The Second City

The Second City
source
Name	The Second City
Formation	1959
Founders	Bernard Sahlins, Paul Sills, Howard Alk
Type	Improvisational theatre
Location	Chicago, Illinois

The Second City. It is an improvisational comedy enterprise founded in 1959, originating in the Old Town neighborhood of Chicago. The institution began as a small cabaret theatre and has grown into the most influential and prolific training ground for comedy in North America. Its name was derived from a dismissive term for Chicago in an article by A. J. Liebling in The New Yorker.

History

The organization was co-founded by Bernard Sahlins, Paul Sills, and Howard Alk, building upon the improvisational techniques developed by Viola Spolin. Its first revue, "Excelsior and Other Outcries", opened in December 1959. The early ensembles featured pioneering performers like Alan Arkin, Barbara Harris, and Severn Darden. It quickly became a countercultural hub during the 1960s, with subsequent companies established in Toronto and later Los Angeles. Landmark productions such as "The Committee" and its satirical approach influenced the anti-Vietnam War movement.

Notable alumni

Its alumni constitute a veritable who's who of modern comedy and acting. Early stars included John Belushi, Bill Murray, and Gilda Radner, who became founding members of Saturday Night Live. Subsequent generations featured Chris Farley, Mike Myers, and Tina Fey. The Toronto company launched the careers of John Candy, Eugene Levy, and Catherine O'Hara. Other distinguished graduates include Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Amy Poehler, and Keegan-Michael Key. Many alumni have received major awards like the Emmy Award, Tony Award, and Mark Twain Prize.

Training programs

Its educational wing operates one of the largest improvisational training centers globally. The curriculum is rooted in the Viola Spolin theatre games and emphasizes ensemble work and spontaneous creation. Programs include multi-level courses in improvisation and sketch comedy writing, alongside specialized workshops for corporate clients. The Second City Training Centre in Toronto and Hollywood offers conservatory programs and summer intensives. Many graduates directly enter the touring companies or secure writing positions on shows like The Simpsons.

Influence on comedy

Its impact on the form and business of comedy is immeasurable. It served as the primary talent pipeline for Saturday Night Live since that show's inception in 1975. The improvisational format pioneered there directly inspired the creation of Whose Line Is It Anyway?. Its satirical style shaped numerous television institutions, including SCTV, The Daily Show, and 30 Rock. The emphasis on collaborative, actor-generated material revolutionized sketch comedy and influenced filmmakers like Christopher Guest. Its business model has been replicated by countless regional theatres across North America.

Theatres and venues

The flagship venue remains at 1616 North Wells Street in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood, housing multiple performance spaces. The Toronto operation, located in the Entertainment District, includes several stages and the Second City Training Centre. A permanent resident company also performs at The Venetian in Las Vegas. Touring companies, such as The Second City Touring Company, perform revues worldwide. The archives and administrative offices are housed in the Chicago headquarters.

Category:Improvisational theatre groups Category:Comedy clubs Category:Theatre companies in Chicago