In the mood for some laughs? Then check out the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, or more commonly referred to as UCB, in Chelsea. This famous comedy house is New York’s version of Chicago’s Second City. Started by four comics, including Amy Poehler, the UCB Theatre delivers over 25 unique shows a week and it trains up-and-coming comics at all levels through its workshops (my roommate is an alum!).
UCB draws in top-notch comedic writers and actors from the virtually unknown to the very famous. Directors and agents come to scout out the next big thing at UCB, so why shouldn’t you get in on the fun and enjoy these talented performers while you can still afford it? Nearly all of the shows range from free to $10, with no drink minimum, so everyone can afford it!
I’ve seen the ASSSSCATs (Amy Poehler’s improv group) and they’re incredibly funny. While the cast line up is never announced ahead of time, it’s likely that you’ll see familiar faces from VH1’s retired Best Week Ever and NBC’s 30 Rock and Saturday Night Live. When I was there, Amy Poehler was performing, as well as Jack McBrayer, aka Kenneth the Page from 30 Rock. If you want to see this famous group, check them out on Sundays – the 7:30 pm show is typically sold out weeks in advance and will cost you a whopping $10.
Meanwhile, if you want to be uber cheap, as I did one rainy/snowy December night, then wait in line for tickets to the 9:30 pm show (as you would for Rush tickets on Broadway) and it’s free! I’m not sure if saving $10 was worth the hypothermia and sheer misery of standing outside for two hours on a wintery December night, but it certainly made for some memories – including wrapping our feet in plastic bags, covering our bodies in random ponchos purchased at the Gristedes on the corner and buying small bottles of red wine and liquor from the nearby wine shop in order to keep “warm.”
As always, take a look at the schedule ahead of time to make sure these shows are still on; there could be changes to the schedule. But if you’re looking for something different to do or a cool spot to bring a date, then definitely head over to the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. You won’t be disappointed.
