The Second City, the legendary Chicago improv comedy institution that gave us Bill Murray, John Candy, Gilda Radner, John Belushi, Chris Farley, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Jordan Peele, Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Del Close, Tim Meadows, Alan Alda, and many many more, is opening an NYC location at 64 N. 9th between Wythe and Kent in Williamsburg. The “first city” branch — a 12,000 square-foot “entertainment complex” — features two cabaret-style live theaters, seven Training Center classrooms, as well as a restaurant and bar. It’s set to open its doors on November 16.
“There is no better way to kick off our 65th anniversary celebrations than by opening the doors to The Second City New York in Williamsburg, Brooklyn,” says Second City CEO Ed Wells. “As the center of global culture and entertainment, New York represents a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase our world-renowned brand of comedy-based entertainment with an incredible NYC-based cast, and to deliver our proprietary Yes, And… improv-based training. Building upon our storied history and decades of success in Chicago and Toronto, we are thrilled to improvise a whole new adventure with the New York City community.”
Here’s an artist rendering of the facade:
Tickets for performances are on sale now, and you can also enroll in fall classes.
The Second City has also announced its inaugural New York cast, which includes E.J. Cameron, Ashley Leisten, Ben Rameaka, Yazmin Ramos, Drew Reilly, and Jacklyn Uweh. Jen Ellison directs The Second City Mainstage 1 revue. Alan Kliffer will serve as Artistic Director NYC, Jeff Bouthiette as Musical Director, and Kayla Freeman as Stage Manager, with Technical Direction from Kurt Cruz. Matt Prigge will serve as Producer.
Comedy in NYC is looking up. In addition to The Second City, Upright Citizens Brigade will be up and running again after leaving NYC for three years. Now all we need is The Groundlings to open a branch here.