Just For Laughs Seriously Impresses

By Tankboy in Arts & Entertainment on Jun 13, 2011 6:20PM

The TBS and Just For Laughs comedy festival is still a relatively new annual event, but it continues to grow in scope, helping reaffirm Chicago's place as a world class center of comedy. The full line-up is extensive and impressive but there are a few can't miss acts hitting town.

The Chicago Theatre is hosting most of the heavy hitters heading into town for the festival. At the top of our list is an appearance there Sunday, June 19, by Steve Martin and Martin Short as the "perform" Steve Martin and Martin Short in a Very Stupid Conversation. Another surefire, if oddball, crowd pleasing option at that venue is Demetri Martin's showcase Thursday, June 16, including appearances by Hannibal Buress, Kumail Nanjiani, Kristen Schaal and Paul F. Tompkins. And Friday, June 17, features a showcase of comedians hosted by the star of this writer's absolute favorite sitcom right now, Community's Joel McHale.

We recommend checking any of those shows out, but the great thing about the TBS and Just For Laughs comedy festival is that it also strives to feature up and comers alongside established acts. Scroll through their website and you see shows highlighting the some of the best comedic talent Chicago and the Midwest have to offer. The Gene Siskel Film Center has comedy film shorts running in conjunction with the festival.

It's impossible for us to even touch upon the tip of this comedy iceberg, so head over to the Just For Laughs website for information on every event including how to secure tickets.

The TBS and Just For Laughs comedy festival runs from June 14 through June 19.

Need help navigating the fest while you're on the go? It's easier if you download their mobile app.