What is improv?

Improv (or improvisation, if you want to be formal about it) is a performance art form where “players” or improvisers go out on stage without a script and create something surprising, hilarious, and fun, right in front of your eyes! Many times it involves participation from the audience, usually just a simple one-word suggestion.

Oh, so like “Whose Line is it Anyway?”

Mmmm, yes and no. “Whose Line” employs short-form improv, which is a series of games designed to spark quick, funny responses. Some of our shows employ short form games, but we focus primarily on long-form improv.

Okay, if it’s not “short form” then what is it?

It’s about creating theater… with characters, relationships, and situations… on the fly… based on an audience suggestion.  No two shows are ever alike! Most “sets” (shows) last about 25 minutes and can be comprised of many interrelated scenes (and sometimes songs and dances!). Patterns will naturally begin to emerge and the end result is...magic!

What's the best show to see?

There are as many answers to that as there are shows and comedy teams! Your best bets overall are the Friday and Saturday shows at 8pm. We have Finest City Improv "house teams" (aka "pro" teams) that typically play at those times. Look for the shows Deep Dish, Found Family, Willis, Fjordache, House Boat, One Tree Hillcrest, and Bankers Kill.  

Can I get involved? I'm pretty funny.

If you have improv experience you can join us on Thursdays for our OPEN JAM!  Or, if you want to learn, we have an entire series of improv classes plus one-time workshops for more experienced performers. We also host some stand-up shows and have open mics every other week.