After receiving an 'anonymous tip' this past Sunday, the Bastion confirmed with ChUC co-creator Tony Sam that Gunther Murphy's has indeed been sold and will be receiving a facelift under new management beginning in December.

Regulars of Tuesday nights at Chicago Underground Comedy understand that the loss of Gunther Murphy's as the showcase's home is a very sad one. The venue had the perfect proportions for an alternative stand-up showcase: an accommodating management and staff, and a jovial energy that permeated the front room, where audience and performers would gather to swap stories, share shop talk, and meet each other over $2 domestic bottles. Sometimes the stale pretzels on the tables would become launched weapons, and full-on pretzel wars would break out, but only sometimes (on the best nights). Love was made, hearts were broken... sufficed to say, the loss of Gunther Murphy's will have an impact on those that have called it home every Tuesday night for more than a year.

We have encouraging news coming from Tony, though. November 28 is the last scheduled night of ChUC at Gunther Murphy's, featuring scheduled performers Brendan McGowan, Hannah Gansen, Mike and Duane, Sam Fels, and CJ Sullivan. Tony told us, "We may have one farewell show there. Right now it is the last show. I am already in talks to move the show. This new incarnation will be better, in a better venue. I think this is a good thing."

We're excited to welcome ChUC to their new home next month, and to say goodbye in style to the good people of Gunther Murphy's at the end of this one.