Joyce Sloane, known as the “Mother of the Second City” famed comedy club and school has passed away. For anyone who knew, worked with, for or around Joyce — she will be dearly remembered and sorely missed. She has meant so much to so many. When I was poor and stupid, Joyce made sure I could eat. Our thoughts and love are with her daughter Cheryl and grandson, thank you for sharing your mother with us all. Here are a few brief words from Andrew Alexander, the Second City’s executive producer:
“Joyce Sloane’s impact on the Chicago theatre community cannot be measured. She nurtured thousands of young performers-she encouraged them, fed them, even housed them when needed. She was the mother of The Second City and she cannot be replaced. The loss is monumental but Joyce Sloane’s legacy carries on forever in the work of the artists of whom she was so proud.”
“Joyce Sloan: Mother of Second City dead at 80” (Chicago Tribune)