Who is Mac?

Mac Cherny is a Chicago-based creator who is fueled by crafting and producing work that brings Jewish queer visibility and joy.

He started producing once he began creating his own work. Having come from the professional theater world and the party entertainment industry, he understood what was needed to go into a successful production. Many of the credits below Mac either Produced or co-Produced.

One of his best-known works is his drag persona, Merriam Levkowitz, a Jewish bubbie diva. Merriam originated from his campy original musical Merriam: A Matzah Ballin’ Good Time back in 2017. Since then Merriam has grown and developed into a solo act that has toured around the globe (Chicago, NYC, Boston, and Amsterdam to name a few), hosted drag bingos, galas, fundraisers, and private parties. Currently, Merriam is enjoying her residence at Graystone Tavern hosting drag bingo and Merriam Parties, original immersive shows, to sold-out crowds. Mac's one-person autobiographical play, No Outlet, premiered at Steep Theatre in Chicago in 2019. The show partnered with Wellington Counseling Group and Between Friends Chicago to help tackle and navigate the three central themes: mental health, LGBTQ+ acceptance, and domestic violence. Since its premier, No Outlet has been seen at Stage773, Newport Theater, Mandel JCC, and UConn. As a professional actor Mac has performed in productions at Symphony Hall (Boston), Sharon Playhouse, Ivoryton Playhouse, PrideArts, Connecticut Repertory Theater, Second City, and Annoyance.

Mac is very passionate about education, especially when it comes to the performing arts. He has directed and choreographed youth productions and teaches improv and sketch comedy to adults and children. Outside of the arts, Mac has worked in corporate Learning & Development for over 7 years; developing professionals in networking, industry-specific knowledge, and leadership. His specialty is combining his teaching experiencing in improv with necessary business skills (i.e. active listening or agile teamwork).

Lastly, Mac is a graduate of the Second City Conservatory, Annoyance’s improv program, iO’s Musical Improv program, and has his B.A. in Theatre Studies with a Minor in Puppet Arts, from the University of Connecticut.