The Second City, the legendary Chicago comedy theater where many of the world's best comedians get their start, will kickoff Coastal Carolina University's 2001-2002 Cultural Arts Series on Friday, Aug. 24 at 7:30 p.m. in Wheelwright Auditorium. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for students under the age of 18.

Six members of the show's national touring company will perform "The Best of Second City," featuring some of the most famous comedy sketches, songs and improvisations from Second City's 40-plus year history.

Founded in 1959, The Second City is recognized for its unique style of improv-based comedy and as the premier training ground for some of the world's most talented comedic performers. Second City alumni include Mike Myers, Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Martin Short, John Candy, Chris Farley, Gilda Radner, Alan Alda, Joan Rivers, Julia Louis- Dreyfus and many others.

The Second City's emphasis on intelligent satirical sketches and on-the-spot improvisations inspired the TV comedies Saturday Night Live and Whose Line Is it Anyway? as well as the company's own SCTV.

In addition to three touring companies that travel year-round, The Second City has resident theaters in Chicago, Toronto, Detroit and Cleveland.

For more information, contact the Wheelwright Box Office at 349- 2502 or visit The Second City Web site at www.secondcity.com.