Everything Improv

The Birth of an Improv Giant The Second City Theater, a name synonymous with comedy and improvisation, has its roots in the vibrant city of Chicago. Founded in 1959 by Bernard Sahlins, Howard Alk, and Paul Sills, the theater was inspired by the improvisational techniques of Viola Spolin, Sills' mother, who is often considered the mother of improvisation in the theater. Located initially at 1842 North Wells Street in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood, the Second City sprung from the remnants of the Compass Players, a group that laid the groundwork for modern improv. The theater began as a small cabaret venue but quickly transformed into an iconic institution, catapulting the art of improvisational comedy into the mainstream and leaving an indelible mark on the industry. The name "Second City" itself was a wry nod to a New Yorker magazine article that referred to Chicago as a "second city" to New York, but in the world of comedy, Second City quickly took first p...

  The Origins of The PIT Theater Established in the early 2000s, The People's Improv Theater, commonly known as The PIT, was founded by Ali Reza Farahnakian in the heart of New York City. Farahnakian, an alumnus of the renowned Second City in Chicago, had a vision of creating a space dedicated solely to the art of improvisational theater. His intention was simple yet profound: to foster a community of artists where creativity could flourish without restraint. Early Days and Rapid Growth The PIT began its life as a small venue located at 154 W 29th Street in Manhattan. It quickly became a hub for performers from all walks of life—a melting pot of talent where actors, comedians, and writers could collaborate and perform. The word about this vibrant new theater spread rapidly, attracting audiences fascinated by the allure of live, unscripted performances. As The PIT's popularity soared, so did the quality and diversity of its shows, workshops, and classes. A Platform for Emerging...

  The Origins of Magnet Theater The Magnet Theater, located in New York City, is one of the contemporary cornerstones of improvisational comedy in the United States. It was founded in 2005 by a group of improv enthusiasts and veterans, which included Armando Diaz, Ed Herbstman, and Shannon Manning. They envisioned a space where performers could hone their craft, create daring new forms of comedy, and where a community of improvisers could flourish. Diaz, noted for being one of the original instructors at the legendary Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) Theatre, brought his expertise and philosophy to the Magnet, helping to develop its distinctive style focused on truthful, organic play. Popularity and Growth Through word of mouth and the sterling reputations of its founders, the Magnet quickly gained popularity within New York's performing arts scene. It became known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to the art of improv. Central to this reputation was the Magnet's train...