#United States #Chicago #Second City #PLAY #improv

The Second City Launches PLAY: A New Era for Youth Engagement

On June 9, 2026, The Second City made a significant announcement from Chicago and Toronto: the launch of The Second City PLAY, a novel division dedicated to harnessing the power of improvisation for children, families, schools, and communities. This initiative underscores the organization's belief that play is fundamental to learning, fostering creativity, and nurturing social connections.

A Holistic Approach to Creativity

The newly formed PLAY division integrates The Second City's existing youth-focused offerings, including classes, camps, workshops, and family entertainment. This unified brand promises to create a coherent and engaging platform that emphasizes the significance of improvisation in childhood development. As stated by Elizabeth Howard, co-President of The Second City, "Improvisation teaches skills that extend far beyond the stage. It helps young people become stronger collaborators, more confident communicators, and creative problem-solvers."

In its ongoing commitment to foster creativity, empathy, and resilience among young audiences, PLAY aims to not only entertain but also equip participants with essential life skills. Each year, The Second City’s youth programming serves over 5,000 children and teens across North America, providing them with more than 4,200 hours of creative learning experiences.

Expanding Opportunities for Engagement

The launch of PLAY coincides with an expanding roster of youth and family-oriented programming, showcasing The Second City's dedication to community engagement. Among these offerings, the interactive comedy experience titled "No Grown-Ups Allowed" has debuted successfully this spring and looks to feature over 40 performances throughout the summer. Additionally, the Second City Summer Comedy Camps will be welcoming more than 1,500 campers this June across its locations in Chicago, Toronto, and New York, further reinforcing the division’s commitment to creativity and community.

Families, educators, community organizations, and potential partners are encouraged to explore the PLAY landing page to discover programming opportunities and stay updated on upcoming events. The platform aims to foster a supportive environment where young people can discover their unique voices and build meaningful connections with one another.

Conclusion

The Second City’s initiative stands as a testament to the importance of improvisation not just as an art form, but as a crucial educational tool that nurtures essential skills in a fun and engaging manner. By launching PLAY, The Second City proves once again that laughter, creativity, and connection go hand in hand in shaping well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges. With its innovative programming and focus on youth empowerment, PLAY is set to inspire a new generation, helping them thrive both onstage and off.