Chicago advice

[timmybono]

I know a lot of people will say "post on the chicago forum:" but i am looking for the coolest stuff in chicago, improv and non as well. i am going for two days,, tomorrow and i want to see the best stuff and not waste time and money, so for all my fellow NYer's what are your best experiences from going to chi town? any help is appreciated.

and i will only allow one to three "check with the chicagoians" replies

 

[MichelleD]

There's a ton of comedy (improv) but you probably know that, and lots of small theater companies as well, the quality is great and the prices are right. Last time I was in town I saw the Breakbone Dance Company which was outstanding. Check out the Chicago Reader when you get there, or something like that and you'll find lots of things to do.

I think Chicago hot dogs are too weird - too many toppings, not a great hot dog underneath it all, too soggy.

 

[Brian Stack]

Timmy,

I wish I knew which shows are worth seeing there these days, but I would definitely check out the websites for Second City, IO, and the Annoyance Theatre to see what's showing. I can say without reservation, though, that if you have the chance to see "T.J. and Dave" at IO, definitely see it. Maybe you've already seen them, though?

If you're near Michigan Avenue (near the Wrigley Building), I would recommend stopping below street level at The Billy Goat Tavern. I always have one of their "cheez-buggahs" when I'm back in town. They're horrible for my arteries but great for my soul.

If there are any good bands playing at Cabaret Metro on Clark Street, you might want to stop in there, too. It's still my all-time favorite place to see live music.

If you're near Second City, and you feel like having a beer or twelve, you might want to stop in at The Old Town Ale House on North Avenue across from the Second City ETC space. It's worth it just to see the old painting of Del Close (and others) on the wall.

I wish I knew more about what's happening in Chicago these days. You could always check out the Chicago Reader on-line or New City on-line for more info.

Have a good trip, sir!

Brian

 

[MichelleD]

also the Old Town School of Folk Music has good shows.

 

[Brian Stack]

I agree wholeheartedly with MichelleD about The Old Town School of Folk Music having good shows. I've only seen one concert there myself (Bill Morrissey--excellent show) but I remember lots of great names coming through town to play there. If you like that kind of music, that is.