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The name “Bughouse” is taken from Chicago’s Bughouse Square, a gathering place for orators, free speech advocates and rabble-rousers of old. Slang for mental institution, “Bughouse” seemed to fit the cast of characters that frequented the square. It is in the spirit of that place that we hope to establish ourselves.


Support Bughouse Theater and our mission of creating space for artists in the Chicago performance community by attending our shows or directly donating to the theater!

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

Improv As Theater: Focus On Stagecraft

We tackle all things stagecraft as related to what you the performer control, that of course being, you. We’ll talk stage directions, parts of the stage, basic vocabulary, and audience awareness. 

with Kevin Sciretta March 23, 12-2pm

Bob Dassie Improv Workshop

We’ll look at the approach taken for different smaller cast forms like WeirDass, Trio, Dasariski and Quartet. We’ll also take a gander at the larger cast forms Close Quarters, Armando, and Harold.

March 16 at 1-4pm at Bughouse Theater

RESIDENT SHOWS

Forward (In Comfortable Shoes) is a monthly comedy showcase of women, LGBTQIA+, non-binary, and BIPOC performers. The show works to provide an open and welcoming space for the diverse perspectives of these funny and talented people!

Forward (In Comfortable Shoes)

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Friday Night Riot

Friday Night Riot is a raucous comedy showcase featuring Chicago’s funniest ensembles and comedians!

The Reome Ring

The Reome Ring

This assemblage of Chicago's legendary and rising-star improvisers delivers a brand-new cast each month to play with Kevin Reome in a long-form showcase of calculated madness.


The Part Dog Show

The happiest performers in the world give you 45-60 minutes of absolute silliness!

Jimmy & Johhnie

Jimmy Carrane and John Hildreth are joined by a special guest during this once monthly show and put on one of the funniest and most fine tuned improv shows this side of Chicago.