The name “Bughouse” is taken from Chicago’s Bughouse Square, a gathering place for orators, free speech advocates and rabble-rousers of old. Slang for mental institution, “Bughouse” seemed to fit the cast of characters that frequented the square. It is in the spirit of that place that we hope to establish ourselves.
Support Bughouse Theater and our mission of creating space for artists in the Chicago performance community by attending our shows or directly donating to the theater!
BYOB and alcohol policy
We invite all adults over 21 who wish bring and enjoy their own alcoholic beverages while attending Bughouse events to do so responsibly. We understand that groups of audience members may choose to bring and share beverages between each other. However, we do NOT allow producers, performers, audience members or anyone using or attending our space to distribute alcohol in any way, shape, or form.
RESIDENT SHOWS
Forward (In Comfortable Shoes) is a monthly comedy showcase of women, LGBTQIA+, non-binary, and BIPOC performers. The show works to provide an open and welcoming space for the diverse perspectives of these funny and talented people!
Forward (In Comfortable Shoes)
Friday Night Riot
Friday Night Riot is a raucous comedy showcase featuring Chicago’s funniest ensembles and comedians!
The Reome Ring
This assemblage of Chicago's legendary and rising-star improvisers delivers a brand-new cast each month to play with Kevin Reome in a long-form showcase of calculated madness.
The Part Dog Show
The happiest performers in the world give you 45-60 minutes of absolute silliness!
Jimmy & Johhnie
Jimmy Carrane and John Hildreth are joined by a special guest during this once monthly show and put on one of the funniest and most fine tuned improv shows this side of Chicago.
