CIC Theater’s Journey to a Stable Home

Improv comedy thrives on spontaneity and turning challenges into creative opportunities. This philosophy guides Farrell Walsh, the artistic and managing director of CIC Theater in Chicago. For Walsh, every obstacle is an opportunity to evaluate the theater’s direction and future. As he puts it, handling challenges is about addressing them “one disaster at a time.”

Walsh’s vision extends beyond the stage, impacting the theater he manages. CIC Theater emphasizes humor and community spirit over subtlety. For the past three years, Walsh has focused on finding a permanent space for CIC after leaving their long-time location at 1422 W. Irving Park Road in 2022. He first joined CIC in the early 2000s, initially as a performer and later as artistic director. Under his leadership, the theater moved to Irving Park, where it remained for over a decade before the pandemic hit.

The arrival of COVID-19 in 2020 posed significant challenges. The theater’s landlord reduced rent, which helped during that period. However, in 2022, new landlords took over, initially showing willingness to maintain the reduced rent. But as renewal time approached, no agreement had been reached, leading CIC to adopt a nomadic existence, reminiscent of its early years.

CIC found a temporary home at Finley Dunne’s Tavern on Lincoln Avenue in late 2022. Here, performances occurred twice weekly, featuring student teams, guest performers, and open-stage nights for aspiring improvisers. This setup helped maintain community ties.

Classes continued nearby, nurturing the close-knit CIC community. Though not as widely recognized as iO or The Second City, CIC focuses on “playing vertically,” where scenes inspire subsequent ones, forming a cohesive performance.

In November 2025, CIC sought a new venue after leaving Finley Dunne’s. The search included over 100 potential spaces, ranging from former theaters to closed auto repair shops. Challenges included high rents and expensive build-outs.

Eventually, Walsh found 4301 N. Western Avenue, formerly the Celtic Crown. It was a suitable blend of bar and theater, featuring a kitchen and theater space. In collaboration with partner Kyle McCabe, Walsh opened The Western Bar & Kitchen in July 2025, inspired by his time in Arizona.

CIC is working on the theater spaces, aiming to reconnect with its community. A GoFundMe campaign exceeded its $25,000 goal, demonstrating strong support. The theater hopes to host a grand opening soon.

While challenges remain, including preparing for the opening, the community’s support suggests the theater’s future remains promising.