Pay-what-you-can shows in Chicago: Theater, comedy & dance on a budget
Whether you’re craving live theater, want to laugh at a comedy club, or feel like dancing in the park, Chicago is full of pay-what-you-can and low-cost options. Bookmark these for quick reference.
Theater
Steppenwolf Theatre – $20 for 20, pay-what-you-will Tuesdays, rush tix
Twenty $20 tickets are available online, in advance, until they’re sold out for every main series show. Limit 2 per person. Use promo code 20FOR20
By phone, call 312-335-1650 on the day-of show at 12pm for main series performances. Limit 2 tickets per person. (They suggest calling as soon as they open and staying on the line until you’re assisted. Calls will be answered in the order received.)
Half-priced rush tickets for main series shows are available on the day of the performance, one hour prior to curtain. Tickets are only available in person at the Box Office, if available. Limit 2 per person.
For every Tuesday performance in their Membership Series productions, Steppenwolf offers ten Pay-What-You-Will tickets. Tickets are first-come, first-serve and can only be purchased in-person at the box office, one hour prior to curtain.
Neo-Futurists – “The Infinite Wrench”
Online, tickets are $20 each, or “pay what you can” (starting at $1). It’s still 30 plays in 60 minutes!
Dance
Chicago SummerDance
An annual city-sponsored event starting in June, Chicago SummerDance offers free dance lessons followed by live music and open dancing in various parks across the city. Learn new dance styles and enjoy live performances for free.
Chicago Tap Theatre – Pay-What-You-Can Classes
Chicago Tap Theatre offers pay-what-you-can options for their tap dance classes. You must contact them directly to discuss flexible payment options.
Comedy
The Second City – “Ten Dollar Comedy”
The Second City offers a weekly showcase called “Ten Dollar Comedy,” featuring improv, stand-up, and sketch performances—all for just $10.
Laugh Factory – First Fridays $5 Tickets
On the first Friday of every month, Laugh Factory in Lakeview offers $5 tickets to their comedy shows, at 7:00, 9:15 & 11:30 PM. You can attend multiple or all of the shows. They feature a mix of established and up-and-coming comedians.
Pro Tip: Many of these venues announce PWYC or discounted events through their newsletters or social media channels. Subscribing or following them can keep you informed about upcoming affordable performances.
