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Improv shows in New York

The thrill of a scene being built from nothing in the moment is addictive. Stepping into a room where the script is written by the audience is the only way to clear the head.

Based on 542 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Performing arts theater

Performing arts theater offers character-based improv with a structured curriculum that builds skills through practical rules and group exercises. The atmosphere is friendly and supportive, fostering a tight-knit community focused on creativity and connection. Classes balance team bonding with playful learning, culminating in low-pressure performances that encourage growth.

Classes and shows offer a fun, safe, and growth-oriented environment. Instructors are warm and professional, making the experience both accessible and valuable for thinking faster on the fly.

Training focuses on listening, rhythm, and relaxing self-consciousness through group exercises. Shows feature talented performers with strong energy, and the community embraces a welcoming, character-driven approach to improv.

People are saying

"This improv is the best I've experienced in NYC."

"It's a blast and super worth it for fun activities."

Good to know

1

Improvolution offers level 1 and level 2 improv classes for beginners.

2

The instructors are warm and professional, creating a supportive learning environment.

3

Classes focus on character improv, enhancing creativity and playfulness.

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BATSU! image 1
Comedy club

Enjoy high-energy improv in an intimate Japanese-themed room with interactive crowd participation. Experience a lively vibe with surprises like a Sake Ninja and chances for dancing and sake shots throughout the night.

Entertainment features elements of surprise and unpredictability with high energy hosts who bring culture, comedy, and intellect to the show. The atmosphere stays lively and hilarious throughout.

An immersive blend of high-energy improv and audience participation creates a unique comedy experience. The show mixes a Japanese gameshow style with sharp improv performances.

People are saying

"It's so fun and hilarious, I was laughing so much!"

"This sake is creative, fun, and unpredictable."

"The improv here is hilarious and the performers are quick."

Good to know

1

Make sure to book in advance, the tickets go fast.

2

Batsu! has a strict no-late-entry policy, so arrive on time to avoid missing the show.

3

Tickets for Batsu! can sell out quickly, so it's advisable to book in advance.

03
Young Ethel's image 1

Cozy bar with a quirky decor and a spacious back room hosting live music, comedy, and open mic events. Atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly, welcoming local talent and creating good vibes. Frequented by locals, it offers a stage-focused venue with a casual, inviting energy.

Comedy, improv, and music nights fill the schedule with lively entertainment. Trivia nights bring a mix of challenge and fun, while the back room offers a relaxed space with couches and a stage for open mics and performances.

Shows feature fun comedy, improv, and music. Performances focus on spontaneous scenes and audience interaction.

People are saying

"This bar has a back room for comedy and other performances."

"I saw great comedy and improv shows in the back."

"I enjoyed the improv shows here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available at the venue.

2

The comedy show takes place on Tuesdays at 9 PM.

3

The bar has shows many nights of the week.

04
Drunk Shakespeare image 1
Performing arts theater

Enjoy intimate stage surrounded by bookshelves with live entertainment full of laughs. Actors deliver sharp comedic timing blending improv and Shakespeare with raunchy humor. Convenient drink service adds to the lively, immersive experience.

Live entertainment offers a night full of laughs and fun. The experience feels like a great value for an evening of engaging performances.

Incredible energy and charisma drive the cast as they blend improv with classic Shakespeare. The show features raunchy humor, impressions, and spontaneous comedy that fits well for those familiar with Macbeth.

People are saying

"It's a really fun time with lots of laughter."

"The setting felt so close and intimate, unlike any other show."

"The improv here is hilarious and unforgettable."

Good to know

1

The show starts at 7pm on 7/25.

2

Bidding on the king and queen spot is highly recommended.

3

Getting third row tickets provides a good view and your own bar stool and table.

05
Magnet Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Cozy theater offers ensemble improv with live musical accompaniment in a warm, intimate space. Shows deliver hilarious fun moments and keep energy high for a great time. Performances by groups like SECRET SECRET feel almost magical and showcase unique, talented comedy.

Shows deliver hilarious fun moments with a fun atmosphere throughout. Performances keep the energy high and guarantee a fun time.

Musical improv shows feature few stumbles and feel almost magical. Teams like SECRET SECRET and the Armando Experience deliver unique, incredibly talented, and very funny performances.

People are saying

"I thought the improv shows here were genuinely funny and well worth it."

"I discovered this great local spot for improv performances."

"The shows here are hilarious and a great time."

Good to know

1

The venue only accepts cash or Venmo, and does not accept credit or debit cards.

2

The ticket price is eight dollars for four hours of performances.

3

Tickets and drinks at Magnet are affordable.

06
Caveat image 1
Event venue

Underground venue offers intimate seating and a popcorn seasoning bar for a cosy, lively vibe. Enjoy fresh improv shows by groups like Ratscraps Improv and And Scene. Affordable drinks and round tables make it a fun communal spot for comedy fans.

Comedy and live shows feature fresh, hilarious entertainment with a fun communal audience setup. Drink prices stay shockingly affordable for an entertainment venue.

Funny improv happens regularly in a charming underground venue with many rotating shows. Groups like Ratscraps Improv and And Scene perform fantastic improv and sketch comedy here.

People are saying

"I found it to be a fun and creative place with unconventional shows."

"It's a super cool underground space with a fun vibe."

"I was laughing so hard during the improv show, I spat out my drink."

Good to know

1

The Parlor show is on Thursdays at 7.

2

You need to bring I.D. to attend events.

3

Mobile ordering is available for some shows.

07
The Second City New York image 1

Comedy club features two soundproof theaters and a central bar with high ceilings, creating an open and social environment. Shows blend polished sketch and improv with intimate audience participation, making performances feel personal and lively. Seating offers great views throughout, supporting a comfortable and engaging experience.

Comedy shows feature clever sketches and unique cast flair that make performances fun to watch. The energy matches the lively vibe found in Chicago's comedy scene.

Shows feature sharp, quick-witted performers delivering hilarious sketches and improv. Lighting, props, and costumes create a full-fledged production feel. Drop-in classes offer chances to learn from phenomenal instructors.

People are saying

"I had a blast at the hilarious comedy shows here."

"The bar's magical atmosphere vibrates with creative energy."

"I had a blast at their super talented improv shows."

Good to know

1

Ticket prices for the Second City shows are very reasonable for a night out in the city.

2

Students receive a 35% discount at the restaurant.

3

The Saturday night show lasts nearly 3 hours with a unique format.

08
The PIT image 1
Comedy club

Small, intimate improv theater offers a welcoming atmosphere with a positive, encouraging vibe that supports creativity and vulnerability. The space hosts avant-garde performances and classes led by talented instructors who foster a strong sense of community.

A graduation show gets professionally recorded and shared with students. The Joy of Improv class offers a fun, no-pressure way to be silly and creative, even in front of coworkers.

Classes focus on creativity and silliness with no stakes involved, led by experienced improv professionals. Shows include audience suggestions and musical numbers, blending comedy and improv seamlessly.

People are saying

"I had a blast in the improv class; the teachers were encouraging."

"You'll have so much fun and laugh a lot here."

"The improv shows here are top-notch and really funny."

Good to know

1

The show started 30 minutes late, so plan accordingly.

2

The venue is not accessible for disabled people.

3

The March Madness improv tournament tickets cost $10 each.

09
Brooklyn Comedy Collective (BCC) @ Eris image 1

Comedy club offers a welcoming vibe with a warm atmosphere that encourages playfulness and connection. Shows and classes foster laughter and shared experiences, creating a safe and positive environment for both newcomers and regulars.

Shows deliver great entertainment and fun experiences. Exercises bring out a playful energy and connect people.

Shows feature improv, stand-up, and sketch comedy. Improv acts feel like unscripted public speaking with a casual, high school talent show vibe.

People are saying

"These fun activities helped me connect with my playful side."

"This Improv show felt like friends putting on a talent show."

Good to know

1

Classes are available for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced.

2

Tickets for shows can be purchased online or at the door.

3

Expect a diverse lineup of performers every weekend.

10
Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre image 1

Larger-than-expected theater space offers comfortable seating and hosts diverse, rehearsed comedy performances featuring sketch and improv. Shows attract full audiences with reasonable ticket prices and no drink minimums, creating an accessible and lively atmosphere.

Improv shows offer great entertainment that stays affordable. The venue's layout feels like a maze, adding a unique twist to the fun atmosphere.

Shows feature UCB style improv with smooth, funny performances. Improv musicals like Baby Wants Candy and Asssssscat highlight brilliant comedy and keep the audience engaged throughout.

People are saying

"The improv here had me laughing in tears the entire time."

"The performing arts here are hilariously funny and outstanding."

"I thought the improv shows here were a lot of fun."

Good to know

1

The UCB theater is back open for shows after the pandemic.

2

The cost of attending the new UCB theater is super reasonable.

3

Some local bars offer discounts for people who attended UCB shows.

11
Stage 42 image 1
Performing arts theater

Small, modern theater offers intimate seating and cozy atmosphere. Shows mix interactive fun with audience participation and D&D themes. Improv shines with a skilled mage and DM, though some roles feel uneven.

The show offers interactive fun with audience participation and improvisation by the cast. It engages everyone, even those new to D&D, making it a unique and enjoyable experience.

Shows blend Dungeons & Dragons with improv, featuring characters like a mage and DM who handle improv well. Some performers struggle with their roles, making the experience uneven.

People are saying

"It's a super fun and interactive show with great audience engagement."

"The performing arts here feel intimate, with great views from every seat."

"The D&D improv show had a great mix of DnD and improv."

Good to know

1

Even the cheapest seats will still have a great view.

2

The bar is small and only accepts cash.

3

There is paid parking available across the street from the theater.

12
Broadway Comedy Club image 1

Underground basement space with a dark brutalist design and cramped seating creates an intense, packed atmosphere. Comedians deliver hilarious performances supported by a great sound system and perfect air conditioning. Crowds share small tables, enhancing a lively but noisy vibe.

Entertainment includes a Magic Show and Broadway Comedy Club that offer fun and affordable experiences. The vibe suits a feel-good night with great entertainment.

Shows include musical improv, audience-friendly performances, and Sport Comedy. Improv runs on Saturdays, Sundays, and some weekdays with both daytime and evening sessions.

People are saying

"The nightlife here is hilarious; the comedians kept the whole room laughing."

"I had a super fun night out with the hilarious comedians."

"I found the Improv show to be extremely funny and musical."

Good to know

1

There is a 2 drink minimum at the comedy club.

2

Arrive 30 minutes before the start time as it becomes packed quickly.

3

The club automatically adds 25% gratuity to your bill in tiny text.

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