Charna Halpern

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Charna Halpern (born June 1, 1952) is an American comedian, improv teacher, and writer who co-founded the IO Theater with Del Close.

Early life: She was born in Chicago, Illinois. She graduated from Southern Illinois University in 1974 with a degree in English and Speech, then worked at a juvenile delinquency school.

Career: After college, Halpern moved back to Dixon, Illinois, where she worked for a McDonald’s owned by her father and helped promote the franchise, which led to a radio job. In 1981 she met Del Close, and together they ran competitive improv events under the IO banner and helped develop a long-form improv style based on Close’s Harold. In 1995 they opened a more permanent location near Wrigley Field; IO West opened in Los Angeles in 1997. After Close’s death, the theater faced financial difficulties and debt, including a $100,000 property tax bill.

COVID-19 and reopening: The IO Theater closed in 2020 due to the pandemic and protests for racial justice, and it reopened on November 3, 2022.

Controversies: The theater and Halpern have faced criticism, including accusations of racism and a harassment claim against a director. In 2020 Halpern listed the building for sale.