Get Ready to Kvell with Chutzpah in the Chi
Chutzpah in the Chi is more than just a comedy show. Chicago’s premier Jewish comedy show is a celebration of Jewish humor, audacity, and culture. Created by Rebecca Joey Schwab, Chutzpah in the Chi aims to create a warm space where Jews (and non Jews) of all backgrounds can come together to laugh and enjoy comedy with a Jewish twist. The mission is to make Jewish comedy visible and accessible, starting in Chicago and hopefully spreading across the country. Rebecca Joey Schwab, the co-founder of ChiTribe, started this show to provide a space for Jewish standups and audiences to connect, celebrate, and kvell over Jewish comedy. Get tickets now for the first Chutzpah in the Chi show on August 21 here. Find all the upcoming shows and open mic nights here.
Chutzpah in the Chi is a monthly showcase featuring themed shows like Queer Jews, Hot Jews, Jewish Bachelorette and Bachelor, and the much-anticipated Christmas Eve Show. Each month, the show travels nomadically to a new venue, bringing fresh, unhinged Jewish humor to all parts of the Chicagoland area.
Chutzpah in the Chi
The Jewish Comedy Scene in Chicago
Chicago has an incredible comedy scene with many comedians who also happen to be Jewish. Even though there is so much talent, there has not been a dedicated hub for Jewish-themed comedy in the city. Chutzpah in the Chi fills that gap, offering a platform for comics to perform Jewish material to largely Jewish audiences. Chutzpah in the Chi is actively seeking talented comedians to join the lineup (since there will be one show a month – and they are seeking the best Jewish comics). If you’re interested in becoming a Chutzpah comic, we encourage you to audition by filling out the form below.
Chutzpah in the Chi is a monthly showcase featuring themed shows like Queer Jews, Hot Jews, Jewish Bachelorette and Bachelor, and the much-anticipated Christmas Eve Show. Each month, we travel to a new venue, bringing fresh, unhinged humor from some of the best Jewish comedians around.
Mark your calendars:
- August 21 at the Graystone Tavern in Lakeview 7:30 PM Door | 8PM Show
- September 18 at AliveOne in Lincoln Park 7:30 PM Door | 8PM Show
- October (TBA) – there are so many holidays it is a logistical nightmare
The First Show: August 21, 2024
Join us on August 21 at Graystone Tavern for an evening of hilarious Jewish comedy that will make you kvell. Hosted by the Queen of Chutzpah, Rebecca Joey Schwab, this show promises to be a night filled with laughter and community. Doors open at 7:30 PM, and the show starts at 8 PM. The lineup features: Ian Zeid, Adam Kwaselow, and Becca Nix Tham.
Ian Zeid
Prepare to be entertained by Ian Zeid, a Chicago-based comic and producer known for his sharp wit, silly observations, and playful ignorance. Originally from the suburbs of DC, Ian’s comedy journey began in Columbus, Ohio, and has brought him to the Windy City. Don’t miss his unique comedic voice and catch him performing all over Chicago. Follow @ianzeidcomedy
Adam Kwaselow
A comedy veteran, Adam Kwaselow has been writing jokes since he was 9 and has been funny since he was 24. He runs the monthly shows “F**k You” at Lincoln Lodge and “The Graveyard Shift” at DMen Tap, and hosts a weekly Twitch stream called Botch Party, where he hilariously roasts movies. Adam’s comedic prowess and fear of bees make for a unique and entertaining experience. Follow @kwaselow
Becca Nix Tham
With a decade of experience in stand-up, improv, and sketch, Becca Nix Tham brings her queer Asian Jewish background to the stage with her unique and hilarious bits. You may have seen her at the Ladies of Laughter festival, Crazy Woke Asians Fest, or the World Comedy Expo. Be sure to catch her with the Jewish Comedy Project, Annoyance’s Trigger Happy, and Lincoln Lodge’s Lone Wolf Variety. Follow @beccahasokhair
Kvetch Sesh: Jewish Open Mics
Our Kvetch Sesh Jewish Open Mics provide a space for Jewish comics to hone their craft and practice their material for a Jewish audience. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or thinking about getting on stage for the first time, Kvetch Sesh is the perfect place to try out your material and connect with the community. These open mics occur once a month and offer a supportive environment for creativity and laughter. The next Kvetch Sess will be in September, date TBA. Follow @ChutzpahintheChi for all the updates.
Connect with Chutzpah in the Chi
To learn more about Chutzpah in the Chi and stay updated on future shows, follow us on Instagram at @chutzpahinthechi. Chutzpah in the Chi is your new home for Jewish comedy in Chicago—a place where you can laugh, connect, and celebrate Jewish humor. Tickets are $10 and on sale now at www.ChutzpahintheChi.com. Everyone is welcome, whether you are Jewish, non-Jewish, a comic, or an audience member just looking for a fun night out. With a rotating lineup of talented comedians and diverse themes, each show promises fresh Jewish jokes. Share the laughter and chutzpah at the next show.
