There’s really no escape from reality television anymore. It’s even invaded Chicago’s thriving improv scene.
The Cornservatory, an offbeat theater in Lincoln Square, has been running an improv competition dubbed the “Original Improv Gladiators” every Tuesday night at 8 p.m.
Self-described as a cross between American Idol, American Gladiators and Whose Line Is It Anyway? – the competition requires teams to think fast (and funny.) Contestants put on a 15-minute performance that’s judged by comedians from other improv companies. Audience response also counts toward the final score (a la American Idol.) The winning team then goes up against the Cornservatory's “Gladiators” for a lightning round.
The winning team gets a month-long run performing at the Cornservatory.
Chicago’s improv scene did help launch the careers of comedic greats like Tina Fey and Steve Carell. So, maybe it’s worth checking out the Gladiators for the next big thing?
The hilarity runs through November 15th.
