Toronto's premier comedy institution — The Second City has launched the careers of Mike Myers, Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara, Martin Short, Dan Aykroyd, John Candy, Gilda Radner, and countless other Canadian comedy legends. The mainstage revues are sharp, topical sketch comedy followed by an extraordinary improvised set.
Neighbourhood: Entertainment District · Address: 1 York St, Toronto, ON · Hours: Wed–Sun shows | Typically 8pm + 10:30pm Fri–Sat · Price Range: $$ · Phone: (416) 343-0011 · Editorial status: Not yet verified
You’ll see sharp, hilarious sketch revues featuring Canada’s next big comedy stars—then stick around for the late-show improv, where anything goes and no two nights are the same.
The Second City is where some of the biggest names in Canadian and American comedy got their start, so you’re watching the creative ground zero for future SNL and sitcom stars. Unlike other comedy clubs, you get both polished sketch material and a wild, unscripted improv set in one night. The quality control is higher than at most local stand-up joints, with ensembles working together instead of solo acts.
The Second City Toronto is the Canadian branch of the legendary Chicago comedy institution that has launched the careers of virtually every major Canadian comedy star. The alumni list is staggering: Mike Myers, Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara, Martin Short, Dan Aykroyd, John Candy, Gilda Radner, Andrea Martin, and dozens more all performed here before becoming household names. The training centre remains the most respected improv and sketch comedy school in Canada.
The mainstage revues run year-round, with new shows premiering every few months. The format is classic Second City: a series of sharp, topical sketch comedy scenes followed by an extended improvised set based on audience suggestions. The material is consistently strong — the writing teams are experienced, and the cast rotates through the training centre pipeline, meaning fresh talent arrives regularly. The theatre, located in the Entertainment District near the Rogers Centre, is modern and comfortable. For visitors seeking Toronto's comedy culture at its most established and influential, The Second City is the essential destination.
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