Chicago’s famed comedy improv troupe, The Second City, will begin its summer residency at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre this week. The press opening will be June 15 at 8 PM. Regular performances begin June 16, and will run until September 3.

Over these twelve weeks, three different Second City national touring troupes will be in residence at the Metropolis Performing Arts Center. Keeping with their 40-year traditions, the group will perform their “Best of Second City” sketches, as well as new improvisation material.

The performances on June 22 and August 24 are benefit shows. Sponsored by the Twelve Nights Foundation, these performances will raise funds for nonprofit organizations in Chicago’s northwest suburbs. The June 22 show benefits PADS and Hope Now, Inc. All tickets are $100. Call Lou Walton at (847) 342-0739 for tickets. The August 24 benefit show will benefit the Kenneth Young Center in Elk Grove Village. Contact Matt Personette at (847) 524-8807 ext. 191 for ticket information.

The Second City Training Center at Metropolis is also holding sessions for beginner, advanced and high-school level classes. Check out their website for details, at www.secondcity.com. Registration starts June 19 for classes starting July 31.

After the summer schedule, the group will return to perform The Second City’s Dysfunctional Holiday Revue from December 7-31. The show consists of the improv masters satirizing traditional holiday festivities. Tickets are $15 for the summer and winter shows. The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre is located at 111 West Campbell in Arlington Heights. For tickets, call the Metropolis box office at (847) 577-2121. by Daniel Fischer