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Improv shows

A night spent watching live improv and supporting the local performing arts.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Performing arts theater

Small historic theater offers an intimate atmosphere with comfortable reclining seats and customizable popcorn toppings. The venue hosts improv and comedy shows with a lively house band adding musical cues. Every seat provides a good view, creating a cozy and engaging experience.

Shows feature talented improv performers alongside standup and sketch acts. Lineups include varied comedy and music, with some troops performing regularly. Hosts and guest monologists add unique elements to the hilarious improv performances.

Shows feature standup, sketch specials, and live comedy musicals with some of the best comics in the area. The historic theater offers comfortable seating and hosts unexpectedly high-quality performances in a quaint, retro setting.

People are saying

"It's such an intimate place, making you feel part of the show."

"This small theater is so fun and intimate."

"I saw some of the best improv I've encountered in over 20 years."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $14 in the garage behind the theater.

2

Tickets are non-transferable and require ID at the door.

3

The venue is very disabled friendly, accommodating various needs.

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WE Improv image 1
Comedy club

Intimate basement stage hosts a supportive, inclusive community focused on learning and creativity. The atmosphere is welcoming and joyful, encouraging participation and growth in improv. Classes and shows emphasize positive reinforcement and offer ample stage time for all skill levels.

Classes focus on simplifying complex concepts and pushing for more practice and stage time. The community feels supportive, fun, and inclusive, welcoming both beginners and experienced improvisers.

A well-designed curriculum uses mnemonics and visual aids to boost team play and high-percentage moves. The improv theater offers a strong community and engaging performances.

People are saying

"I found the Improv community here to be so safe and welcoming."

"The workshops here foster such a joyful and supportive community."

"This performing arts experience changed my life and expanded what I thought I was capable of."

Good to know

1

WE Improv hosts shows several nights a week, providing frequent entertainment options.

2

Classes at WE Improv are small, usually around 8 students, ensuring personalized attention.

3

Each class includes multiple opportunities to perform live in front of an audience.

03
JEST Improv image 1
Performing arts group

Improv group offers live, unscripted comedy in an intimate, cozy space with relaxing lighting. Atmosphere stays welcoming and inclusive, fostering a no ego zone where people feel safe to play and be themselves.

Classes offer a fun and inclusive environment to practice improv skills. Shows deliver hilarious comedy with laughs and surprises in an intimate setting.

JEST Improv creates a safe space to play and express yourself. Performers consistently support and build on each other's ideas.

People are saying

"I found it to be a fun and affirming environment."

"I couldn't stop laughing during the hilarious Improv show."

"The Performing Arts teachers are so patient and fun!"

Good to know

1

JEST Improv has shows almost every weekend.

2

The venue is super affordable with fair pricing for shows.

3

Reservations are recommended for weekend shows due to popularity.

04
Westside Comedy Theater image 1

Intimate comedy theater with a cozy setting and relaxed bar vibe creates a friendly atmosphere. Shows feature dynamic improv and a mix of well-known and emerging comedians. Affordable and social, the venue encourages early arrival due to its small size and lively crowd.

Shows feature skilled improv groups delivering fun and laughs. Classes offer well structured beginner lessons and jam sessions with a funny improv crew.

Intimate setting creates a cozy atmosphere for shows and classes. Improv classes and performances like 2 moms offer engaging, hands-on experiences.

People are saying

"I had a blast at the improv jam; it was so funny."

"It's a delightful venue for comedy shows."

"I loved taking improv classes and watching skilled comedy shows."

Good to know

1

The comedy show occurs on the first Thursday of each month.

2

Arrive at least twenty minutes early to secure a good seat.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can be difficult to find.

05
Mockingbird Improv image 1

Small venue holds about 40 people in an intimate, cozy theater setting. Atmosphere feels lively and welcoming, with clever improv performances that engage diverse audiences. Shows blend top-notch instruction and local talent, creating a space where creativity and humor thrive.

Shows blend improv and stand-up comedy for a fresh, funny experience. The theater offers a variety of formats and a supportive community that helps performers grow and connect.

A small theater on the second floor hosts improv shows with various funny formats. It creates a space where people play silly games, laugh a lot, and connect, while also guiding students through their improv journey.

People are saying

"This Improv experience was so fun and freeing; I wasn't afraid to be goofy."

"This place is the heart of the improv scene, fostering community and talent."

"Jen's workshops created an atmosphere of authenticity and emotional depth."

Good to know

1

The ticket price is very affordable for all shows.

2

There is plentiful parking nearby, making it easy to visit.

3

The Friday night short form show is a popular choice.

06
Made Up Theatre image 1
Comedy club

Small theater hosts live, spontaneous improv with outstanding, creative performers. Cozy space fosters a warm, friendly vibe and positive energy that draws a regular crowd. Shows and classes run frequently and remain affordable and accessible.

Super supportive members create a warm, welcoming vibe for both attendees and performers. Shows feature sharp improv and classes remain accessible for all skill levels.

Cozy space hosts live, spontaneous shows where no two performances are alike. The improv cast delivers fun, unrepeatable evenings full of laughs.

People are saying

"You'll have a fun night of laughs and audience participation."

"The performing arts here are spontaneous and unrepeatable, making for a fun night."

"I loved the Improv shows and the artists here."

Good to know

1

Audience members can participate by calling out words during improv shows.

2

The theater hosts free events occasionally, providing a budget-friendly option.

3

Shows typically last one hour, making them easy to fit into an evening.

07
All Out Comedy Theater-Improv Classes and Comedy Shows image 1

Comedy club offers improv classes and shows with well-trained performers and passionate teachers. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with a friendly community and plenty of laughs. Drinks and snacks are available during performances.

Classes focus on building community and teaching strong improv skills. Teachers show passion and dedication, making the experience both fun and enriching.

Classes focus on improv skills with opportunities to play weekly. Shows offer great comedy in a warm, welcoming community free from discrimination.

People are saying

"I found the improv classes fantastic and learned so much."

"I found the improv classes here to be a fantastic experience."

"These fun activities brought me so much laughter and joy."

Good to know

1

Free drop-in jam sessions are held on Wednesdays.

2

The theater hosts THE BAY AREA'S BEST COMEDY SHOW on First Fridays.

3

Improv classes are available for those interested in performing.

08
The Elysian Theater image 1

Black box theater offers an intimate, cozy atmosphere with colorful, visually stimulating decor. The venue hosts diverse comedy shows with great local beer available, creating a laid-back, engaging vibe for small audiences under 100.

Interactive improv shows take center stage with plenty of performances and open mic nights. The venue hosts improv comedy regularly, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.

Small black box theater hosts indie comedy, improv, and experimental performances. It offers an intimate, community-driven vibe with open mic nights and a platform for emerging talent.

People are saying

"It's such an intimate space; you feel so close to the performer."

"This intimate theater feels so cozy for live performances."

"The Improv here feels so intimate and close."

Good to know

1

Only street parking is available, so arrive early or use rideshare services.

2

Tickets are cheap, making it accessible for many visitors.

3

Some events allow you to bring your own drinks for a casual experience.

09
Lyric Hyperion Theater & Cafe image 1

Small, intimate black box theater offers comfortable seating and excellent stage views. Atmosphere feels electric and lively during shows, with a chill outdoor patio for pre- and post-performance gatherings. Venue hosts an eclectic mix of comedians, musicians, and improv acts in a cozy setting.

Comedians deliver excellent improv shows with super fun performances. The improv here ranks among the best in Los Angeles.

An intimate black box theater hosts an eclectic roster of acts including musicians, comedians, and improv. The space offers delicious snacks and drinks and a lively, engaging community atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a small, intimate theater with great shows."

"It's a small, intimate theater with an eclectic roster of acts."

"The Improv here is some of the best in Los Angeles."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, but street parking is usually easy to find.

2

Ticket holders check in by name; no ID needed.

3

The theater doors open 15 minutes before the show starts.

10
New Village Arts image 1
Performing arts theater

Smaller theater with intimate seating and wrap-around windows creates a cozy, engaging atmosphere. Live music and performances fill the space with lively energy, complemented by a stylish lounge and a renovated, artsy design. The venue supports local arts and offers comfortable seating with no bad views.

Steph Nasim produces packed improv shows that fill the theater with lively energy. The venue suits improv comedy well, hosting entertaining performances and workshops led by Village Improv.

An intimate theater hosts community plays and improv comedy with strong direction and acting. Performances like Mountain Top and Havanah Nights showcase well-written and engaging productions.

People are saying

"You'll be amazed by the talent in this local theater."

"The shows here are so fun, especially the comedy."

"Steph Nasim brought incredible improv comedy shows here."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and conveniently located near the venue.

2

The theater has a bar but does not serve food, plan accordingly.

3

Karaoke is available before shows, adding to the fun atmosphere.

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The Merc image 1
Jazz club

Small venue with intimate setting and world-class jazz acoustics creates a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. Comfortable seating and old-time quality feel enhance the experience. Local talent performs in a space that feels both beautiful and historic.

Shows feature a talented improv group delivering fun performances that create an enjoyable evening.

A classic mercantile store turns into a music and performing arts venue hosting local and small traveling talent. The Little Western Theater offers free public performances including plays and art shows, with a box office serving multiple theaters.

People are saying

"I thought it was a great place to showcase local talent."

"It's such an intimate setting for a show."

"It's an awesome, beautiful experience with life and vibrancy."

Good to know

1

Tickets are reasonably priced for most events at the venue.

2

Snacks, drinks, and wine are available at the snack bar in the courtyard.

3

The venue hosts weekly Jazz and Country events.

12
Oceanside Theatre Company at the Brooks image 1

Small, intimate theater with 198-seat capacity offers wonderful sound system and no bad seats. Atmosphere balances comfort and closeness, hosting a range of performances including plays, music, and comedy. Venue serves drinks during shows and features an art gallery, creating a lively cultural hub.

Tuesday night offers a fun improv class with a full schedule including improv comedy shows. Level 1 classes are available for beginners.

Small venue offers a comfortable and intimate theater experience. Productions like the Sleepy Hollow musical deliver emotional and engaging performances.

People are saying

"The performing arts here are amazing; I was blown away by the talent."

"I had a fun improv experience here; it's the center for the arts."

"It's a great local spot for the community."

Good to know

1

Parking can be an issue depending on which day and time of the performance.

2

Oceanside Theatre Company at the Brooks offers a variety of performances including musicals and comedy shows.

3

The Tuesday night improv class is a recurring event worth checking out.

13
Brea Improv image 1
Comedy club

Comedy club features intimate venue with cramped seating that prioritizes capacity over comfort. Loud music plays before and after shows, creating a high-energy atmosphere. Entertainment is outstanding, drawing a lively crowd despite some discomfort in seating arrangements.

Shows feature big names like D.L. Hughley, Vir Das, and Jamie Kennedy. Performances have a stellar staff and deliver an amazing experience.

Incredible shows take place in a magnificent theater that offers a nice setting for performances.

People are saying

"Parking is super convenient, right across the street."

"I found it to be a nice place for comedy shows."

"The Improv staff provided excellent service and were very accommodating."

Good to know

1

Parking options include $8 valet or free parking at the parking structure.

2

Seating is first come, first served; arriving earlier allows sitting in the front.

3

A 2pm comedy show happens every Saturday.

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