When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Annoyance Theatre & Bar
Why Annoyance Theatre & Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Annoyance Theatre & Bar, nestled in Chicago's vibrant Lakeview district on West Belmont Avenue, stands out as a premier destination for friends seeking a night filled with laughter, improv, and an inviting atmosphere. Established in 1987 by Mick Napier, this venue blends a unique combination of theater and bar, creating a sociable space where comedy enthusiasts can enjoy both live performances and a full-service bar with comfort food offerings. Known for its irreverent and absurd humor, Annoyance has crafted some of Chicago's most memorable shows, including the record-breaking musical comedy 'Co-Ed Prison Sluts'. Visitors can experience a variety of performances ranging from improvised scenes, sketch comedy, to musical improvisation and original plays — all characterized by their bold, uncensored style. Beyond performances, the theatre offers classes in improvisation, writing, and solo work, making it a nurturing ground for emerging comedic talent. The venue's proximity to the Belmont CTA stop adds accessibility, inviting guests to relax and fully immerse themselves in the spirited energy of the theatre and bar setting. Whether planning a casual meetup or a full evening escapade, Annoyance Theatre & Bar combines creative entertainment with convivial ambiance, making it a welcoming spot for friends and comedy lovers alike.
Here's what people think of Annoyance Theatre & Bar
As of recent, Annoyance Theatre & Bar holds a 4.7-star rating based on 741 reviews.
Reviews of Annoyance Theatre & Bar reflect a generally strong appreciation for its vibrant atmosphere and distinctive comedic style, as evidenced by its high rating of 4.7 from over 740 reviewers. Patrons consistently highlight the theatre's energetic performances that often involve enthusiastic improvisation and interactive, unpredictable humor. Many positive reviews praise the immense talent of the actors and the theatre’s commitment to fresh, edgy content that keeps audiences entertained and laughing throughout the night. The full bar and approachable comfort food options add to a relaxed, inviting environment that complements the theatrical experience. Frequent mentions commend the friendly staff and the venue’s convenient location near public transit, which enhances its accessibility for a night out. Conversely, some negative feedback notes that, given the venue’s focus on emerging talent, show quality can sometimes be inconsistent, with certain performances described as hit-or-miss. A few visitors mention that familiarity with improv is helpful to fully enjoy the often experimental or uncensored nature of the comedy. Despite occasional uneven shows, the consensus is that Annoyance offers a unique, lively experience that provides tremendous value and entertainment. Overall, the theatre’s dedication to original, bold improvisational comedy and its welcoming bar atmosphere solidify its reputation as a cherished Chicago entertainment destination.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Wendi Stone
Awesome first-time experience! Hilarious show, plus the cookies were delicious! Great service, and I can't wait to return! Oh, they also have PBR... that's like 20 bonus points! :)
Alexander Sofronas
Great shows, very good priced drinks and food. Can’t beat for a fun date night!
Michele Rivelli-Bucci
Amazing time and performances enjoyed at Shake the Baby!!! Francesca Bucci Grandpa was a hilarious pull up from the audience!!
Addison Carpenter
We saw the show Steamworks last night and it was incredible. Vocals were amazing, they had us laughing the entire time - a few improv moments (jeans) were hysterical - we will definitely be back. Absolutely amazing show!
Hope
Every time I come here is a great time! Some of the jokes/skits have literally stuck with me over a year after seeing the show and become inside jokes b/w myself and who I went with 💙 On top of all that, the drinks are actually affordable AND there's no minimum drink requirement. Thank you guys for being great!!
How to reach Annoyance Theatre & Bar
None
Website: None
Why Annoyance Theatre & Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Annoyance Theatre & Bar with your friends?
When seeking the perfect spot to gather with friends for an unforgettable night out, Annoyance Theatre & Bar in Chicago stands out as an exceptional choice. This unique venue blends a vibrant comedy theater with an inviting bar, offering an experience that is both entertaining and social. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 700 reviews, it’s clear that the atmosphere here resonates strongly with guests who appreciate a mix of sharp humor, creative performances, and casual conviviality. The hallmark of Annoyance is its continual offering of diverse shows, primarily focusing on improv comedy—a format known for spontaneous, audience-driven entertainment that keeps everyone engaged and laughing. This highly interactive entertainment style not only creates a memorable night but also naturally fosters a sense of camaraderie and fun among groups. Whether you want to experience a hilarious improvised thriller like their popular Hitch*Cocktails or just chill with friends while enjoying reasonably priced drinks and comfort food, Annoyance Theatre & Bar caters perfectly to groups who want to rally, laugh, and relax together. It’s more than just a night out—it’s a shared adventure into live comedy and good times that your friends will remember and ask to repeat.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Annoyance Theatre & Bar?
At Annoyance Theatre & Bar, the activities revolve around dynamic, live entertainment combined with socializing in a friendly bar environment. The main attraction is its extensive schedule of improv and sketch comedy shows that take place seven nights a week. These performances are crafted by talented, often experimental comedians who bring a raw and genuine energy to each show, meaning there’s always an element of surprise and novelty. One of their signature experiences is Hitch*Cocktails—a fully improvised comedic thriller with an audience participation twist that involves drinking games for both performers and guests, creating a playful, immersive atmosphere. Beyond watching shows, visitors can engage more directly by enrolling in improv classes offered by the theater, which is ideal for groups interested in nurturing their comedic skills or simply sharing a fun and creative learning experience. Adjacent to the performances, the bar serves up a selection of affordable drinks—from standard cocktails to local beers—complemented by generous portions of comfort food like jumbo chicken tenders. This combination of activities—interactive comedy, education, eating, and drinking—makes the venue perfect for groups because it supports a range of engagement levels, from active participation to relaxed enjoyment.
Why is Annoyance Theatre & Bar an ideal spot for group meetups?
Annoyance Theatre & Bar provides a finely tuned setting for groups due to its welcoming atmosphere, diverse entertainment, and affordable offerings. Unlike more formal theaters, Annoyance encourages a casual vibe where friends can laugh uproariously together, interact with performers, and linger long after the show at the bar. This encourages social bonding and makes it easy to include everyone in the fun—even those who might be less familiar with improv or live theater. The venue’s flexible spaces are also available for private rentals, allowing groups to customize meetups, whether for celebrations, team-building, or casual reunions. Moreover, the pricing is very reasonable, with food and drink specials that help keep the evening budget-friendly, which is often a major concern when planning group outings. Its central Chicago location with accessible public transit options further removes logistical barriers for groups, promoting a hassle-free experience from arrival to departure. This blend of convenience, entertainment variety, and an upbeat setting makes Annoyance Theatre & Bar exceptionally suited for group gatherings where fun and connection are the goals.
What food and drink options does Annoyance Theatre & Bar offer?
Food and drink at Annoyance Theatre & Bar perfectly complement the live entertainment, serving comfort and quality without breaking the bank. Their menu features classic bar fare, with crowd-pleasers like huge portions of chicken tenders that are generous enough to share, ideal for groups of friends. The bites are straightforward and hearty, designed to satisfy hunger while you enjoy the shows or conversations at your table. Drink-wise, Annoyance offers a well-priced selection including standard cocktails, local beers, and mixed drinks, making it easy to sip, toast, and unwind without the premium prices found at many Chicago nightlife spots. During shows like Hitch*Cocktails, ordering a signature drink adds to the interactive ambiance, as performers incorporate drinking games into the comedy. Food and drink specials frequently run, providing added value for guests checking in via platforms like Yelp. This thoughtful pairing of accessible dining and drinks cements Annoyance as a go-to venue for relaxed yet lively group experiences.
How does the improv scene at Annoyance Theatre & Bar enhance the group experience?
The improv scene at Annoyance Theatre & Bar is the heartbeat of its charm and what truly elevates it as an extraordinary venue for groups. Improv comedy thrives on spontaneity and group interaction; performers take audience suggestions and feedback live, crafting one-of-a-kind shows where no two performances are identical. This creates a fun, unpredictable environment that naturally draws groups into shared laughter and participation. The theater is home to numerous improv troupes and regularly runs around 32 different shows weekly, so there’s always something fresh and suited to many comedic tastes. For those new to improv, the performances offer an accessible gateway to live comedy, while frequent visitors delight in recognizing recurring performers and storylines. Additionally, the community-building aspect is strong here: performers often mingle with the audience post-show, blurring the lines between entertainer and spectator and encouraging a friendly, inclusive vibe. This interactive performance style strengthens bonds among friends as they enjoy collective humor and maybe even join a class or workshop together, making Annoyance a rich hub for comedy lovers and social groups alike.
What rental and class opportunities make Annoyance Theatre & Bar special?
Annoyance Theatre & Bar goes beyond being a simple entertainment venue by offering rental spaces and classes, making it not just a place to visit but a destination to participate in creatively and socially. Groups looking to host private events can rent various areas of the theater including the bar area, small theater rooms, or the main stage. This flexibility means that birthday parties, work functions, or celebration meetups can be tailored to a group’s exact needs with access to professional-grade comedic performance spaces. Alongside rentals, the theater’s improv classes provide a unique group activity to bond over learning the art of improvisation. These classes cater to various skill levels and focus on core improv skills such as quick thinking, teamwork, and stage presence, which are not only fun but also help improve communication among participants. Taking a class as a group before or after attending shows can transform a night out into a shared adventure of learning and laughter, deepening connections through the joy of creative expression. This combination of rental and education options enhances Annoyance’s appeal as a versatile venue for social gatherings.
How accessible and convenient is Annoyance Theatre & Bar for groups?
Accessibility and convenience are key factors that contribute to why Annoyance Theatre & Bar is a favored spot for group meetups in Chicago. Located in a central area well-served by public transit, the venue is easy to reach whether friends are coming from downtown or the suburbs. This centrality eliminates much of the stress involved in organizing group outings, especially in a city known for traffic congestion and parking challenges. For those driving, there are parking options nearby, but many prefer public transit or rideshares for stress-free arrival and departure. The theater's operating hours offer flexibility, hosting shows every night of the week, which lets groups plan outings on their preferred days without compromising on entertainment quality. The welcoming staff and laid-back environment also cater well to various group sizes, from intimate gatherings to larger parties, ensuring everyone feels accommodated and comfortable. This logistical ease combined with the venue’s dynamic offerings makes Annoyance Theatre & Bar an outstanding choice for easy and enjoyable group nights out.
Why is the comedy at Annoyance Theatre & Bar considered unique and appealing?
The comedy at Annoyance Theatre & Bar is distinctively bold, experimental, and unapologetically original, setting it apart from typical comedy clubs. With a legacy of over 35 years, the theater is home to iconic shows known for pushing boundaries and blending improv with sketch comedy, musicals, and even raunchy humor. This willingness to test comedic limits attracts performers eager to innovate and audiences looking for something beyond standard jokes. Shows like Co-ed Prison Sluts and That Darned Antichrist have shaped its reputation as a place where creative freedom thrives, delivering laughs that are often edgy, clever, and always surprising. The environment encourages audience participation and interaction, which not only heightens the entertainment value but also involves the crowd in creating the comedic experience. This nurturing of fresh talent alongside seasoned performers means groups often witness acts at the cutting edge of Chicago’s vibrant comedy scene, making every visit a fresh and memorable one.
What makes Annoyance Theatre & Bar a good choice for a mixed group of friends or family?
Annoyance Theatre & Bar caters well to mixed groups because it balances lively entertainment with a friendly, accessible atmosphere where people of different ages and tastes can comfortably gather. The variety of show styles—ranging from straight improv to musical comedy and themed interactive productions—means there is likely something to entertain everyone in a mixed group without making anyone feel out of place. The bar and food service provide a relaxed social hub suitable for catching up before or after shows, making it ideal for groups that might want to mix dining and entertainment. While some performances embrace a bit of raunchiness, generally the theater’s spirit is inclusive and open, appealing to diverse groups whether friends, families of older teens and adults, or colleagues. The affordability of the venue and approachable nature of its comedy also lower the threshold for spontaneous group visits. This balance of inclusivity, variety, and casual comfort makes Annoyance a reliable, enjoyable venue for mixed group meetups looking for evenings filled with laughter, socializing, and shared new experiences.