COPLEY COMEDY SERIES Brings Chicago Stand-Ups To Paramount Theatre

Paramount Theatre’s Copley Comedy Series will continue on select Saturday nights through the fall at the Copley Theatre in downtown Aurora. The series, which launched earlier this year and has sold out each performance, features Chicago-based stand-up comedians performing in the venue’s 165-seat space.

Schedule and Lineup

Saturday, July 25 — Headliner Calvin Evans, featuring Luca Ferro, hosted by Tim Benker

Chicago native Calvin Evans began his comedy career while studying Sport Management at the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. He was later named Chicago’s Next Big Comic by WGN, and his half-hour Unprotected Sets special was released in 2020 on EPIX. His debut comedy album B.O.R.N is available on streaming platforms.

Luca Ferro is an Italian-American comedian from Chicago’s South Side, now based in New York City. He has performed at comedy clubs across the country and frequently appears on the Las Vegas Strip. Ferro has opened for Steve Byrne, Adam Ray, and Joe Gatto, and was featured on Nate Bargatze’s NateLand YouTube series.

Saturday, August 22 — Headliner Larry Reeb (“Uncle Lar”), featuring Laura Hugg, hosted by Tim Benken

Larry Reeb, known as “Uncle Lar,” has been voted Chicago Comedian of the Year twice and has won the Las Vegas Comedy Festival and the Dubuque 10K Festival. His credits include Billy Gardell Presents Road Dogs, HBO’s Opening Night at Rodney’s, and NBC’s Last Comic Standing, as well as appearances on The Bob and Tom Radio Show.

Laura Hugg is a Chicago-based stand-up, improv, and sketch comedian. She produces and hosts the Keep Coming Back showcase at the Lincoln Lodge Theater and co-produces the We Are Not A Glum Lot Recovery Comedy Tour and The Laughing Academy Open Mic in Glenview. She is also a cast member of The BABS Babes and GreenRoom Improv.

Saturday, September 26 — Headliner Nick Gaza, featuring Vikram Balaji, hosted by Tim Benker

Nick Gaza’s comedy blends personal stories with dark humor, often drawing from real-life experiences. His television appearances include The Drew Carey Show, Malcolm in the Middle, Becker, and Comedy Central.

Vikram Balaji is an international headliner who has opened for Russell Peters, Dave Attell, and Nick Di Paolo. He has been featured on Dry Bar Comedy and the World Series of Comedy.

Saturday, October 24 — Headliner Tim Cavanaugh, featuring Michelle Krajecki, hosted by Tim Benker

Tim Cavanaugh combines stand-up with musical comedy, performing original songs and interactive material. He is a regular contributor to The Bob and Tom Show and has appeared on ABC, Comedy Central, and Showtime. His special The Joys of UncleDumb is available on Dry Bar Comedy.

Michelle Krajecki, a former teacher, draws from her personal experiences in her stand-up. Her special Accept No Substitute has gained attention online, and she currently tours with Boomer Broads Comedy.

Saturday, November 7 — Headliner Tim Benker, featuring Mike Preston, hosted by Steve Cochran

Tim Benker has performed stand-up nationwide and co-hosted morning radio shows in Las Vegas and Houston. His credits include Zanies Chicago, The Improv, and Catch a Rising Star. He also performs as his musical comedy alter ego “The Very Famous Lance Vegas.”

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