Laughter can be undeniably infectious. Some health experts contend that laughter can be like medicine, a perfect remedy for stress, tension, and pain. Whether looking for an immune boost or simply a venue to have a good time, Riddles Comedy Club (myriddlescomedyclub.com), located at 6910 W Windsor Avenue in Berwyn’s Depot District, aims to bring both with the grand opening of its new entertainment spot. The club held a ribbon cutting celebration on November 1 in partnership with the Berwyn Development Corporation (BDC) and opened on Friday, November 2 with headliner Jimmy “J.J.” Walker of Good Times fame.
The BDC recruited Riddles to fill the Depot District’s need for a live entertainment venue. Through the support of the City of Berwyn and the BDC, Ken Stevens received Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for interior build-out and façade work on the 6,812 sq. ft. vacant commercial space. The TIF scope of work included demolition and interior renovation including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, carpentry, front façade, fire sprinkler and system, insulation, architectural design and signage.
Mayor Robert Lovero said, “We’ve been waiting for an attraction like Riddles to come to the City of Berwyn, especially in our downtown Depot District for many years. This club brings new energy to our City.” Jon Fey, BDC Board President, continued, “Riddles is a brilliant addition to the Depot District for both our residents and as an attraction to our neighbors. The BDC has participated with developing this space, and we’re very excited to have it open.” Ken Stevens followed, “This project has come together very nicely. I’m excited to be in Berwyn because I love where the City of Berwyn is headed and I’m happy to be part of it.”
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Riddles hosts two comedy shows with local and nationally known comedians on Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:00 pm and 10:30 pm. Shows typically run 90 minutes with three comedians. November shows include performances from Al Del Bene, Marc ''Skippy" Price, and WGN favorite Ken Severa and Joey Villagomez. Riddles also hosts open mic nights on Mondays and Tuesdays and karaoke on Wednesdays and Thursdays. In addition to a full bar, the venue has large screen televisions, pool tables and video games.
Riddles owner Ken Stevens started his career in entertainment as the general manager of the Catch a Rising Star comedy club located in the Hyatt Regency in downtown Chicago. In 1990, Ken went on to open his first club in Orland Park, which relocated to Alsip three years ago. The new Berwyn venue is the second location of Riddles Comedy Club. Situated next door to Olive or Twist Restaurant & Martini Bar, Riddles plans to develop dinner and show packages with its neighbor. With seating for 160 guests, the club can accommodate bachelorette and bachelor parties, birthday gatherings, and office parties.
Additional information on the Riddles Grand Opening can be obtained through the BDC by calling (708) 788-8100.
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About Riddles Comedy Club
Established in 1990, Riddles Comedy Club has locations in Alsip and Berwyn, IL. Comics who have performed at Riddles include Richard Jeni, Larry Miller, Ellen DeGeneres, Drew Carey, George Lopez, Martin Lawrence, Gabe Kaplan, Louie Anderson, Dom Irrera, Jeff Dunham, Jimmy “JJ” Walker, Tom Dreesen, and Paul Rodriguez. For more information, visit myriddlescomedyclub.com or follow Riddles on Facebook and Twitter.
About the Berwyn Development Corporation
The Berwyn Development Corporation (BDC) is a public-private partnership with the City of Berwyn that provides economic development and Chamber of Commerce services to all segments of the Berwyn community. The BDC is a not-for-profit membership organization that serves over 300 business and individual members. The BDC focuses its efforts on those activities that will improve the overall climate for local businesses and residents, in addition to encouraging the development of new commercial venues and employment opportunities. The BDC continually strives to develop new programs, services and events that promote Berwyn businesses and the community. For more information, visit www.berwyn.net or follow the BDC at facebook.com/BDCorp and twitter.com/bdc_berwyn.
