UPCOMING SHOWS & EVENTS
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
Stir Friday Night Opens for The Trouble with My Hair
The Trouble With My Hair by Ada Cheng
“Hair is never just hair, it holds our histories, our rebellions, our identities, our desires to belong, and our declarations of independence. This show is about coming home to oneself and learning to love the person underneath it all.” - Ada Cheng
About the Production
The Trouble With My Hair: Coloring, Cutting, and Coming into Who I Am, is an intimate exploration of gender, sexual identity, and boundary-making through Ada’s evolving relationship with her hairstylist and her hair. Blending narrative art and theatrical storytelling, Ada Cheng playfully brings her audience on a journey of self-discovery and self-love through her struggles with hair. From early memories of negotiating belonging to courageous acts of boundary-making in adulthood, Cheng uses her changing hairstyles and haircolors as milestones marking her path toward self-definition. Each cut, color, and conversation becomes a metaphor for reclaiming voice and visibility in a world eager to define her first. This site-responsive Chicago presentation spans five performances across the city, each featuring guest performers and a post-show conversation or response.
Performances (5 total)
Each performance runs approximately 2 hours and includes guest artists and a post-show discussion or response.
Friday, Aug 21 | 7:30–9:30pm
Scissor & Fork
3968 N Elston Ave, Irving ParkSaturday, Aug 22 | 7:30–9:30pm
Visceral Adventure Lounge
3638 W Grand Ave, Humboldt ParkSunday, Aug 23 | 7:30–9:30pm
REM Salon
3035 W Fullerton Ave, Logan SquareSaturday, Aug 29 | 7:30–9:30pm
Haibayô
1132 W Argyle St, UptownSunday, Aug 30 | 1:00–3:30pm
Center on Halsted
3656 N Halsted St, Northalsted
Featuring a performance response by Stir Friday Night, followed by a closing reception until 3:30pm. This final performance will not include a post-show talkback.
Guest Artists
Each performance will feature two guest artists, with a different lineup at every venue. Guest artist announcements coming soon.
Stir Friday Night
Chicago’s longest-running AAPI comedy team, 31 years and counting. With alumni like Steven Yeun (Walking Dead), Danny Pudi (Community), and Mary Sohn (AP Bio), Stir Friday Night is a pillar of the Chicago comedy scene. MSG included. Follow us @stirfridaynight on all social media and www.stirfridaynight.com
Performers: Shashwat Arya, Esther Oh, Robert Kapaku, Kathleen Hansen, Marie Molina, Joyce Mojica, Becca Nix Tham, Tina Mavalankar, and Jonathan Lee-Rey.
Exclusive Food Sponsor
Krung Thep Thai Cuisine is a proud LGBTQ+ family-owned restaurant. Founded by family members born and raised in Chiang Mai, Thailand, we bring the authentic tastes of our hometown straight to Chicago. Everything we serve is crafted entirely in-house using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. We are deeply grateful to our vibrant Lakeview community for letting our family cook for yours for more than a decade. Stop by and celebrate flavor, heritage, and community with us!
Community Partner
Building on over 40 years of LGBTQ+ advocacy to create spaces where every identity is celebrated and every community member can thrive. Center on Halsted advances community and secures the health and well-being of the LGBTQ people of Chicagoland and throughout the Midwest.
History of The Trouble With My Hair: Coloring, Cutting, and Coming into Who I Am
The performance is developed with and directed by Jessica Lynn Johnson, an award-winning director and solo show development expert known for shaping compelling, authentic solo works. “Ada is a brilliant and gifted storyteller. Gentle, perfectly paced and warmly welcoming in her sweetly sarcastic way. The writing is magical. Evocative, sensual and human.” -Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros of NoHo Arts District. Ada has performed The Trouble With My Hair nation-wide, including the Asheville Fringe Art Festival, was an official selection of the Soaring Solo Studios Stars Series 2025, and she continues to have more shows throughout the year in and out of the country.
Writer + Performer Bio
Dr. Ada Cheng is an award-winning storyteller, solo performer, and producer. Committed to amplifying and uplifting marginalized voices, she has created numerous storytelling platforms for BIPOC and LGBTQIA community members to tell difficult and vulnerable stories. She has consistently engaged in public education and public outreach through the use of storytelling and performance arts. Since 2016, she has toured her solo performances Not Quite and Loving Across Borders nationwide, presenting at universities, theaters, and conferences. She premiered her third solo performance, The Trouble with My Hair, in Los Angeles in October 2025 as part of Soaring Solo Studios’ Stars Series. She has been a speaker with the Illinois Humanities Road Scholars Speakers Bureau since 2019. Dr. Cheng was named the 2023–24 Lund-Gill Endowed Chair at Dominican University and was a recipient of the 2024 Public Humanities Award from Illinois Humanities.
Discussion Moderator Bio
Kevin Sparrow (they/them) is a Chicago-based playwright, performer, dramaturg, and the Literary Manager for NWAC. They premiered the pop-punk musical Sofa King Queer in 2024 and the self-help satire Cornerstone in 2018. As Literary Manager, Kevin was dramaturg for the productions Down the Moonlit Path and ThroatPunch, and they produced the 2018 and 2019 editions of the New World Play Festival, which showcased 16 new short plays from local and national playwrights.
Policies
Community / Student / Industry Tickets: To help make this performance accessible while ensuring artists are fairly compensated, a limited number of Community / Student / Industry tickets are available for each performance.
Pay What You Can Tickets: Five Pay What You Can tickets will be available at the door for each performance on a first-come, first-served basis. Availability is limited, so advance ticket purchase is recommended.
Refunds & Exchanges Policy:All ticket sales are final. We are not able to offer refunds. If you are unable to attend, we appreciate your understanding that your ticket purchase directly supports the artists and production.
Exchanges may be requested up to one week prior to the scheduled performance, subject to availability. Within one week of the event date, we are unable to accommodate exchanges.
SFN at AF Fest in Los Angeles!
AF Nation: Coast to Coast Comedy Showcase w/ A++, Deeptanshu Jha, M.S.G. Comedy, Shivaan Nadan, Shoes Off, Stir Friday Night,
AF Nation: Coast to Coast brings together an all-star lineup of AAPI performers flying in from every corner of the country. Don’t miss this unforgettable showcase featuring returning favorites and national headliners—all in one epic comedy show!
Featuring…
Improv: A++ / @apluspluscomedy
A++ is an Asian American improv comedy team based in Baltimore. The seven members first connected during classes at the Baltimore Improv Group and formed the team in 2019. Because the cast shares a similar upbringing, they have an unspoken understanding that lets them turn real stories and cultural experiences into comedy.
Cast
Grant Chang / @grantkchang
Sam Brunner / @samsbrunner
Keith Estrella / @person_0129
Kim Le / @kimleku
Heather Mari / @theheathermari
Jacob Joseph / @f00lish_b0y
Brian Young / @sketcheeguy
Stand-up: DEEPTANSHU JHA / @jhadeeptanshu
Deeptanshu Jha is an Indian immigrant stand-up comedian based in New York City. He has performed at SF Sketchfest and will debut at New York Comedy Fest in September.
Sketch: M.S.G COMEDY / @m.s.g.comedy
M.S.G. Comedy, formerly No MSG Added Comedy, is a comedy collective founded in 2018. Inspired by shows like SNL and MadTV, the collective focuses on connecting community through humor and laughter. Since its founding, M.S.G. Comedy has performed all over California at events that include Coup De Comedy Festival, SF Sketch Fest, The Marsh Studio, and Chance Theater. The team is made up of writers and performers that have stage credits at South Coast Rep, the Second City Mainstage, Long Beach Playhouse, as well as film/tv credits on Jury Duty Presents, Spidey & His Amazing Friends, Last Comic Standing, and PEN15.
Cast
Chris Bunyi / @snapshutter
Adrienne Garcia / @radianceingear
Deva Marie Gregory / @deva_marie
Jhemon Lee, M.D. / @jhemon
Sally Nguyen / @yay.sally
Joy Regullano / @joyregullano
Shinshin Yuder Tsai / @shinnyshinshin
Stand-up: SHIVAAN NADAN / @shivaann
Shivaan Nadan, a stand-up comedian from the Bay Area, with a passion for creating sharp, engaging, and original comedy that connects with diverse audiences. He was recently featured on Variety for his upcoming taping for Hulu. He is a regular at Cobb’s Comedy Club, The Punchline SF, Balboa Theater and recently opened for Hanibal Buress at the Palace of Fine Arts Theater.
Improv: SHOES OFF / @shoesoffimprov
We are Shoes Off, an all-Asian improv team and community based out of NYC! We produce our own bimonthly show at the Magnet Theater for Asian improvisors, and we regularly perform at festivals, including Fun And Dumb (New York), Third Coast Improv Fest (Nashville), and Hartford Improv Fest. Our form is the Lotus, a half-Onion opening into a montage. Our sets are generally fast-paced with quick transitions, and scenes are focused on characters and relationships a la Magnet Theater where we are based. Several of our members are on Megawatt, Magnet's house teams.
Cast
J Bala / @instant.lewdles
Anson Chan / @ironistchef
Ryan Chittapong / @ryanchittaphong
Michelle Chu / @michellemchuuu
Brennard Gamboa / @spondiferous
Alex Loh / @alexloh528
Sonia Nam / @sonianam
Improv: STIR FRIDAY NIGHT / @stirfridaynight
Chicago’s longest-running AAPI comedy team, 31 years and counting. With alumni like Steven Yeun (Walking Dead), Danny Pudi (Community), and Mary Sohn (AP Bio), Stir Friday Night is a pillar of the Chicago comedy scene. MSG included. Follow us @stirfridaynight on all social media and www.stirfridaynight.com
Cast
Shashwat Arya / @hungry.arya
Kathleen Hansen / @mskathleenhansen
Jonathan Lee-Rey / @jontheerey
Heather Mari / @theheathermari
Tina Mavalankar / @mychicagoadventures
Zalia Maya / @zaliamaya
Joyce Mojica / @apocketfullofjoyce
Marie Molina / @mariemolinagrimm
Esther Oh / @whoever.u.r
Produced by
Will Choi, Allyn Pintal, Candice Yang, Tae Yoo
Line-up subject to change
Purchase Tickets Here!
https://outsideintheatre.vbotickets.com/event/af_nation_coast_to_coast_comedy_showcase/203358
SFN at AF Fest in Los Angeles!
The Double Feature w/ Special Guest Amy Hill: Mothership, Stir Friday Night
The Double Feature brings together two top-tier improv teams, offering you the best of both worlds: one team launching into a brilliant set inspired by a direct audience suggestion, and the second team creating hilarious scenes inspired by a live, on-stage interview with a special celebrity guest!
Featuring…
Special Guest: AMY HILL /@amyhillactor
Amy Hill is an American character actress and comedian known for often playing Grandmother or motherly type roles in both live action and voice roles. Hill’s first major role was as Yung-Hee “Grandma” Kim on All-American Girl where her character became the breakout character of the short lived, but ground breaking television series. Hill has been a mainstay on American television as a regular in 6 series while many of her roles being recurring roles the most notable roles being, Mrs. DePaulo on That’s So Raven, Mama Tohru on Jackie Chan Adventures, Mrs. Hasagawa on Lilo & Stitch: The Series, Ah-Mah Jasmine Lee in The Life and Times of Juniper Lee, Judy Harvey in Enlightened, and American Dad! as Mah Mah. Hill is currently a series regular on the Amazon Video Web television show Just Add Magic along with recurring in UnReal as Dr. Wagerstein on the basic cable network Lifetime and The CW romantic comedy musical Crazy Ex-Girlfriend as Lourdes Chan. This season, she’s added The Great Indoors as the head of HR, and returns as Beverly in Mom. In film, she is perhaps best known for her roles as Mrs. Kwan in The Cat in the Hat, Sue in 50 First Dates, and Mrs. Ho-Kim in Next Friday.
Improv: MOTHERSHIP
Mothership is a team originally put together for Asian AF's Voltron And Friends show. Since then, they have performed at UCB's BYOT and Fancy Improv and have been in love ever since.
Cast
Hanna Barlow / @hannabarlow
Stephanie Burchinow / @stephburch1
Sam Di / @samldi
Cassie Grilley / @cassiewassie295
Anisha Jagannathan / @anishasprinkles
Mickey Woo / @mickeymwoo
Tao Yang / @tyang209
Improv: STIR FRIDAY NIGHT / @stirfridaynight
Chicago’s longest-running AAPI comedy team, 31 years and counting. With alumni like Steven Yeun (Walking Dead), Danny Pudi (Community), and Mary Sohn (AP Bio), Stir Friday Night is a pillar of the Chicago comedy scene. MSG included. Follow us @stirfridaynight on all social media and www.stirfridaynight.com
Cast
Shashwat Arya / @hungry.arya
Kathleen Hansen / @mskathleenhansen
Jonathan Lee-Rey / @jontheerey
Heather Mari / @theheathermari
Tina Mavalankar / @mychicagoadventures
Zalia Maya / @zaliamaya
Joyce Mojica / @apocketfullofjoyce
Marie Molina / @mariemolinagrimm
Esther Oh / @whoever.u.r
Produced by
Will Choi, Allyn Pintal, Candice Yang, Tae Yoo
Line-up subject to change
Purchase Tickets Here! https://outsideintheatre.vbotickets.com/event/the_double_feature_w_special_guest_amy_hill_mothership_stir_friday_night/203833
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
Stir Friday Night @ Detroit Improv Festival 13
The Detroit Improv Festival Proudly Presents
Stir Friday Night (Chicago, IL) For 30 years, Stir Friday Night, Chicago's longest-running AAPI comedy team, has been making people laugh. This show is no exception. With alumni like Steven Yeun (Walking Dead) and Danny Pudi (Community), SFN is a pillar of the Chicago comedy scene. MSG included.
Reome Ring (Chicago, IL) Started in 2019 The Reome Ring is a monthly long-form show featuring Chicago's best, creating improv chaos at the whim of a bell. Every month offers a new assemblage of the city's top-notch improvisers...except this one is at DIF!
DIF All Stars Have you ever wondered what would happen if some of the most talented improvisers all ended up on one stage together? DIF All-Stars will satisfy that curiosity! It is a comingling of performers from our headlining troupes coming together to give you 45 minutes of hilarity. The cast will include Jaime Moyer, Chad Damiani, Ithamar Enriquez and members of SAND, HinProv, and BlackGround. Don't miss it!
Purchase tickets here!
Stir Friday Night @ iO Fest
Venue opens at 3:30pm
GA shows begin at 4 pm.
iO Fest 2026, Chicago's largest improv festival, returns on July 23-26!
Four days packed with improv, sketch, performance art, musical improv, music, and more, featuring over 130 acts from all over the world!
Purchasing this 1-Day pass grants access to all General Admission performances taking place over the weekend. Space is limited in every performance venue, so seating is first-come, first-served. Shows take place each day approximately from 4 PM to 1 AM.
This Friday pass for iO Fest 2026 includes admission to the following acts:
A Little Conversation
Akash Bajpai
Arson
Awkward Family Dinner
Baby Grand
Barbara, a Mother
Big Freak
Black Star
Bridal Darty
Calamity Quest
Cat and George Are Doing Just Fine
Creamboy
Dan Burger
Danielle Steger Finds a Job
Devil's Daughter
Facebook Marketplace Live: The Game Show
Feast
Fever Dream
Gale
Grace Kilpatrick
Grown Man Baby
HTH
Improvised Housewives
Internet Online
Jacob Mundell
Johnathan Anderson
Karan Mehra
Kaseria
Last Night Was Fun
Lauren Frost
Lavender Throuple
Marquee
Michelle Improv
Mischief
Ms. Biscuit
One Woman Car Show
Play Time
Primetime
Quest And...
Rat Race
Regionals: The Musical
The Rose
Single Living
Slonky
Spades Table
Stir Friday Night
Tipping Point
Touch Baseball
Trash King
Two Bears Blow Up in a Car
Wet Pizza
What a Year
Wheel of Improv
Whimsy Lohan
Whirled News
***Purchase of this 1-Day GA Pass DOES NOT grant admission to any headliner shows: 3Peat, Armando, Astronomy Club, Baby Wants Candy, Claire + Kim, Comedy Dance Chicago, ¡ESCÁNDALO!, Improvised Shakespeare Co., Jackbox Games, James Conklin Memorial Scholarship Show, Parker Callahan, SAND, The Sloppy Boys, UCB Soundtrack, and Unmuted. Tickets for those specific shows much be purchased separately.***
1-Day passes are non-transferable and non-refundable. Purchaser must show up to our box office with an ID identical to the name under which they purchased the tickets to receive their day pass.
iO Fest is an all-ages event, but due to the improvised nature of our shows, we cannot guarantee the appropriateness of each show for younger audiences.
Follow iO on social media to stay up to date with all information related to iO Fest 2026. Purchase the 4-Day pass here to save money on all shows!
BUY TICKETS HERE
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
AAPI Comedy Night and Jam
Asian improvisers from across the US converge for a 1 night only show at the Legendary Second City NYC tonight at 9:30PM!
Line-Up:
@stirfridaynight (Chicago, IL)
@yallweasian (Austin, TX)
@shoesoffimprov (New York, NYC)
AAPI Improv Jam
Thank you @secondcitynyc for supporting Asian Comedy!
Del Close Marathon (DCM'26) in NYC
NEW YORK WE BACK!!!!
We’re so excited to be part of UCB’s legendary DEL CLOSE MARATHON! DCM ‘26
Catch us Friday 6/12 at 5:00pm at Theater for A New City
Stay after to support the fest June 12–14 in NYC!
Tix at ucbcomedy.com
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
SFN Opens for D.A.R.E Dropouts AAPI MONTH
The final bell just rang! You better get out of the classroom and get your ass to the iO Theater for After School Special brought to you by iO's first all-POC house team, D.A.R.E. Dropouts.
This show brings you something new every week, featuring a variety of local acts by performers of color and an improv set from the Dropouts themselves. The coolest kids in school, no one does a Harold (iO's signature form) quite like D.A.R.E. Dropouts. We're bringing you comedy in color; you're gonna want to tune in.
THE DROPOUTS:
Alexi Bolden
Avery Ford
AJ Reglado
Emefa Dzodzomenyo
Grace Goze
Jazmin Robinson
Kelton Neals
Michael Elluru
Montrez Hawkins
Rudy Fajardo
Sabrina Odigie
You can get the drop on D.A.R.E. Dropouts by following @daredropouts.io on Instagram!
Purchase Tickets Here
SFN at Crème de La Femme Fest
Finally, women are funny! Join us at the iO Theater for Chicago’s first and only all-femme improv festival: Crème de la Femme. For two nights, watch and laugh with the best of the best women and femme improvisers in Chicago - all performing scenes and characters that have never been seen before and will never be seen again.
FRIDAY NIGHT
6 PM: Easy Bake Coven, Beef Cake, Improvised Jane Austen
7 PM: Stir Friday Night, Boys Club, Lerin
8 PM: Women of a Certain Age, Super Human
9 PM: Denim, The Girold, Ladies of Marquee
10 PM: Claire and Zoe, A Secret Third Thing, Gorgeous
SATURDAY NIGHT
6 PM: Giddy Yup, Teeny Tiny Tinis, The Real Space Wives of Alderaan
7 PM: Improvised Sitcom, Peggy, Jules & Friends
8 PM: Freak of the Week: 2 Dead Ass Hoes, Blast!
9 PM: Hell Fried, Women in STEM, Teen Girl Book Musical
10 PM: HAGS, Improvised Housewives of iO, Juicy
Follow @femmefest.io on Instagram for more details on our lineup and updates about festival happenings!
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
SFN Opens for D.A.R.E Dropouts AAPI MONTH
The final bell just rang! You better get out of the classroom and get your ass to the iO Theater for After School Special brought to you by iO's first all-POC house team, D.A.R.E. Dropouts.
This show brings you something new every week, featuring a variety of local acts by performers of color and an improv set from the Dropouts themselves. The coolest kids in school, no one does a Harold (iO's signature form) quite like D.A.R.E. Dropouts. We're bringing you comedy in color; you're gonna want to tune in.
THE DROPOUTS:
Alexi Bolden
Avery Ford
AJ Reglado
Emefa Dzodzomenyo
Grace Goze
Jazmin Robinson
Kelton Neals
Michael Elluru
Montrez Hawkins
Rudy Fajardo
Sabrina Odigie
You can get the drop on D.A.R.E. Dropouts by following @daredropouts.io on Instagram!
Purchase Tickets Here
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
Wednesday Night Improv with Stir Friday Night
Stir Friday Night is the longest running Asian American comedy troupe with nearly three decades of existence that includes notable alumni such as Steven Yeun and Danny Pudi. Most recently performing in Steppenwolf’s Lookout Series, Stir Friday Night will perform an hour-long improv set that’s fun for every age.
All ages are welcome.
This event is free to the public.
All information can be found here!
SFN Opens for D.A.R.E Dropouts AAPI MONTH
The final bell just rang! You better get out of the classroom and get your ass to the iO Theater for After School Special brought to you by iO's first all-POC house team, D.A.R.E. Dropouts.
This show brings you something new every week, featuring a variety of local acts by performers of color and an improv set from the Dropouts themselves. The coolest kids in school, no one does a Harold (iO's signature form) quite like D.A.R.E. Dropouts. We're bringing you comedy in color; you're gonna want to tune in.
THE DROPOUTS:
Alexi Bolden
Avery Ford
AJ Reglado
Emefa Dzodzomenyo
Grace Goze
Jazmin Robinson
Kelton Neals
Michael Elluru
Montrez Hawkins
Rudy Fajardo
Sabrina Odigie
You can get the drop on D.A.R.E. Dropouts by following @daredropouts.io on Instagram!
Purchase Tickets Here
Riksha Returns: A Celebration of AANHPI Art, Music & Community
Please join us for Riksha Returns, a multidisciplinary evening of Asian American, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander art, performance, and community storytelling on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Rizal Center in Chicago.
First launched in 1993, Riksha began as a literary and cultural platform, including a print magazine and live performances, amplifying Asian American voices in Chicago. In 2017, Riksha evolved into an online magazine continuing its mission to showcase AANHPC voices. After a period of quiet in recent years, Riksha returns—reimagined as a live gathering and evolving archive.
The night begins at 6:30pm with an artist reception featuring over twenty artists, many previously published in Riksha, alongside new contributors Guests are invited to connect with artists & experience their contemporary work.
Artists include:
Reevah Agarwaal
Jose G. Aggari Jr.
Kioto Aoki
Youngsun Choi
Cesar Conde
Kunio Hagio
Kaitlyn Hwang
Greg Jue
Cherin Kim
Laura Kina
Tulika Ladsariya
Ivan Lee
Larry Lee
Li Lin Lee
Cori Nakamura Lin
Lisa Tomiko Macri
Geraldine Martinez-Benz
Linh N.W.
Sarah Nishiura
Touly Phiachantharath
Danielle Tanimura
Dean Yamada
Performances will begin at 7:30pm featuring:
*Banyan Asian American Writers Collective
*CIRCA Pintig
*Nothing Without a Company
*Sona Umbra
*Stir Friday Night
*Writer Patty Cooper
*Writer Vinh Hoang
*Writer/Performer Hannah Ii-Epstein
*Writer Dwight Okita
*Writer/performer Lani Montreal
*Singer/songwriter Chika Sekiguchi
*Writer PJ Temple
Throughout the night, guests can participate in a Storytelling Booth. Attendees are invited to record a short story, poem, reflection, or song. These recordings will become part of the Riksha Living Archive and may be curated into future publications and releases.
Light bites will be served (dairy/nut/shellfish-free).
Event Details
Riksha Returns: A Celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Art, Story, and Community
Saturday, May 16, 2026
6:30pm – Art Exhibit Reception
7:30pm – Performances
11:00pm – Close
Rizal Center, 1332 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL
Featuring: Visual Art • Spoken Word • Live Music • Storytelling Booth
Art Exhibit runs from May 4 to June 5, 2026. By appointment or as Rizal Center public events allow.
CIRCA Pintig is a proud partner and sponsor of Riksha Returns: A Celebration of AANHPI Art, Music & Community, organized by Riksha Magazine. We are excited to announce that we are also accepting donations on behalf of this event.
While the Rizal Center building does not have an elevator, a chairlift is available to access the upper floor. Staff will be on hand to assist with navigating the steps and using the lift. We would also like to express our gratitude to the Rizal Center and the FACGC Board for making a “home away from home” for our artist community.
About Riksha Magazine
Founded in 1993, Riksha Magazine is a Chicago-based literary and cultural platform rooted in Asian American storytelling. Known for amplifying emerging and established voices, Riksha returns with a renewed focus on live performance, community storytelling, and the creation of a living archive. Contact rikshamagazine@gmail.com with any inquiries. www.riksha.com
Asian Persuasion Variety Show
Come join us for the 3rd Annual Asian Persuasion Variety Show! Produced by Peace of Cake Productions.
Come join us for the 3rd Annual Asian Persuasion Variety Show (AP3)! AP3 is a part of the Foundation for Asian American Independent Media's 29th annual Asian American Showcase! This variety show will feature Chicago's best AAPI performers including music, standup, dance, improv and more! The past two years of or show have SOLD OUT, so don't wait and grab your tickets now!
LINEUP:
Host: Jin Kim
Mantra (standup)
Devin Jeong-Wright (standup)
Hao Dance
Jerry Tran (standup)
Improv from - Grace Goze, Soph Hubeny, Lauren Hugh & Maia Palma
Saku Yanagawa (standup)
Stir Friday Night (Improv)
Let'S F'N Jam: An AAPI Improv Jam
Stir Friday Night, Chicago's longest-running AAPI comedy team, is proud to host let'S F N jam! An improv jam for our wonderful, talented, AAPI community!
Whether you're brand new to improv or an improv pro, we're happy to be a space to get your reps and play!
SIGN UPS 7:00
SHOW 7:30
Don't stress, juSt F'N jam!
REGISTER HERE! FREE!
Improv is Dead
The podcast Improv is Dead goes completely wireless for a night of Improv and Stand-up! Featuring Tim Lyons and Damian Anaya along with special guests Mike Brunlieb and Laurel Krabacher. This month's show features Improv from Stir Friday Night and Stand-up from Talia Clay!
Improv is Dead won the "Best Comedy Podcast of 2024" from Discoverpods.com. Fast and funny – Improv is Dead commits to raw emotion and extreme silliness while allowing the two to live simultaneously.
Tickets can be purchased online and at the door. All ticket sales are final and no refunds are permitted.
We are a small, open seating venue and encourage large groups to arrive at least 15 minutes before show time to find seats together. Please contact us ahead of time if you need any accommodations.
We are BYOB! (Bring your own beverage)
SFN Opens for D.A.R.E Dropouts AAPI MONTH
The final bell just rang! You better get out of the classroom and get your ass to the iO Theater for After School Special brought to you by iO's first all-POC house team, D.A.R.E. Dropouts.
This show brings you something new every week, featuring a variety of local acts by performers of color and an improv set from the Dropouts themselves. The coolest kids in school, no one does a Harold (iO's signature form) quite like D.A.R.E. Dropouts. We're bringing you comedy in color; you're gonna want to tune in.
THE DROPOUTS:
Alexi Bolden
Avery Ford
AJ Reglado
Emefa Dzodzomenyo
Grace Goze
Jazmin Robinson
Kelton Neals
Michael Elluru
Montrez Hawkins
Rudy Fajardo
Sabrina Odigie
You can get the drop on D.A.R.E. Dropouts by following @daredropouts.io on Instagram!
Purchase Tickets Here
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
SFN Hosts the Secret Show
Tonight at 6pm, Chicago’s longest running AAPI comedy group, Stir Friday Night is hosting the jam! You’ll have a chance to ask questions about the form and the performance, and then we’ll host a Jam for you to get up and try it.
This is available for all students, not just students on Tuesday night, but if you are student on Tuesday then feel free to just show up before your class! You can expect a different Secret Show every Tuesday night this session, hosted by a different group of improv community all stars (including a performance and a jam).
SFN @ Evolution Arts Festival!
EVOLUTION Asian American Arts Festival
Lookingglass Theatre
May 2–3, 2026
The Future of AAPINH Creativity is Here!
Celebrate transformation and experience the creative power of over 125 artists and performers at EVOLUTION. From explosive performances, fine art, and independent film to a curated food and craft marketplace, join us in celebrating the growing legacy of Asian American, Pacific Island, Native Hawaiian AAPINH artistry during AAPI Heritage Month. www.AAAC.art
May 2-3
Lookingglass Theatre
Each ticket includes:
Unique photo booth experience
Exclusive sticker and button to commemorate the weekend
Full access to the food & craft marketplace
Entry to all performances (capacity permitting)
Tickets are moving fast! To secure a spot before the event sells out.
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
SFN Opens for D.A.R.E Dropouts AAPI MONTH
The final bell just rang! You better get out of the classroom and get your ass to the iO Theater for After School Special brought to you by iO's first all-POC house team, D.A.R.E. Dropouts.
This show brings you something new every week, featuring a variety of local acts by performers of color and an improv set from the Dropouts themselves. The coolest kids in school, no one does a Harold (iO's signature form) quite like D.A.R.E. Dropouts. We're bringing you comedy in color; you're gonna want to tune in.
THE DROPOUTS:
Alexi Bolden
Avery Ford
AJ Reglado
Emefa Dzodzomenyo
Grace Goze
Jazmin Robinson
Kelton Neals
Michael Elluru
Montrez Hawkins
Rudy Fajardo
Sabrina Odigie
You can get the drop on D.A.R.E. Dropouts by following @daredropouts.io on Instagram!
Purchase Tickets Here
Comedy Showcase at the Rizal Center!
Join us at the April Comedy Showcase, featuring improv from Stir Friday Night and stand-up humor from local comedians!
Your ticket 🎫 supports the Filipino American Council of Greater Chicago’s work to preserve our culture, strengthen community connections, and keep the Rizal Center thriving as a welcoming space for all.
Reserve your spot, bring friends, and share in a night of joy and connection!
TICKET LINK HERE
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
hAAPI hour : An AAPI Community Showcase in the Heart of Argyle
Every other week, Fridays at 7:30, Stir Friday Night hosts AAPI talent from all over Chicagoland! Whether it’s music, storytelling, history lectures, or something completely different you’re bound to be impressed by the abundance of talent right here in Chicago. And with Stir Friday Night closing the show, you’re guaranteed to laugh!
Before the show, hang out with us as we get to know the people in our community!
Argyle is more than a place for delicious food; having a space for us in our own neighborhood to showcase and build community is so important!
Purchase tickets here!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/stir-friday-night-presents-haapi-hour-an-aapi-community-showcase-in-the-heart-of-argyle
Info regarding ticket prices:
To make this show as accessible as possible, we have several ticketing tiers, so please feel free to purchase what works for your individual financial situation!
Stir Friday Night! @ Second City's Fellowship Thursdays
Use Promo Code: DeICE for Free Admission
Celebrating Bob Curry and Victor Wong Fellows from the beginning to right now. This show is a platform for all performers of color to play, workshop and learn from each other and grow together. Every style of comedy is welcome and we can’t wait to hear your voice.
Come watch, come play.
Looking to perform in The Fellowship Show? Register Here
TICKETS AVAILABLE BELOW
https://www.secondcity.com/shows/chicago/fellowship-thursdays-chi
Our Commitment to Accessibility
Stir Friday Night is committed to making our performances accessible to all audience members. We recognize that accessibility needs vary and may include accommodations for visual, hearing, mobility, sensory, and intellectual/developmental disabilities.
While we do not have a dedicated venue, we are responsible for ensuring accessibility. We will work with individuals to identify and arrange reasonable accommodations, such as sign language interpretation or reserved seating. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact us at info@stirfridaynight.com with 30 days notice, and we will do our best to accommodate.
