(long pause) (Image) The "live taping" performances of the sketch comedy series (long pause) combine separate video and live elements, with every scene directly linking to the next. The members, all in or near their thirties, create material reflecting a feeling of suspended anticipation of a life one is not living to his or her fullest yet.
4 Days Late (Image) America: land of the free and home of Honey Boo Boo. 4 Days Late thinks American life is ready for a satirical smack down. Silence your iPhone 5, pour yourself a big gulp and let's get ready to RUUMMMMBBBBLLLE!
45 to an Hour (Image) One man’s daily struggle just to deliver your food on time, and the reason he’s always late: you.
Acid Reflux (Image) Acid Reflux is back for year two at Chicago Sketchfest! Founded 7 years ago in the suburbs of Chicago, the troupe has since performed all over the midwest. Seeing an Acid show is like being at an unsupervised slumber party...there's probably drinking, probably fondling, and lots to laugh at. Pajamas encouraged.
All Grown Up (Image) Ashley Black, Jeremiah Howe, Jose Molina, Cristy von Rautenkranz, and Nick White are all grown up. Like seriously, they have jobs and wedding rings and stuff and get pregnant on purpose. And they totally get it now. Like they are winning at being grown ups and at life. Seriously.
Astronaut Theatre (Image) Astronaut Theatre performs non burlesque sketch comedy that mixes the hilarity of the mundane with an abundance of weird characters, a few pop culture references, and the occasional giggle at things once deemed un-giggable. And who doesn’t like an over-the-top song and dance number? We certainly don’t not like it.
ATC Teen Comedy Troupe (Image) The ATC Comedy Troupe is made up of advanced teen performers from the Actors Training Center at the Wilmette Theatre. The unfiltered creativity of these kids will leave you dazed, amazed, and energized.
Awkward Silence (Image) Awkward Silence is a seven year old sketch comedy group, which means developmentally we respond to the mood of music through movement and dance and show greater body awareness as we imitate and distinguish among various body shapes and combine motor skills like running to kick a ball, rolling after landing from a jump or traveling in rhythm to music. But, to be clear we've been funny since birth. Just ask our parents.
BARRETTA (Image) Ber·et·a, n. A gun manufacturer. Bar·et·ta, n. A '70s TV cop. Bar·ret·ta, n. A compound word for Carisa Barreca and Kevin Sciretta, the couple and sketch duo who want to make you laugh almost as much as they want to eat candy for dinner. Carisa Barreca and Kevin Sciretta are BARRETTA
Barry Hite: Charisma Machine (Image) Barry Hite: Charisma Machine explores people who really love themselves, the awful situations they get into, and the reasons we can't stop watching. Charisma Machine was written by one guy: Barry Hite, features two other fellas: Jeff Murdoch and Joey Romaine and was directed by Matt Hovde. There may be a T Shirt cannon.
Big Pink Loser (Image) The date is December 21, 2012, and the world is on edge. At exactly 6pm, all news channels will be counting down until midnight in hopes that the world will continue, and life will go on....but will it? "We're Still Here" will take you on a roller coaster ride of laughs, tears, and fear, exploring the ancient belief that 12/21/12 is quite possibly the last day on Earth. Join Big Pink Loser on the quest to find the truth.....is this The Great Period of 13 b'ak'tuns (look it up)? Or will mankind finally come together as one race, culminating in a Hands Across the World rendition of "Kumbaya"? Also, there will be an eagle.
Billy Sullivan Presents: Thoughts from the Easel Board (Image) A unique solo show (with some guests), Billy takes you along on a roadtrip to the absurd. With characters, scenes, gimmicks and maybe even a man's inner thoughts are brought to light. Nothing too absurd, obscure or even silly.
Boat (Image) Boat performs sketches so good your head may explode. Boat is sharp, satirical, and often surreal. You will love Boat and Boat will love you back.
Bri-Ko (Image) All Silent, All Funny.
British Teeth (Image) Known for their zany character-based comedy and fast-paced witty dialogue, British Teeth take audiences on a romp through the foibles of humanity! From lesbian mothers to raunchy bikers to murderous six year olds, this is character-driven sketch comedy like you ain't never seen before!
Butch LaRue (Image) Butch LaRue is like a refreshing shot of Jameson. It makes your night fun and memorable, but shoot too much of it, and you’ll wake up next to a dirty spinster with camel toe. Chicago Theater Beat calls the "caustic and biting wit of Butch LaRue fresh, funny, and a bawdy good time!" See the show described by ExpressMilwaukee.com as "a slightly more literate SNL.”
Cake-n-Hatred (Image) Formed at The Second City Training Center Chicago, Cake-n-Hatred performances are an honestly satirical shows that say exactly what everyone is thinking. Cake-n-Hatred credits include Des Plaines Comedy Festival 2012, Chicago Sketchfest 2012, and the Chicago Women's Funny Festival 2012. It’s a dose of semi-sweet comedy sure to rot your funny bone.
Cell Camp (Image) Cell Camp's twisted style, unexpected wit, and innovative usage of multimedia stands out and continues to create buzz. SNL alum Garrett Morris called the group "brilliant" while Time Out Chicago dubbed Cell Camp one of the "best and brightest" at the 2009 Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival. Expect raunchy language, nudity, gay sex, regular sex, cartoon violence, awkward situations, dated humor and less!
Charles (Image) A cerebral and imaginative sketch duo from Seattle, Charles is intelligent without sacrificing accessibility, seamlessly combining highbrow and lowbrow sensibilities into a brand of humor they call unibrow. Winners, "Best Sketch Comedy" and "Best Writing" at the 2012 LA Comedy Festival.
Chloe Sevigny's Fanny Pack (Image) Two kindred weirdos have issues. Get ready... they're gonna talk this shit out.
Clam Bake (Image) Clam Bake is made up of two girls that you wouldn't bring home to mom. Heck, most boys hesitate to bring them home at all. Regardless of any criticism (mostly by their parents) they continue to put on stage what they find funny. With their edgy and controversial sense of humor it doesn't matter if you leave their show laughing or offended, they consider it a job well done.
Cookies & Cream (Image) Nnamdi and Ben bring a mixture of 25% grounded character work 50% ridiculousness 35% fun and 15% math to a new two person sketch show.
Cowboy Villain (Image) Cowboy Villain isn't challenging, satirical comedy about real life issues and relationships. It's nonsense about pirates, aliens, classical literature, and Macy Gray. If you've ever wondered what the characters of Oscar Wilde would say about the internet or how a James Bond mission would play in Chicago...then you should write for us.
CRASSUS (Image) Though not nearly as vicious as their malevolent, greedy, violently beheaded Ancient Roman namesake, sketch comedy power duo CRASSUS still plans to ravish you with laughter, hopefully while amassing great wealth but avoiding their own messy decapitations. You know: comedy.
Creepy Hug (Image) Just as the Beatles achieved worldwide renown for telling dick jokes on The Ed Sullivan Show, Creepy Hug also began as a comedy group. And now they want to sing you their hits. Since 2005 they have amassed several original songs, the highlights of which will be performed for your aural pleasure.
Dark Humour Productions (Image) In WHY THE LONG FACEBOOK, Dark Humour Productions explores this optimistic & narcissistic virtual world. Why is bullying, sexism, reality TV, and the pursuit of the American Dream no longer discussed face to face, but on Facebook? Whether we're helping ghosts meet girls, allowing creationism into the classroom, or teaching children that books are not simply tossed aside first generation iPads, Dark Humour Productions finds the funny in desperate times, and then filters it through happy glitter before posting it as our status update
Delirious Confetti (Image) Delirious Confetti allows their imaginations to run wild with a tale of a show and tell gone wrong. Join them as they are forced to deal with the things we all have to deal with..... Relationships, our first kiss, study abroad, time travel, World War II... You know, the usual stuff. Be shocked, excited, bemused and amused, and let your dark side laugh for once. Complete with musical numbers, you'll be left saying "Oh Boy..."
Department Of Homeland Obscurity (Image) The Department of Homeland Security (D.O.H.O) is made up of 4 extremely talented and attractive boys from Elmhurst Illinois.Together, they hope to bring everyone closer with their inspiring sketches and funny jokes. Just kidding! They're here to make you laugh! Or Cry (out of joy).
Desperation, A Celebration (Image) No one loves you, no one understands you, and this train is headed to Evanston. Desperation, A Celebration brings you light humor from dark places.
Dishbelly (Image) Dishbelly's shows are loud, fast, and outrageous! Bringing you songs and scenes of lives you're not used to seeing, Dishbelly has a biting tongue and a sharp satire.
Double Blind Date (Image) Stepping into the unknown, Double Blind Date takes relationships and encounters, dresses them up, takes them out for a nice dinner, and promises to call them again. Smart and silly, heart warming and grabby, Double Blind Date explores the ins and outs of modern life and why it's so wonderful to take a chance on something or someone. It's hard to meet people, but Double Blind Date can't wait to meet you.
Drew's Tumbler (Image) Drew’s Tumbler performs sketches that celebrate the absurd, mock musical theater and often end in violent death. The performers call on their backgrounds as both improvisers and musical theater performers to weave together characters, choreography, and verbal abuse. If that isn’t enough for you, they also perform a sketch that involves rollerskate dancing.
Drop The Root Beer And Run (Image) Seattle's darkly whimsical sketch comedy troupe Drop The Root Beer And Run has been all around Washington and the American west performing it's fast paced and surreal sketch show that's as loud as it is silly and as stupid as it is well-rehearsed.
Drunk Monkeys (Image) Jen Ellison and Erica Reid like to drink weird things and tell you about them. What started with a simple fascination with Disaronno has turned into a fun (and educational) web series and stage show. They aren't afraid to try anything...ok, maybe sometimes they are a little afraid.
EVIL (Image) EVIL is a two person sketch show that turns a whacky absurdist lens on the things people don't like to talk about. EVIL is about frontier lawyers, seven foot tall ladies, and men named Gary. EVIL is Russian roulette with nine shots. EVIL is, whether you like it or not.
Exquisite Corpse (Image) Exquisite Corpse is pure, uncut sketch. Produced in Chicago, the group has performed two seasons of eleven original sketch shows. Come winter 2013, they enter their third season. Performing at Stage 773, iO, Chicago Sketchfest, they were recommended by AV Club and Chicago magazine. They also make award-winning videos. Taste it. claymoreproductions.com
Fancy Woman (Image) Born of iO's writing program, Fancy Woman spent 2012 writing and performing "The Written Show" at iO's Del Close Theater. Their material runs the gamut from dick jokes to politically-themed dick jokes. Each group member has a hand towel with Fancy Woman embroidered on it.
Feminine Gentlemen (Image) Mr. Liz McArthur and Mr. Jill Valentine are shining their shoes, waxing their mustaches and putting a sock where it should be for the world premier of Feminine Gentlemen. Why not buy them a drink and expect nothing. They'll take a Vodka & Diet Coke.
Flying Kittens (Image) While real life has its challenges, it's important to remember that even fantasies have their flaws. Superheroes with insecurities, bed time stories gone wrong, and a first date mistaken for a terrorist plot are a few of the many things Flying Kittens will show you in their unique sketch revue "2 Scoops of Reality."
For Science! (Image) For Science! would be incredibly boring in the dark. Intensely visual and physical, For Science focuses on using the stage as an imagined space larger, more complex and fantastic than any real location. Absent of talking heads and situational comedy, the group focuses on exploding simple concepts or games into full world-views and pushing them to absurdity.
FUCT (Image) FUCT is the most outrageous comedy troupe in the Universe. With exception of d;lkfgjsd; from NCG 17-456. They are pretty rad.
GayCo Productions (Image) GayCo Productions is celebrating it's 17th year of being the premiere LGBT sketch comedy group in the Windy City. GayCo creates intelligent and thought-provoking sketch comedy based on gay and lesbian themes that will either entertain, educate, and/or laugh your g-string off. GayCo is proud to have been a part of SketchFest since the beginning and plans on making it's 11th appearance it's best yet!
Generation Sext (Image) A sketch show about this generations point of view on the simple things in life. Love, life, and technology. A sketch comedy show about how much dumber we are than our smartphones.
Gretchen and Regina (Image) Gretchen and Regina
GUNNER (Image) GUNNER is Julie Marchiano and Carley Moseley. Focusing on character and relationship driven plots, we work to produce material that is both relatable and satirical, while striving to write what is smart and silly (for the sake of both). We've been told we pack a punch.
Half Way Certain - Cupid Class Songwriting Showcase (Image) Halfway Certain is a musical sketch revue written and performed by the Cupid Master class. These 12 students met once a week for 10 weeks to write and develop songs under the direction of Brian Posen, Ranjit Souri, and Jill Valentine and musically accompanied by Sam Lewis and Ryan Brewster.
Happily Ever Laughter (HEL) (Image) "Happily Ever Laughter or HEL, is a sketch comedy group from Vassar College. Composed of Freshmen through Seniors, HEL dabbles in the quirky and hilarious. Using our liberal arts education, we perform a wide variety of satire and commentary--because seriously, what else are we going to do?"
Heavy Flo (Image) We are HEAVY FLO, an all female sketch comedy group from Chicago! We are loud, proud, and pretty.
Heavyweight (Image) HEAVYWEIGHT is a comedic sketch organization including Brady Novak, T.J. Miller, Mark Raterman, Brady Novak, Nick Vatterott and Brady Novak. Brady Novak has been in several episodes of NBC's perennial show 'Community with Chevy Chase'. Chevy Chase was an actor in the feature film 'Fletch' which is a movie based on a series of novels by Gregory McDonald.
Hey Ladies (Image) Tri-State County Fair is a rip roarin’, mudslinging, cream filled, and deep fried musical hullabaloo. This musical sketch revue is inspired by the trashy, but true experiences of the southern gals of Hey Ladies. From the big haired and God fearing to the grace & charm of the southern belle, we'll go from county to county meeting pageant girls, trailer trash, Bible Thumpers, and every Paula Dean in between.
Hey Pearl (Image) Andi and Tyler are two girls with boys' names who write and perform sketches, solo pieces, song, and dance. An unlikely pair (Andi was Bar Mitzvahed; Tyler is from Texas), these two ragtag dreamers bonded over mutual pasts in high school musical theatre and mutual presents like eating dinner in bed. They like to start with intriguing, awkward, or sometimes absolutely terrifying characters and social interactions, and build their scene work from there.
Hi Betty! (Image) A group of really funny ladies, who capture the insanity of the female mind! Letting it all hang out over their belts and telling it how it really is, showing that there is more of them to love than just their witty senses of humor. Making the everyday trials in life hilarious!!!
Honorary Degree (Image) The members of Honorary Degree have been writing and performing sketch comedy shows together for the last 7 years, including appearances at New York Sketchfest, DC Comedy Fest, San Francisco Sketchfest, and Chicago Sketchfest 2010-2012. Invite all of your friends named Jenn.
I'm Different, Not Dumb (Image) In her One-Woman show "I'm Different, Not Dumb" Ali Clayton uses stand-up, video, and sketch characters to recount the difficulties she faced growing up with learning disabilitys, her short stent in rehab (13 months), and having a real "hot mess" of a family. Born and raised in NC Ali finds plenty of time to make fun of her southern drawl and fancy redneck upbringing. Ali's been featured in TBS Just For Laughs Chicago for the past three years and was honored to be a top ten finalist in NBC's Stand-Up for Diversity contest in NY this past September.
Immaculate Reception (Image) "Immaculate Reception" combines America's two favorite past-times: Television and sitting. This sketch show is the product of a Second City Training Center writing class paired with an awesome all-star cast. Pry yourself out of your couch cushions and away from that Netflix, because we have cowboys, vikings, even a time-traveling Kanye!
Inside Joke Films (Image) Inside Joke Films is the young, curly-haired combo of Jonathan Braylock and Ramy Youssef. The African/Arab American duo combines clever humor, physical comedy, and the occasional rap song to create a high-energy show that is uniquely their own. Check out their online sketches at insidejokefilms.com!
Jeremy (Image) The product of miscommunication and mistaken identity, Jeremy produces original material that is satirical and silly, for the sake of both. We like jokes, games, sports, and games.
Jessica (Image) Jessica is four people exploring the tiny connections made from scene to scene, second to second. Schooled in Theatre, Dance, Film, Communications, Economics, Electrical Engineering and Public Policy, Jessica experiments with variations in pace, rhythm and tempo and attempts to connect with the audience through rich characters, patient scene work and an acute sense of play, leading to shows that are engaging and, above all else, fun.
Just Bust A Move (Image) Lizzy, Michelina, and Kirsten are back in this energetic tribute to the crazy moments in everyone's lives. This fast-paced show will leave you laughing in the aisles, and pondering your own insane experiences. Join Just Bust a Move as they dance their way through competition, embarrassment, and misunderstandings.
Just the Tip (Image) Just the Tip (Jessica Antes, Meg Grunewald, Julia Lippert, & Bess McGeorge), brings hilarious and crowd pleasing characters, situations, song, and dance based on their unique experiences and satirical point of view. These ladies have been seen in The Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival, The Big Little Comedy Festival (Grand Rapids, MI), The Pink Line Comedy Festival in Chicago, and the Women in Comedy Festival in Boston. With training from The Second City, iO Chicago, and The Annoyance Theatre under their belts, you're sure to experience comedy delivered to you hard and fast. Just the Tip is sure to bring you pleasure.
Kerpatty (Image) Finally, Kerpatty will do what it does best by making the time to answer all of the philosophical and metaphysical questions that have been rolling around in your brains. This show will be not only exceptionally informative but amazingly boring. Also, if you believe any of this, you are in the wrong place.
LAFORCE & WHITAKER (Image) Short Comings: And Other Stories Of a Life Half Spent
Short Comings is written and performed by Rachel LaForce and Casey Whitaker. LaForce & Whitaker have been performing together for over three years. They are best friends. Writing partners. And both have a crush on the same guy. Short Comings consists of two person scenes, solo performances, and songs. Short Comings is directed by Scott Goldstein.
Les Emotions (Image) Les Emotions is a french inspired cabaret style sketch show featuring song, solo pieces, and two person sketch. Written and performed by Sarah Shook and Punam Patel, it explores relationships between women and pushes the boundaries of emotional highs and lows.
Listen, Kid! (Image) Long for the days of Seattle grunge, Trapper Keepers, and fannypacks? Struggling to play your audiobooks on your walkman? Everyone's favorite all-American comedy team, Listen, Kid!, has delved into the dopest, dumbest decade and proven why just the mere mention of Arsenio brings a smile to the corner of your lips. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the Tim Allen jokes. Can you say Euuugggh?
Lola Balatro (Image) Post-grunge acoustic rockstars Lola Balatro defy labels, but be certain that their lyrical imagery skillfully melds the profundity of a poet laureate with the libido of a longshoreman. These enigmatic troubadours marry street-wise arrangements from the school of hard licks with textbook popology to generate a sonic fury that should inspire all regurgitating emo-core wannabes to recalculate their paint-by-the-numbers McRock.
Man vs. Self (Image) Man vs. Self is a one man show featuring one man, Tim Stoltenberg. A sketch show with lots of original characters, physical bits, and some improv all blended together in Tim's own unique comedic style.
Matt Griffo (Image) Justin Time (the sad clown) tries desperately to steal the show from musical comedian Matt Griffo and his cohort drummer Kevin. As you hear hilarious original songs, Justin will try using clown tactics and cabbage to win over the hilarious musical stylings of the comedy band.
Mick & Weege Hit the Movies! (Image) Chris Blake and Sherra Lasley are Mick and Weege. These two film loving best friends go on a journey to see their favorite movie but are stopped along the way as numerous characters attempt to inhibit their fun. The cartoon pair (an Irish super hero and a Norwegian domestic goddess) jump through hopps in an attempt to get the favorite mid theater seats, a large buttered popcorn, and a large cherry cola all without being late!
Missing Earl (Image) Missing Earl uses everyday objects, like trash can lids and cardboard for breakdancing to create a sonic landscape and visual cornucopia that’s pure, “stomp”-ing fun. In real life, they perform sketch comedy about unstoppably horny dads, tiger thieves and everyday Bruce Springsteens, using tools like raps and jokes. Fiercely unique, occasionally dark, and unabashedly stupid, Missing Earl will make you laugh, ponder your existence and empathize with America’s lost police officers and office workers.
Mocktail (Image) Mocktail pushes the very boundaries of comedy through its fresh look at everyday life and human emotion. Mocktail seeks to answer important questions that plague us all, like: "What's the meaning of life?", "Is there a god?", and "Who just farted?" These fresh young comedians know what's happenin'.
Mrs. (Image) Sandwich artists by day and joke makers by night, these four ladies found each other somehow in this cruel cruel world. Though many have tried to tear them apart, their mutual love for unicorns, Harry Potter, and gambling has held them together. Come see them hit a home run...once every 15 shows.
Nashville. The Band (Image) Comedy-rock band Nashville is about three things: Rock 'n Roll, America, and Equality. Band members Chester A. Hardwick, Maximillion Barfield, and Billy Piccadilly will take you on a comedic and musical journey through the challenges of being an analog band in a digital world. Accompanying them will be Dale "Blast 'Em" Hammershaw, the hardest-working roadie in show business.
No Offense (Image) Vassar College's oldest sketch comedy group, No Offense, will be performing a range of material including sketches, videos, and musical numbers featuring Judy Garland and Ken Burns. Our group is over 30 years old, and so are our jokes!
Nose Complaint (Image) Nose Complaint is 4 years old and we're officially Grown Ups.Yep, that's right. A-dults. We both have real jobs, own real art, and one of us has a real girlfriend. That's a 50% dating average. When you round up in grown-up land it's100%. Yeah, math is for adults too idiot! Come see Nose Complaint and we'll help improve your Grown Up-iness.
Off Off Broadzway (Image) Off Off Broadzway is Chicago’s premier all lady burlesque parody troupe. The Broadz are back with bigger tutus, fouler mouths and larger than life characters. Come and get your fill of singing, dancing and anything goes humor. These chicks were Voted Best Audience Hecklers by the Chicago Reader.
Oh Theodora (Image) Oh Theodora performs silly, story-driven sketches that take what you know about comedy and twist it. They celebrate the absurd, shun the traditional, and have one simple goal: To put on the most fun show you have ever seen.
One Ton Two Headed Teen (Image) Chicago comedians and performance artists Dean Evans and Jay Torrence create a highly physical, interactive, sketch comedy show that pulls from their multidisciplinary performance backgrounds in Neo-futurism, Clown, Mime, and Improv. Using their bodies to transform space and to portray many different characters, Torrence and Evans paint a colorful portrait of the world as they see it. From mermaid-no-face girl to the eccentric director of every 80's sitcom, these characters will emotionally blackmail you into seeing the unique perspective of two theatrical outsiders looking in.
Parpan & McCormick: Attorneys at Guffaw (Image) Danni Parpan and Molly McCormick are ballsy, abrasive, and downright hilaricle. If you like boring things, dry sandwiches, or paper cuts between your fingers, this show is not for you. If you like most other things like seeing people trip in public, people who are funny, a good camel toe, or laughing you will enjoy this show.
Paul Thomas: Comedogenic (Image) Your standard wanna-be racist, mentally challenged actor, and out-of-touch pedophile type characters are offered in this wickedly run-of-the-mill solo sketch show by Paul Thomas.
Peter n' Chris (Image) Canadian Comedy Award nominated Sketch group Peter n' Chris return to perform their inventive and physical comedy, in their newest show "Peter n' Chris Explore their Bodies". A send up of Narnia and Lord of the Rings, this sketch comedy play has won Just For Laughs- Best Comedy at the Montreal Fringe, and earned Pick of the Fringe at the Vancouver International Fringe Festival. Don't miss what critics are calling "...possibly the funniest thing I have ever seen..." (Uptown Magazine, Winnipeg)
Phat Beethoven (Image) Four guys - one energetic, bit heavy, dumb show. We promise you'll get it. If you don't, you're an idiot.
Play On's Code Red Vines (Image) Code Red Vines is Play On's kids comedy team featuring young writer/actors ages 8-13. The team has been together for four years, and performs regularly at The Book Market in Glenview. They are coached by Second City faculty and Play On founder/director, Lisa Bany-Winters, author of ON STAGE: THEATER GAMES & ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS, and by Second City Alumn and actor Jack Farrell. This year's sketches include "Deadkinz," a commercial for some very disturbing stuffed animals, and "Bungling Burglars," a slapstick musical scene about some less-than-intelligent criminals.
Pretty/Windy Theatre Company (Image) After performing to a packed house in last year’s Sketchfest, Pretty/Windy has a new revue of their best sketches and songs from their recent, hard-rockin’ year. With puppets, puns, dancing, singing, and piano-playing, Pretty/Windy will wow and woo you with their signature literate wit and unique brand of variety comedy.
ProDunKtiOn (Image) Hi! Thank you for joining us and welcome to FEMALE HELL. Travel with us as we explore all of the hilarious and terrifying issues that ladies experience, from first date disasters to masturbating in your sleep. With experiences from Daytona Beach, D.C., San Jose, Ohio, and New York, ProDunkTion will take you on a whirlwind adventure to the deeper, darker crevices of the female psyche through sketches, songs, and viscous hilarity.
Quixotic (Image) Quixotic is a gay themed sketch comedy company with a multi-orientation perspective. True to our namesake, our quixotical take on comedy is impractically romantic, often silly, and always eccentrically unpredictable. Playing mostly for bar crowds, Quixotic has perfected the ability to grab the audiences’ attention through well-crafted low brow, while driving home our strongly relevant themes through smart sexy comedy.
Rabbit Rabbit (Image) "Highly energetic and darkly subversive", Rabbit Rabbit returns to Sketchfest for a fourth year. Recommended by The Chicago Reader and called 'the best thing we've seen all weekend' by two Canadian guys at last year's Sketchfest, Chris and Andrew delight in twisting traditional comedic tropes into surprising and innovative shapes.
Ray Bradgary (Image) Ray Bradgary is a dark, fast-paced revue starring Brad Einstein and Gary Pascal, two Chicago improv and sketch comedy veterans. The show deconstructs a deeply flawed world, driving the audience to consider the impact of their life on the world around them, and their role in society as a whole. Just kidding. It's a bunch of dick jokes.
Reformed Whores (Image) What do you get when you combine an accordion, a ukulele, and two southern belles who've washed away their sins but forgot to rinse out their mouths? The musical/comedy duo Reformed Whores, of course! Fronted by Marie Cecile Anderson and Katy Frame, these lovely ladies sing about everything from venereal diseases to drunk dialing with sweet harmonies and old-timey flair. Watch them struggle to clean up their act at this knee slapping, toe tapping, hoedown.
Robot vs. Dinosaur (Image) Robot vs. Dinosaur revisits last summer’s horror-themed sketch comedy show, Wait, Wait . . . Don’t Kill Me! Our Vincent Price-type host, Uncle Trevor, takes you on a haunted house tour of those things that go bump in the night: witches, ghosts, and West Coast rappers. It will rejuvenate your love for live theater--or should we say… DEAD theater?
Sad On Vacation (Image) Sad On Vacation returns from Los Angeles to their hometown of Chicago to present Butt University—a sketch show comprised of their best material since moving out West two years ago. Let's party.
Salsation Theatre Company, NFP (Image) Daylabor Dreamin’ is a sketch comedy show exploring the current wave of minority empowerment culminating from being once thought of being a small player in popular culture to now being a force to be reckoned with. Salsation ponders the universal theme through the prism of the Latino experience.
S-Cubed; (York Sketch Comedy Club) (Image) stands for Super Sketch Suburbanites, and that is exactly what this group of talented York High School students is all about. Many of its members have performed at the Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival since 2006, the Teen Comedy Festival and at other youth performance venues. Come play with us.
Scuzznick Productions (Image) The founding members of Scuzznick Productions (Sean Conway, George Miller, Michelle Pestlin, Richie White, Sarah Wurz) have been writing and performing sketch comedy in Chicago since 2009. 2012 Sketchubator attendees may remember our business meeting scene that resulted in each cast member pounding 4 PBR tall boys and a Four Loco chaser. Our 2013 Sketchfest show continues the theme of Overconsumption.
Shakespeare's Female Women (Image) Shakespeare’s Female Women is an absurd romp that delves into the feminine mystique of the Bard. Ever Mainard and Alicia Queen will perform all of Shakespeare’s women in this offbeat performance with a sketch comedy feel. By juxtaposing modern trends and viewpoints with the classical nature of the Bard, Shakespeare’s women will come to life in this era of technology, advertisement, and general nonsense.
Shock T's (Image) The best part of a rock show meets the best part of a comedy show: The Shock T's are a three-person comedy band bursting with high-energy songs. With strong vocals and clever lyrics, audiences are always drawn in by the power of three voices and one guitar.
Side Effects (Image) Born in Boulder, CO and relocated to Chicago, Side Effects is an eclectic mix of crazy characters and strange situations. They produce scenes set in the real world with absurdism seeping through the cracks that are both engaging and entertaining. Relatively new to the festival scene, Side Effects just finished a performance with the 2012 New York City Sketch Festival through the Peoples Improv Theater.
Snack Boys (Image) Recently expelled from a top notch boarding school for "having 2 much swagggg", the Snack Boys are Mike Migdall and Adam Levin. Ha HA!
Snooty Pageant (Image) Snooty Pageant is written and performed by Katie Dufresne and Stacey Smith (the ladies of Brouhaha). The two tackle themes such as love, war, poverty, and politics through a woman’s eyes as if she were drugged and/or desperate. Utilizing music, puppetry, clowning, costumes, make up, great hair, rapping, bad hair, food, dancing, noises, instruments and, if allowed, extreme pyrotechnics. Please note: No pyrotechnics will actually be used. But bad hair definitely will be.
Soul Fools (Image) Soul Fools in The Real Fools of Cook County--What would happen if WalMart took over the world? How about if the Amazing Race contestants ran into the Survivor contestants? Soul Fools put their twist on everything pop culture in their new show The Real Fools of Cook County.
Sparkle Hour! (Image) Find your inner sparkle, and live EPIC! This hour-long musical extravaganza voyages into the life of Chicago performer Philip Markle on his quest to become...Philip Sparkle! Journey with him as he encounters Wizard children, homosexuals galore, a mysterious Lady out to get her revenge, and possibly...the meaning of life.* If you've been wondering, "Where has all the whimsy gone?" then come and...Sparkle, Bitch! *Note: Only if the meaning of life includes unicorns and butterflies.
Stir Friday Night (Image) This Asian American Life, we’re Stir Friday Night. Each year in our show we choose a theme, and bring you a variety of sketches on that theme. This year: this Asian American life. Being Asian, in America. And what it means to laugh.
Stitched (Image) Three solo shows are stitched together. Erin Johnson, Jack Farrell and Wolfgang Stein bring characters with a dark side to life. Scenes, from one-person to all three actors, will leave you in "stitches".
Stupid Time Machine (Image) From the ragged coast of New Orleans, comes Stupid Time Machine – a scrappy irreverent group whose members have been hailed by nytheater.com as “individually hilarious and a collective force to be reckoned with.” They are also founders of The New Movement (comedy theaters in Austin and New Orleans). Recommended by the Wall Street Journal as a must-see group, Stupid Time Machine gets 90% of their sketch ideas by sneaking into the dreams of children.
Super Kudzu (Image) Super Kudzu came to chew bubblegum and make smart dumb cerebral silly sketch comedy, and they're all out of bubblegum. Formed in Los Angeles, Super Kudzu is one of the first two house sketch teams to be officially based out of the iO West theater in Hollywood. As a team, Super Kudzu has been invited to perform at the 2012 Los Angeles Improv Comedy Festival, 2012 Seattle Sketchfest, and the Laugh Factory's first ever (and, um, last ever) sketch showcase.
Sweet Tired Kitten (Image) Sweet Tired Kitten presents: Slightly-Off. Kelly and Mary Catherine are two co-dependent best friends and roommates who just can't find a way to live life without each other. This show chronicles the obstacles and successes in their own "slightly-off" relationship, as well as the "slightly-off" world around them. These quotation marks are used loosely, as this show is inspired by actual events.
Tandem (Image) Two lovely ladies who use new ways to deliver sketch comedy. Entertaining the audience with humor and putting an artistic spin to it. Wanting to leave the audience with a little more to remember.
Technology Pun (Image) As part of David Knoell's graduation from The Second City Directing Program, he had to cast, direct and present a 6-week run of a completely original one-act comedy revue, written by the performers he cast. Creating material through improvisation as well as written pitches, the cast enjoyed the collaborative process so much that they decided to remain an ensemble after the conclusion of the showcase. What you are about to see is the culmination of their second creative process together.
The Alliance Sketch Group (Image) Threat Level Rainbow, a new Alliance sketch musical. Looking at Hollywood, relationships, and everyday life with their unique blend of straight and gay. The Alliance takes on everything a little differently.
The Assemblers (pH Productions) (Image) The Assemblers is a sketch comedy show that explores all aspects of the modern day superhero and his (ahem…or her!) universe. What type of insecurities, neuroses, and down right absurdities cause a person to dress like a freak and violently keep crime at bay? What happens in the often-unexplored corners of a comic book world? From counseling for caped crusaders to illicit use of paraphernalia, this show will have everyone who’s ever had a hero laughing in their seats. Marvel as pH gives the comic book genre the dose of kryptonite it deserves.
The Backrow (Image) Soaring Defeats, the Backrow's twelfth consecutive show at the Sketch Festival, is all about those moments when you completely lose and yet feel fantastic. When you're crushed and elated at the same time. Come watch these deathless sketch vets languish and thrive in their favorite feeling ever!
The Business (Image) The Business is a sketch comedy group that has previously performed at the Playground Theater, the Upstairs Gallery, CIC Theater, Studio BE, the 2012 Milwaukee Comedy Fest, the 2012 Abbie Fest in Chicago, and the 2012 Chicago SketchFest where their scenes were “inspired, absurd and exhibited remarkable fearlessness and comic prowess” as described by TimeOut Chicago.
The Comic Thread (Image) BEST GROUP, 2011 LA Comedy Fest, AUDIENCE CHOICE, 2012 Chicago Fringe Fest, RUNNER UP, 2012 Shadowbox Sketch Comedy Fest. TCT was recently described as "surrealistic comedy [that bends] the edges of logic in any particular direction with enough grace that you truly don't know what's coming next. And you really don't care because there's a 90% chance that it'll be exceptionally funny" (Express Milwaukee). We couldn't have put it better ourselves! TCT prides itself on unique and interesting characters, has fun with lots of costumes and sound effects, and regularly ventures into ridiculous territory without a hall pass.
The Cupid Players (Image) Musical sketch comedy. Voted Best Sketch Comedy Group in Chicago – By the Chicago Reader. "Must See"-Time Out, "A rarity in sketch Comedy"-Windy City "The work is far better than some far more expensive relationship-musicals in town. Cupid is full of wit & zest." - Chicago Tribune, "Sharply Original...will make you laugh"- New City “Cupid brings sketch comedy to a level that transcends scat humor and predictability." - Chicago Arts & Entertainment
The Dancing Pig (Image) Since 2009, The Dancing Pig has been writing and performing sketches from the point of view of four average albeit mentally unstable white guys. No topic is off the table, from everyday situations to pirate mutiny and sex robots. Sit back, relax, and let The Dancing Pig's comedy make you feel like a better, smarter person. It will happen. We Promise.
The Dirty Shame (Image) The Dirty Shame comprises brothers Lee and Matt Barats who make full use of their chemistry, combining sharp and often physical scenes with solo characters to create a world that balances the grounded and absurd in smart ways. Their show has been described as “intelligently mischievous,” which sounds pretty cool.
The Good and Crazy (Image) Comedy is uncomfortable. Comedy is everywhere. Comedy is the constant voyeur watching us and sneaking up to remind us what we all think and never say.
The Interns (Image) Gretchen Eng, Danny Galvin, and Andi Sharavsky have been writing and performing together for the past four years as part of Vassar College's oldest and wisest sketch comedy group. Now, they've put together a show about what happens when you graduate college with an arts degree. We wanted to call it a show about nothing, but apparently that tagline's taken.
The Kitchenettes (Image) The Kitchenenttes are a musical improv and sketch team based in Chicago IL. When not performing their Youtube hit "Scenes from a Kitchen," they perform regularly in bars and on stages around the city. Armed with a guitar and their wits, they ask you to join them In This World.
The Late Live Show (Image) The Late Live Show takes the classic late-night talk show experiences and presents it for a live theater audience. You can expect off-beat jokes, an interview with a special guest, as well as sharply-written characters and sketches. With critics calling it "surprisingly deft" and "eccentrically dark," The Late Live Show is one show you don't want to miss!
The Mutiny (Image) The Mutiny is a handpicked sketch team at iO West amassed from the Los Angeles sketch comedy scene. Their show fully explores weird ideas and deeply commits to them -- especially the dumb ones. Pledge your loyalty and prepare to die.
The Nerdologues (Image) The Nerdologues is a comedy show that explores nerd culture through hilarious sketches and personal stories. They have performed at San Fran Sketchfest, Chicago Sketchfest, C2E2, and the New York City Comic Con. They ask questions, like: "Why don't the doors on the Death Star fail open?" nerdologues.com @nerdologues
The Nightstalkers (Image) The Nightstalker is the obstacle in life that forces you in a new direction you were not prepared for. This show is a reflection on how you got to where you are, and where you go afterwards. Will you let the Nightstalker win, or will you overcome and become the master of your own life.
The Pop Tarts (Image) Straight from the "United Kingdom" to your hearts, we bring to you, international pop sensation, THE POP TARTS! Evelyn and Beatrice will blow your minds and rock your bodies with their classic hits, including "Can't Take Me Anywhere" and "Cowboy Fantasy" from their newly released album, Don't Burn Your Tongue. This musical comedy duo has been touring Chicago for a full year - come see what all the fuss is about!
The Puterbaugh Sisters (Image) Tiffany and Danielle Puterbaugh are brining comedy duos back or at least to the back of every dive bar. There the only comedy duo where there is no straight man on or off stage. They run a critically acclaimed variety show Entertaining Julia at Town Hall Pub every Sunday at 9. Catch there reality show Garage Sale Sisters Got Talent.
The Sean Miller Explosion (Image) The Sean Miller Explosion returns for its improbable EIGHTH straight year at Chicago Sketchfest! Watch as a happy-go-lucky sketch comedy group is suddenly thrust into situations that some would find humorous! Can they band together, defeat their rivals and make with the jokes in only 40 minutes? We'll see...maybe? Come find out!
The Stuntmen (Image) The Stuntmen are back - and this time, it's personal. It's our third year at Sketchfest, and it's going to be our silliest, deadliest, most action-packed show yet. Stuntmen are go!
The Templeton Philharmonic (Image) Toronto actors Gwynne Phillips and Briana Templeton perform delectably surreal sketch comedy. Their vignettes are often peppered with hideous Edwardian dresses, stinging social satire, and deadpan interpretive dance. They were recently awarded "Best Comedy Duo" at the L.A. Comedy Festival.
the tim&micah project (Image) dear chris, they're back! finally, the tim&micah project have a new show. i got a chance to see it early and was once again transported to an alternate reality that tim&micah created for me. their show made me think and feel things days and weeks after i saw it. don't miss it!
The Xanadudes (Image) The Xanadudes are not just a sketch team. They are not just a band. They are a sketch team that exploits the talents of a band. The Xanadudes blend character driven and at times satirical sketch with live musical comedy that spans many genres. Some would call The Xanadudes low brow. But on the plus side almost nobody considers them high brow.
There's an App for That (Image)Throughout human history, we've been waiting for something that will put all human wisdom at our fingertips. Also we can avoid our stupid mistakes, like getting into wars, destroying the planet, sending idiots to Washington, and accidentally saying things, in the heat of the moment, in our relationships, that can never be taken back. However, we're running into a few unexpected consequences.
Think Tank (Image) Remember the days when you could just throw on some Phil Collins and forget about the world? Who even knows where Phil Collins is anymore? Man, the world has gotten weird.
Thorpedo (Image) Thorpedo delivers a shot of honesty enveloped in character-driven social satire that makes you think while spitting beer from your nose. You will be at the edge of your seat as traditional scenework teams up with audience interaction, blackouts and metaphysical pieces that shine a light on the human experience. Get ready to stand up, speak out, and laugh hard.
Thunderstood (Image) Sharp writing, un-choreographed and untrained dancing, fascination with how technology influences communication, obscure comic book references, and balls-to-the-wall willingness to look like an ass, Thunderstood is a multimedia experience that examines the absurdities in life that most people overlook because they aren’t as weird and nerdy as he is.
Two Bunnies Eating Flowers (Image) Two Bunnies Eating Flowers (Alex Hanpeter, Kyle Reinhard, Jude Tedmori) is a three-person sketch comedy group. The Chicago trio, formed out of The Second City, has been featured regularly in several showcases on which they have no business being in. They pledge to lull you in with their puppy dog eyes and then immediately alienate you.
Ugly and Delicious (Image) Raised in the swamps of Seattle, real life couple Nick and Muriel moved to Chicago and thought it would be fun if they got high by eating too much nutmeg. The experiment was a disaster and they learned the hard way that nutmeg is a powerful and terrifying narcotic. Their sketch show "Ragamuffins" celebrates all things experimental and ridiculous.
Uncalled For (Image) Today Is All Your Birthdays is a comedic, philosophical, sci-fi take on birth, death, time travel, Darwin’s theory of evolution, hypnotism, sandwiches and the meaning of life. It is intelligent, theatrical, free-flowing, stream-of-consciousness hilarity that doesn’t bother with vulgarity or cynicism. From the company that PLANK Magazine called “one of the most innovative and reliable sketch troupes in the country.”
Urlakis and Cusick (Image) Last year their self-titled two-man debut, Urlakis & Cusick, was hailed as one of the funniest shows of 2011 by Time Out Chicago, who called it “seriously funny stuff, likably geeky and spot-on in its ridicule.” The Chicago Reader awarded the show “Recommended” status and praised it as “feisty, cerebral sketch comedy.” Come spend a funny/crude/charming/odd/magical evening with two guys you would find more than tolerable in light doses.
Vampeero (Image) Everybody wants to win. In Vampeero's 4th production - Champeero - everybody does. Whether it's the inspiration of an epic comeback, life's little victories, or the exhilaration found in the challenge between man and technology, Champeero shares its triumphs in typical Vampeero style - dark, twisted, musical sketch comedy.
Warm Milk (Image) The performances of Warm Milk are a dark mixture of sketch comedy, grotesque character monologues, and highly-choreographed physical buffoonery. Warm Milk is not afraid to bounce between high-concept, whip-smart comedy and stuff that's so raw and dumb, you'll be kind of embarrassed that you think it's funny.
We're Matt Weir (Image) Moms love proms, dogs fight our wars, and dirtbags lounge around the Vroom Vroom Room in We're Matt Weir's cartoon nightmare version of sketch comedy. Watch Matt B. Weir and Matt J. Weir (the Matt Weirs) get very sweaty and very physical as they bring their stupid world to life. "If We're Matt Weir had a message, it would be that everybody suffers," said someone who once came to the show.
What Would Carol Do? (Image) WHAT WOULD CAROL DO? is written and performed by Katy Colloton and directed by Colleen Murray. The show is a collection of characters inspired by the extraordinary quirks that make us ordinary. From Hot Mess Holly, who laughs when people degrade her, to a Christian man who works at a Chinese restaurant; WHAT WOULD CAROL DO? shows that everyone travels a different path but we all end up crazy.
Wig Bullies (Image) Wig Bullies take a irreverent look at the diversity of Twenty-First Century gay life, from homophobic chicken restaurants to workplace sexual confusion.
WILDCARD (Image) Together they are WILDCARD but individually they are; Carmen, Casey, Greg and Rachel. They perform regularly at Second City, The Annoyance, iO, The Playground, and The Upstairs Gallery. This is their second year performing in Chicago SketchFest and they couldn't be more excited! WILDCARD believes that there is always two sides to every story, two hearts to every break up, and more than two choices at this time slot so thank you for being here!
Wishbone Theatre Collective (Image) Your High School Prom - tales of young love, awkward teenage romance and hilarious encounters.
