither are we. So, what we’re putting on the table is a no-strings-attached, commitment free, Drop In Improv class. We’d even make it free, if you’d be down. Need convincing?
With our drop-in classes, you can:
Sure, improv can be about making people laugh, but it’s also so much more than that. By jumping in a free drop-in class, you’ll not only learn the art of improvisation but also benefit from some maybe unexpected perks.
Improv is all about thinking on your feet and being spontaneous. As you become more comfortable on stage and with your classmates, you’ll naturally feel more confident in your everyday life.
Improv is an incredible way to flex your creative muscles. The more you practice, the more innovative and imaginative your ideas will become.
Improv is all about active listening and responding to your scene partners. These skills are crucial in everyday life and can help improve your personal and professional relationships.
According to the Harvard Journal of Science*, when you show up to participate or engage in something you’re interested in, the likelihood of meeting someone else who is also interested in that thing goes up by a whopping 75,000%.
3 out of 4 dermatologists agree that laughter is the best medicine. Doing improv not only helps you blow off steam but also teaches you to think on your feet and not sweat the small stuff. We have no idea what’s up with that 4th dermatologist. We aren’t gonna worry about it. (See?!)
You might be thinking, “This sounds great, but I’ve never done improv before. Can I still come?” Yes! And… our free drop-in classes are perfect for beginners and seasoned improvisers alike. Our experienced yet gentle instructors will ensure that everyone feels welcome and included, regardless of their skill level.
We have air conditioning. It’s August, let’s not kid ourselves. And after your class you can hang out with your new friends and grab a cold drink at our bar!
THE PRICE IS RIGHT (free)
Drop-in classes are the perfect opportunity to explore the world of improvisation without fear. You can come when you want, learn at your own pace, and discover the joys of improv! You might make some new friends, or find your new favorite hobby, or discover a hidden talent you never knew you had! The possibilities are endless.
We can’t wait to see you, and who knows – you might just be the next big thing in comedy! (NO PRESSURE)
BY THE SECOND CITY | JUL 11, 2023
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