In Chicago’s improv comedy scene, there are no mistakes, only creative opportunities. Farrell Walsh, the artistic and managing director of CIC Theater, embraces this philosophy both on stage and in managing the theater. Every setback is an opportunity to reflect on the theater’s direction and determine future steps. Walsh refers to this process as tackling challenges “one disaster at a time.”
“Disaster” may seem like a grand word when discussing a theater dedicated to silliness, but subtlety is not a hallmark of improv comedy.
Over the past few years, Walsh has guided CIC in finding a permanent home after leaving their longtime space at 1422 W. Irving Park Road in 2022. Walsh has been associated with CIC since the early 2000s, beginning as a performer and later becoming artistic director in 2005. Under his leadership, CIC moved to the Irving Park location. Now, he guides the theater in its quest for a new home.
The onset of COVID-19 in 2020 led to significant challenges. During the pandemic, the property owner allowed CIC to pay half the rent, a gesture Walsh credits with sustaining the theater. However, in 2022, new ownership brought uncertainty. A promised new lease never materialized. As the renewal date approached, CIC chose to vacate and return temporarily to a nomadic existence.
In fall 2022, CIC arranged a temporary performance space in Finley Dunne’s Tavern on Lincoln Avenue, a mile from their former Cornservatory home. Performances occurred twice weekly, featuring student teams, guest performers, and open-stage opportunities. Walsh aimed to “keep the fire burning” with this schedule.
Classes continued at a rehearsal space near their previous Irving Park location. Walsh emphasized maintaining classes to foster the community. CIC is seen as an improviser’s theater, focusing on interconnected scenes rather than separate skits.
In November 2025, CIC ended its tenure at Finley Dunne’s and set out to find a more permanent space. The search spanned more than 100 locations, including performance spaces, defunct bars, and even a closed auto repair shop. Challenges included high rents and costly build-outs.
Drawing inspiration from their time at Finley Dunne’s, Walsh sought a venue combining a bar and theater. This search culminated in finding 4301 N. Western Avenue, previously Celtic Crown, featuring a bar, kitchen, and theater space. Walsh, with partner Kyle McCabe, opened The Western Bar & Kitchen, a tavern inspired by Walsh’s Arizona experiences.
Despite the extensive work on the theater space, CIC is eager to reopen its doors to the community. Walsh acknowledges the importance of supporting those who have supported the theater. A GoFundMe campaign raised over $25,000, thanks to local improvisers and supporters like the “Ladies Of Dumpster.”
The theater aims for a grand reopening this fall. Meanwhile, classes continue, and patrons enjoy drinks and meals at The Western. With strong community support, an empty house seems unlikely for Walsh and the CIC team.
Ryan P.C. Trimble is a freelance writer.