What are some comedy clubs in Chicago that allow those starting out to do their stuff?

Question

I've done stand up before but I haven't been up enough to have a press kit or an agent.

Answer 1

you can check out second city or olympic improv and usually they have classes and im sure they can hook you up with some places as well. give them a call or check out their website

Answer 2

Look in magazines and papers like Time Out Chicago or the Readers, etc. for open mike nights at local bars and clubs. Some open mike nights are for specific things (poetry, music, etc.) but others allow ANYTHING, including standup. go up there and try your stuff out. No comedy club owner is just going to let some guy just walk in off the street and take up valuable stage time. Try your stuff out at an open mike first. Bringing a tape recorder might be a good idea. Tape your performance, including the audience reaction and you'll have something to bring to the REAL comedy clubs. Have a friend videotape it if you can. You can be your own agent, but you have to hustle. Bernie Mac started out doing stand up on the subway trains here in Chicago for handouts. He made his own opportunity. You can too.