Improv troupes in Phoenix perform a variety of forms. There are short-form shows, which follow a series of games, much like “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” and there are long-form shows that follow one theme or set of characters for the course of the entire show. Still other troupes are more experimental, like local troupe The Remainders, who improvise a full musical each show.
Also of note is the Phoenix Neutrino Project. Originating in New York, there are Neutrino projects across the United States. This technologically enhanced improv performance consists of an improvised movie that is filmed in real time and run back to the performance venue to be played for the audience. Performers from all over the Valley perform, produce, score and film the movie before the audience’s eyes!
Other local troupes include Apollo 12, Galapagos, The Light Rail Pirates, Mail Order Bride, The Jester’z, and ASU’s troupe Barren Mind.
Where In the Valley Can I Usually Find Improv?
There are several venues that “specialize” in improv, including the aforementioned Torch Theatre, which currently performs at Space 55 in downtown Phoenix, Theater 168 and Entertainment Alley in Scottsdale, and the National Comedy Theatre in Mesa. In the West Valley is Dramagenics Family Improv Theater, where the Mixed Nuts perform a family-friendly show each week. In Casa Grande the EXiT 185 Improv Comedy Troupe performs at the Paramount Theatre.New venues are popping up all the time as this art form collects more interest and momentum. Individual troupes advertise on their websites, on Showup.com, and on azcentral.com.
What Happens at the Phoenix Improv Festival?
The Phoenix Improv Festival is held each spring in downtown Phoenix. At this event, the cream of the country’s improv talent travels to Phoenix to perform, teach and network. Established local troupes also perform, and the event is quickly gaining recognition as one of the improv community’s top festivals. For spectators, the festival is a terrific opportunity to check out improv in its various forms, and even to catch some celebrities! Past festivals have drawn comedy mavens from across the country, including the likes of Joe Bill from Chicago’s Annoyance Theater & The Second City, and Jack McBrayer from NBC’s 30 Rock. Past performers have also included talent from Comedy Central’s The Colbert Report.
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All dates and offerings are subject to change without notice.
