The Second City has announced that it will offer federal workers currently furloughed as a result of the partial government shutdown access to its shows and classes, as well as a free meal.

Begining this friday, federal employees with valid government ID are invited to obtain free tickets to the company’s comedy shows, dinner on the house at 1959 Kitchen & Bar, and participate in free improvisation drop-in classes at The Second City Training Center.

“Improv is an art form that was invented to teach disparate points of view to listen to each other, to respond, to adapt, and to learn from abject failure. While there is no one who could benefit more from the improv experience than our current administration, we instead humbly offer the federal workers affected by the shutdown a chance to come join us,” said The Second City’s CEO and Executive Producer, Andrew Alexander. “It’s a tremendous honor to welcome those who may need a reminder America is still brimming with people looking to take care of each other.” The company has also made a $2000 donation to the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Eligible Second City performances include “Algorithm Nation or The Static Quo” and “The Best of The Second City” on The Second City Mainstage (1616 N. Wells. St.) “Gaslight District” on The Second City’s e.t.c. stage (230 W. North Ave, 2nd floor, Piper’s Alley), “She the People” and the fully-improvised show “After Hours” in UP Comedy Club (230 W. North Ave, 3rd floor, Piper’s Alley). A full list of available showtimes is available at the box office (230 W. North Ave, 1st floor, Piper’s Alley) in person with valid government ID or by calling (312) 337-3992. One ticket is available per ID.

“Improv Test Drive” is the drop-in class being offered. The no-experience-necessary class meets Fridays at 5:30 p.m. and Sundays at 7:00 p.m. Pre-registration is required by calling The Second City Training Center at (312) 337-3992.

1959 Kitchen & Bar, The Second City’s full-service restaurant and bar (2nd floor of Piper’s Alley), is offering a free meal up to a $15 value and a non-alcoholic beverage. For reservations, call (312) 337-3992 or visit opentable.com. Limit one visit per ID.

Yesterday, the Auditorium Theatre also offered tickets to furloughed workers to upcoming shows.