Boom Chicago Amsterdam
Boom Chicago is a comedy theater in Amsterdam, known for its improvisation shows and satirical take on current events. The theater was founded in 1993 by American comedians Pep Rosenfeld and Andrew Moskos, who fell in love with Amsterdam while traveling in Europe and decided to stay and start a comedy show.
At the time, the idea of an English-language comedy show in Amsterdam was met with skepticism from the local authorities, who told them it would never work. However, Rosenfeld and Moskos persisted and started their comedy show at the small theater Iboya, just around the corner from the Leidseplein.
Boom Chicago quickly gained a following, introducing improvisation comedy to a mainstream Dutch audience and challenging them with satirical takes on current events. The theater has since grown into an influential and innovative international theater company, known for its unique brand of comedy and talent for discovering and nurturing new talent.
Over the years, Boom Chicago has produced numerous successful shows and toured extensively in Europe and the United States. The theater has also launched the careers of many successful comedians, including Seth Meyers, Jordan Peele, and Jason Sudeikis.
In 2018, Boom Chicago celebrated its 25th anniversary with a big birthday party in the Royal Theater Carré, featuring a performance by Seth Meyers and a show by Boom Chicago and Friends, featuring former Boom comedians like Meyers, his brother Josh Meyers, and Ike Barinholtz, as well as Dutch comedy friends like Ruben van der Meer and Horace Cohen.
In addition to its shows, Boom Chicago has also written a funny book titled “The 25 Most Important Years in Dutch History”, which offers a humorous take on life in the Netherlands over the past quarter century. The theater continues to innovate in and out of the theater, and remains a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a good laugh in Amsterdam.
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FAQ's
I have bought tickets but don't feel well. What shall I do?
Please, do not come out if you or anyone in your house is sick. Email hello@boomchicago.nl and we will send you a gift certificate to reschedule your visit.
What is Boom Chicago?
Boom Chicago is a creative ensemble that has been making comedy shows in Amsterdam since 1993. Many people also refer to the show and the venue as Boom Chicago.
What time should we arrive?
It is smart to arrive 30-60 minutes before showtime. Then you can have a drink in the bar, and get seated in plenty of time. Arrive at least 15 minutes before showtime. If you arrive late, we will seat you in (probably) worse seats.
How long is the show?
Usually shows are about two hours with an intermission. Sunday Night Live is shorter and usually one act (no intermission). Find more info on each show page.
We have two separate reservations and someone is coming late. Can we sit together?
Sure. Tell our host when you go in the theater. We all have that friend who is late.
Do we sit at a table?
Sort of. In the main theater, you don’t reserve a table, but each seat is near a table. Generally, six seats share a table, even though everyone sits in rows. VIB seats are more comfortable and generally are four to a table. The Upstairs Theater does not have tables.
How do we order drinks?
Before the show, order drinks by the pitcher, bucket, bottle, or glass. Buckets of ice keep things cool. Bring your drinks in the theater. There is additional drink service from waiters during the show. We do not accept cash at Boom Chicago.
Is there a coat check?
There is an unguarded coat check in the bar where you may hang your jackets (at your risk). You may also bring your coats and bags into the theater. Please keep an eye on your valuables as we are not responsible for things lost or damaged.
Will you make fun of me in the show?
Dutch people, relax. Our intention is not to make anyone look bad. The show is improvised so we need you to shout out smart suggestions and feel safe to do that. Occasionally we will interview someone at random. This is good news. That means we will make a scene, character or song about you. Get out your phones to record it. This is like sitting in an exit row on the plane without paying extra!
