Oh improv… it’s like a grand stage where your creativity reigns supreme. When you watch a good improv show or performer, it truly feels like magic. They’re living in the moment, not worrying about sticking to a script, and what typically emerges is often both unexpected and hilarious. Maybe a little terrifying, but in the best way. Whether you aspire to make it a side hustle, elevate your career, or even join a full-time troupe, improv is your ultimate partner in crime. And let’s not forget its magic in enhancing your speaking prowess, honing quick thinking, boosting confidence, and mingling with some fabulously quirky souls along the way. If thinking on the spot and making people laugh sounds like a fit for you, taking an improv class near you is a great idea. LA is home to the largest variety of improv classes and theaters in the world, so let’s take a peek at some of the best and where you can take a class near you.
The Groundlings
Location: 7307 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
If you find yourself talking in different characters, are a fiend for impressions, and can’t wait to dust off that wig in your closet, The Groundlings is for you. Established in the early 1970’s, The Groundlings is an improv powerhouse celebrated for its character-driven comedy and brilliant sketch shows. Alumni like Will Ferrell, Jennifer Coolidge, Melissa McCarthy, and Kristen Wiig have graced its stages, making it a legend in the world of improv. They are also the foremost comedy training ground in Hollywood and a springboard for countless careers. There are new classes posted every Tuesday at 1pm PT if you want to give it a whirl and sign up. If you want to get a feel for it, check out their show on Thursday, Cookin with Gas, the longest running short-form improv show in Los Angeles! (FYI: G=Groundlings A=Alumni S= Sunday!)
UCB – Upright Citizens Brigade
Location: 5919 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Founded by the comedic genius quartet of Matt Besser, Amy Poehler, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh in 1996, UCB is renowned for its long-form improv and sketch comedy. The likes of Aziz Ansari, Donald Glover, and Aubrey Plaza have honed their craft here, making it a breeding ground for comedic brilliance. With theaters in New York City and Los Angeles, UCB has become a hub for some of the best live comedy in the world. Alongside improv, UCB showcases a diverse range of sketch comedy, stand-up, and experimental performances, making it a go-to destination for emerging talents and a stage for established comedians. The Upright Citizens Brigade Improv Program is a comprehensive training that immerses students in the world of long form improvisational comedy. Get started with an Improv 101 class, but stay committed as classes begin at $500 for eight 3 hour sessions.
Improv for the People
Location: 10508 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064
Nestled in an incredible community, Improv for the People is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and camaraderie. With affordable classes ($180 for the month) and fantastic teachers, it’s a haven for those seeking both learning and laughter. Improv for the People brings you the cutting edge performing arts class that businesses are teaching their employees and top business schools are teaching their MBA students. Get signed up now as they just released a new schedule of classes.
LA Connection Comedy Theater
Location: 3435 Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505
Since 1977, the L.A. Connection Comedy Theatre’s mission has been to perfect the art of improvisation. Located in the cute shopping Magnolia District of Burbank, it’s known for its supportive community and relaxed vibes, offering classes for all levels. They can even do classes over Zoom. Their goal is to create a community of performers, who develop and showcase their individual talents in a supportive group setting. Just $10 a class to get plugged into this community and get the benefits of a cool improv class near you.
The Pack Theater
Location: 1078 Lillian Way, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Founded in 2013, The Pack embraces alternative comedy and diversity within its community, offering a plethora of shows and workshops. The Hollywood based Pack Theater has been a staple of Los Angeles comedy for over 15 years. What began as one improv class under the Miles Stroth Workshop grew into a community that puts on shows 5 nights a week in the heart of Los Angeles and a training center that boasts some of the most talented teachers in the world specializing in improv and sketch comedy. Improv classes are enrolling now and some are as little as $150 for a set of classes.
Westside Comedy Theater
Location: 1323-A 3rd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
If you’re on the West Side, the Westside Comedy Theater specializes in short-form improv games, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere for beginners and seasoned improvisers alike. Founded in 2009, Westside Comedy Theater quickly became a beacon for comedy lovers, offering a variety of shows and classes tailored to different skill levels. Find your voice with their improv classes as their classes do not limit students to a single, rigid style or approach. Instead, the Improv Program teaches a deep understanding of the bedrock fundamentals of improvisation, and then helps each student apply those skills with their own voice, style, and goals. Each level is taught by an experienced, professional improviser that can been seen performing at the theater regularly, in addition to writing and starring in film, television, commercials, and more. 6 week classes begin at $345.
Improv-LA
Location: 1607 N. Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Since 2010, Improv-LA has been the place for actors, non-actors, and improvisers to come together to learn and strengthen their skills for everyday life. Improv-LA is always very affordable and allows its student to explore and work out their creative muscles from the very first moment of class. The workshops are designed to make the student feel supportive, included, and confident onstage and off. If you’re looking for an improv class with minimal competitive vibes and more of a supportive and safe space to learn from, check them out. Their classes begin at $359.
Pro-Tip: It’s good practice to think about what type of group of community may be right for you. Different schools focus more on character, sketch, even long-form improv. You should also factor in commute time, talk to former alumni, and try to catch a showcase before you make a commitment. Also, some improv schools may have you audition to even just be able to take a class. If you don’t get in, please don’t let that discourage you from improv all together. You can reapply, or try another school.
If all this improv has got you in a mood to discover even more about the entertainment world and studio history, check out our Top 5 Studio Tours in Los Angeles, where many of the actors and movie stars you learn about have taken some form of improv training.
Feature images courtesy of Upright Citizens Brigade (ucbcomedy.com)
