h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

The last time I went to Amsterdam (that's almost two years ago)I heard a lot about a theatre group/ comedy show/ ?? called, if I'm not mistaken, Chicago Boom. (BTW they publish a very sympathetic and informative city guide - that's how I learned about them.) It sounded interesting - has anyone been to their shows? Is it worth it, or was that just self-praise? (I am toying with the thought of going to Amsterdam this summer, and it seems you have to book tickets rather in advance)

When I lived in Amsterdam (1995) I caught a Chicago Boom show. I remember enjoying it. It was sketch-comedy and song, and I remember it being a fun time. I think I ate a pizza while there. There was a lot of sketches showing the clash of American and Amsterdam (not neccisarrily Dutch) culture. I also remember after the show there being a second show of stand-up comedy and I think there might have been an additional cover charge for that, but I don't remember.

I've never been to Boom Chicago (as it is called), but saw some recordings of it on television. And I have to advice you to be sure there's an English speaking comedian on. Apart from that: it's fun.

Also, a few years ago the Boom Chicago theatre has moved to the Leidseplein.

The Chicago Boom was still in full swing (as of Summer last year) at a theatre (as mentioned above) in the Leidseplein. The format is that of a comedy revue. They were a bunch of US students who visited Amsterdam for a break and decided to set up shop.

Despite the fact that most of them have been there for many years, the comedy is still from the perspective of a visitor to Amsterdam. This makes it a good place to learn some local ways and places while having a laugh along the way.

They produce a free magazine a few times a year with a lean but highly informative and relevant city guide.