Celebrating 65 Years of Laughter at The Second City
The Second City, an iconic comedy institution, is marking a major milestone: 65 years of entertaining audiences with laughter. To celebrate this impressive journey, they recently announced the winner of a special anniversary art contest, calling on local artists to reflect on The Second City's influence on the world of comedy.
Meet Alexandra Bolton: The Art Contest Winner
Chicago-based illustrator and writer, Alexandra Bolton, has emerged as the winner of this competitive contest. Her creative design, which captures the essence of The Second City, will be prominently featured on exclusive, limited-edition merchandise available at The Second City's box office this fall. This announcement has sparked excitement among fans and supporters of local arts.
Highlights of Alexandra's Winning Artwork
Bolton's artwork features The Second City's iconic chair—an emblem of improv and a sign of inclusivity within the comedy community. She expressed that the chair symbolizes an open invitation, representing hope for a more inclusive future in comedy. Additionally, her design includes the number 65 rendered in The Second City’s signature font, celebrating both its rich history and the bright future that lies ahead.
Shining a Spotlight on Artistic Talent in Chicago
A dedicated artist since 2017, Alexandra Bolton has made her mark in Chicago's vibrant art scene, working with beloved venues like The Music Box Theatre and The Annoyance. Currently, she serves as the art director and news producer for Fresh Hell, showcasing her diverse skills and commitment to enriching Chicago’s arts culture.
The Future of The Second City
The Second City’s art director, Alexis LeBlanc, expressed immense pride in Bolton's design, emphasizing how it reflects both the institution's esteemed legacy and its forward-looking aspirations. The theater has always prioritised empowering the next generation of comedy performers, and projects like this art contest highlight that dedication.
Rewards for Creative Excellence
Alexandra will receive a monetary award of $500, plus the esteemed opportunity to showcase her artwork on t-shirts. Proceeds from the sale of these t-shirts will contribute to supporting The Second City’s ongoing artistic initiatives, ensuring that the spirit of comedy continues to flourish.
About The Second City
Founded in 1959, The Second City has grown from a small comedy cabaret into a respected name in improvisation and comedic performance. Now, celebrating 65 years of operations, it serves not only as a training ground for future comedic talent but also as a center for corporate education through its Second City Works program. The Second City remains committed to nurturing creativity and growth, shaping the journeys of countless aspiring comedians and artists over the years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Second City?
The Second City is a well-known comedy organization celebrated for its improvisational theater and significant contributions to the comedy landscape since 1959.
Who won The Second City’s 65th Anniversary Art Contest?
The contest was won by Alexandra Bolton, a talented Chicago-based illustrator and writer, who crafted a creative design that features The Second City's iconic chair and the number 65.
What will happen with the merchandise featuring Bolton’s design?
Merchandise featuring Bolton’s design, including t-shirts, will be sold exclusively at The Second City's box office this fall.
How did Alexandra Bolton become involved in the art scene?
Bolton has actively participated in Chicago’s art community since 2017, collaborating with various local venues and currently working as an art director for Fresh Hell.
What are The Second City’s future plans?
The Second City aims to keep fostering new comedic talent and supporting the arts through initiatives like art contests and training programs.
