Who is Guy F. Wicke?
I'm a Chicago native that has been performing comedy since the turn of the century. Over the years I've appeared in a variety of sketch and improv shows across Chicago, and a handful of comedy festivals across the continent. I've also dabbled in stand-up, and once or twice it was pretty good. I can currently be seen performing short form improv comedy at Laugh Out Loud Theater.
How did I get into PR?
My passion for marketing & public relations can be traced back to performing with a fledgling theater company and looking out at a few too many empty seats. I was seized by a stubborn determination to improve that situation and to help this great group promote itself more effectively. I assumed the position of Marketing Director for the company and spent the following years developing an exciting new skill set. I eventually left that organization and founded Wicke International to assist the theater community at large. Since then, I've promoted events & groups all over Chicagoland and across the country.
Why "Wicke International?"
A joyous nod to my late father's sense of humor. At one point when I was growing up, my parents had invested their savings in the purchase of two apartment buildings and my father, James T. Wicke, became the property manager. The name he gave his modest one-man landlord operation: Wicke International. The letterhead, cards, and pens he created all looked like that of a global corporation. I loved it then, and now I bring the same playful irony to my own business.
Why do I do it?
I enjoy the work. The crafting of the "story" of a show or a group, the thrill of the hunt when pursuing coverage or reviewers, the delivery of results for a hopeful client. I guess it all comes down to being of service to something greater than myself. I have much respect and appreciation for Chicago's comedy & theater community and what their work contributes to the culture of our city. Too often exceptional groups and shows aren't able to get the attention they deserve and when I can help make that happen, it's tremendously rewarding. It may sound corny, but it's true.
They say if you find something you love to do, and someone who'll pay you to do it, you're halfway there.
And maybe I can help you get where you're going too.
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