What is Improv Theater?

“Improvisation Theater is the form of theatre, often comedy, in which most or all of what is performed is unplanned or unscripted, created spontaneously by the performer.”

Improv performers

Source: Wikipedia — Creative Commons

Quick Overview

Improvisational theatre (or improv) emphasizes collaboration, listening, and playful risk-taking.

This site is intended to give you an introduction to types of improv, suggest places to see improv, and maybe even inspire you to try improv yourself!

Some types of improv:

  • Improv performers create shows or sets in which short scenes are often interrelated by story, characters, or themes.

  • Improv that consists of short scenes usually constructed from a predetermined game, structure, or idea and driven by an audience suggestion.

  • Like most games, people follow rules and have fun! Unlike many games, there often isn't a clear winner.

  • In musical improv theater, performers, well, improvise a musical. Every note and lyric is made up on the spot!