Forum Talks

Learning Democracy Through Laughter

What can comedy teach us about democracy? Bill Nye, Keegan-Michael Key, and Sophie Shrand explore learning through humor. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Event Details
Fri, Aug 28 • 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Elie Wiesel Auditorium
Admission
Tickets are $40. Please note that your ticket purchase does not include Museum admission. Please bring your confirmation email with your digital ticket(s).
Get Tickets
4 people sit in chairs on the stage of the auditorium

Details

Humor has long helped people make sense of complex ideas, spark curiosity, and encourage conversation. This panel explores how comedy, storytelling, and technology have expanded civic learning beyond the classroom, helping audiences engage with democracy in new ways.

Together, the speakers will share how creative, light-hearted approaches can make serious topics more accessible while inspiring critical thinking and civic participation.

Speakers

  • Bill Nye headshot

    Bill Nye

    Bill Nye is a science educator, engineer, author, and television presenter best known as the Emmy Award-winning host of Bill Nye the Science Guy. A leading advocate for scientific literacy, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2025 and has inspired generations through science education and public engagement.

  • Keegan-Michael Key headshot

    Keegan-Michael Key

    Keegan-Michael Key is an Emmy, Peabody, and Webby Award-winning actor, writer, and producer. Best known as the co-creator and star of Key & Peele, he has appeared in acclaimed film, television, and theater productions while earning recognition for his work across comedy, drama, and voice acting.

  • Sophie Shrand headshot

    Sophie Shrand

    Sophie Shrand is a science comedian, STEM educator, filmmaker, and creator of Science With Sophie, a comedy series reaching more than two million learners worldwide. A former museum educator and Second City alum, her work has been featured by NPR, Scholastic, National Geographic Kids, and PBS.

Plan Your Visit

Elie Wiesel Auditorium

From the Parking Garage: Follow the signs toward Campus/Plaza. Exit the parking garage and follow the walking path toward the Plaza. Continue through the breezeway between the Chicago Public Library and Forum, and turn right once you reach the Plaza. Follow signs into the Forum’s main entrance and make a slight left to reach the Auditorium. From the Plaza: Follow signs into the Forum’s main entrance and make a slight left to reach the Auditorium.

A map of Elie Wiesel Auditorium
Good to Know

Explore helpful resources regarding transportation, accessibility services, and on-site amenities before you arrive.

More Forum Talks

Explore Forum Talks
  • A plated slider with fries is served at a table, highlighting a small bite from a culinary event.

    Food and the American Story

    Sat, Aug 22

    Hear from accomplished chefs and leaders, then try dishes that reflect how food shapes identity, place, and community.

    View Event Details