Schaumburg Live Work & Play - January/February 2009 - (Page 33) by mary jekielek insprucker L ike any good hideaway, the Improv Comedy Club is nestled in a back corner, cupped in its own world. It’s a haven of sorts, an escape from reality – if only for a few hours. “It takes my mind off all the problems going on in the country,” said Ray Hernandez, 29, of Palatine. “It’s pretty relaxing after a long work week.” The Improv Comedy Club is located in Woodfield Mall near Texas De Brazil and PF Chang’s. The club opened in 2006 and is part of a national franchise. Tickling your funny bone The night of laughs begins with a walk by the Wall of Fame – framed photos of the “Who’s Who” in comedy. Early show goers can wrangle a full dinner menu. Appetizers rule for the later performance. Jeans seem to be the order of the day, as the spotlight is on comedy. Folks from 18 to 80 enjoy the latest in “a rabbi, a priest and a farmer” fodder from a semi-circular room with 400 seats. Demographics are based on entertainers. A Brett Butler may bring in the older, female crowd, whereas someone like Dane Cook skews younger. The first 10 minutes are occupied by an up-and-comer trying to break into the field. The next 20-minute set is filled by the feature act, usually someone who has been around, but may not have strong name recognition. Saving the best for last, it’s headliner time. The last laugh Perhaps the ultimate appeal of Improv is never knowing what will happen. Although not at the Schaumburg location, Tony Baldino – a partner in 10 Improvs, including the one in Schaumburg – recalls fly-bys from Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock and Jay Mohr, all in one night. Big names or not, things are never all that predictable at the Improv. Katie Hargrave of Elgin became a star for a moment when Saturday Night Live’s Jimmy Fallon pulled her on the Schaumburg stage during a recent performance. “I was a little nervous, but it was hilarious,” said Hargrave. “I’ll never forget it. You could tell he didn’t come for the money; he came to interact with the audience.” That’s what it seems to be about for many comedians. At least it is for comedian Michael Palascak, who acted as MC the night Fallon was in the house. “People come up to me and say they feel better after the show,” said Palascak. “I like doing that for others. People go to a doctor for an illness. They come to comedy for joy.” Why Schaumburg – The punch line Comic Michael Loftus entertains the crowd. photo by mark welsh/ schaumburg magazine “The Schaumburg area has a great mix of office and residential population, and the shopping mall generates a lot of traffic,” said january/february 2009 Page 33
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