Chicago Comedy Show Aims to Make Streets Safer

Creators of 'Safe Streets: The Comedy Show' discuss their goal of using humor to spark change.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A new comedy show in Chicago called 'Safe Streets: The Comedy Show' is using laughter to tackle the serious issue of making the city's streets and sidewalks safer and more pleasant for all users. The show features a mix of sketch comedy and improv, with rotating expert guests discussing transportation and urban planning topics. The creators hope the show will give people the language and inspiration to advocate for positive changes in their communities.

Why it matters

Chicago's streets and transportation infrastructure have long been a source of frustration for residents, with issues like traffic congestion, unsafe conditions for pedestrians and cyclists, and a lack of accessible public transit. This comedy show aims to address these problems in an engaging and thought-provoking way, empowering audience members to get involved in making their city a safer and more livable place.

The details

The show, called 'Safe Streets: The Comedy Show', is the third installment of an ongoing series that uses comedy to explore social issues. The first half features sketch comedy pieces, followed by improv games and discussions with expert guests. The show's creator, Ellen Steinke, says the goal is to give people the tools to advocate for change, even if they don't know where to start. The show's director, Jessico Mitolo, adds that the combination of comedy and important civic topics has led to rich conversations with the cast about local activism and urban planning.

  • The show's opening night was on February 1, 2026.
  • The next show is scheduled for February 15, 2026 at 6 p.m.

The players

Ellen Steinke

The creator of 'Safe Streets: The Comedy Show' and a veteran of Chicago's comedy scene.

Jessico Mitolo

The director of 'Safe Streets: The Comedy Show' and a collaborator with Steinke on using comedy for social change.

Amy Rynell

The executive director of the Active Transportation Alliance, a guest expert on the show.

Nora Leehrsen

The acting president of the Chicago Transit Authority, a guest expert on the February 15 show.

Mike Simmons

An Illinois state senator running for U.S. Congress, a guest expert on the February 15 show.

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What they’re saying

“It's for people who know they want change, but maybe don't have the language for it or know how to go about it.”

— Ellen Steinke, Show Creator (streetsblog.org)

“Ellen and I are both curious about and committed to using comedy to spark social change, and this show is a great example of how that can be done.”

— Jessico Mitolo, Show Director (streetsblog.org)

What’s next

The next show in the 'Safe Streets: The Comedy Show' series is scheduled for February 15, 2026 at 6 p.m. and will feature guests from the Chicago Transit Authority and the Illinois state legislature.

The takeaway

By using comedy to tackle the serious issues of transportation and urban planning, the creators of 'Safe Streets: The Comedy Show' are providing Chicagoans with a unique and engaging way to learn about and get involved in making their city a safer and more livable place for all.