Local comedy theatre adds national family-friendly improv franchise to their show offerings

CINCINNATI, OH - [Feb 19, 2025]

Improv Cincinnati, a leading force in the region’s comedy community, is excited to announce its acquisition of the local ComedySportz franchise. This strategic move will bring together two beloved improv comedy institutions, thereby expanding the opportunities for performers and audiences alike in the Queen City

ComedySportz Cincinnati is a competitive improv show that has two teams go head-to-head in a fast-paced, family-friendly improv “match”. With its unique blend of audience participation and quick-witted humor, ComedySportz has built a loyal following since its inception in 2017. 

Improv Cincinnati is excited to integrate ComedySportz’s signature competitive improv format into its already diverse lineup of shows, classes, and community initiatives. Two community initiatives that they are most excited about expanding are the CSz Highschool League, and improv-based summer camp programs.

“We have partnered with Moeller as our first member of the Highschool League. We are very excited to generate interest for other schools to join us next season!” says Alex Morris, the Managing Director of ComedySportz. “Additionally, it’s the second year for our summer camps, and I could not be happier to train the next generation of improvisers!”

For more information about Improv Cincinnati and ComedySportz performances and community initiatives, visit www.improvcincinnati.com.

About Improv Cincinnati

Improv Cincinnati is an award-winning theatre company that teaches classes, produces theatrical improv and sketch comedy performances, and delivers professional team building and keynote experiences. Since our inception in April 2016, we’ve entertained countless members of Cincinnati’s community while also teaching more than 1,000 students through improv workshops, classes, and team building. We foster compassion and a sense of belonging for individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, ability, or any other way a person may identify. And we strengthen this commitment through continued learning, scholarships, community engagement and charitable donations.

Our mission is to become a best-in-class institution that helps people of all backgrounds become their best selves through learning, performing, and enjoying comedy of all kinds.

ComedySportz Cincinnati is a high-energy, competitive improv show where two teams of improvisers battle for laughs with audience suggestions fueling the fun. Additionally, ComedySportz offers improv training, summer camps, and corporate workshops that inspire laughter and personal growth both on and off the stage.

Since 2017, ComedySportz has been entertaining families in Cincinnati with a focus on clean, high-energy entertainment. ComedySportz offers a hilarious and inclusive experience for families, friends, and corporate events alike.

Improv Cincinnati Launches May 2024 Mentorship Cohort

Improv Cincinnati's Mentorship Program: Level Up Your Funny in a Year!

Big news! Our second cohort of the Mentorship Program launched on Thursday, May 9th, with a crew of 6 pairs, from fresh-faced students to seasoned performers.

Erin Kessler, our Cohort lead, says “This program fosters an environment of creativity, growth, and collaboration. We are deeply appreciative of the mentors who share their wisdom, and we're inspired by the mentees who seize this opportunity to expand their skills.”

So, what's in store? Monthly meet-ups, a handy handbook, and a whole lotta laughter!

The goal? To help up-and-coming improvisers develop their skills and confidence and maybe even discover their own inner mentor!

"I truly believe in the power of mentorship," Erin says. "Every new cohort brings a renewed energy that fuels our shared passion for improv. We believe in nurturing each other's unique talents, and this program exemplifies that spirit. Whether you're guiding or learning, your journey here has the potential to shape our community in incredible ways!”

Ready to join the fun? Keep an eye out for future application rounds, or simply high-five any of our Mentors and Mentees and soak up the vibes!

Both interested Mentor and Mentee applicants can sign up for future cohorts of the Improv Cincinnati Mentorship Program on this Google form.

Contact Information: Improv Cincinnati Mentorship Team

Erin Kessler: (740-358-6198) erinfgkessler@gmail.com

All Jane Comedy Show: Celebrating Women in Comedy at Memorial Hall, Cincinnati

The All Jane Comedy Show will be an extraordinary night of laughter, camaraderie, and unbridled creativity at Memorial Hall on October 3rd at 7:00 pm, celebrating the genius of women in comedy and supporting Artswave Cincinnati.

The All Jane Comedy Show takes center stage at Memorial Hall in Cincinnati, Ohio on Tuesday, October 3rd at 7:00 pm. This remarkable comedy event features talented women comedians from across the nation.

Headlining the night is the electrifying “Ruby Rocket” an improvised noir masterpiece crafted by Stacey Hallal from Curious Comedy in Portland, OR. Ruby Rocket will also showcase a constellation of special guests, including Emily Fontano (Artistic Director of SAK Comedy Lab in Orlando), EB Byland (co-founder of Queen City Comedy in Charlotte), and beloved local luminary and University of Cincinnati CCM acting instructor Tracy Connor.

Opening the show is the much-anticipated debut of Coko & Tati, a dynamic duo featuring the incredible Coko Galore, current member of Second City’s main stage in Toronto, and Improv Cincinnati’s company member and beloved instructor, Tatiana Godfrey.

Beyond the laughter and entertainment, the All Jane Comedy Show supports a profound mission. Proceeds will go to Artswave, the Cincinnati-based nonprofit with many types of grants for artists, including several that are devoted to empowering and promoting the creative work of women.

Assistant Creative Director Kelly Gruber said, "It’s an absolute honor to host so many incredibly talented women in comedy. This one-of-a-kind performance is a celebration of creativity, powerful women, and the ability of comedy to bring people together for a great cause."

The All Jane Comedy Show is an integral part of the prestigious Improv Leadership Summit. This groundbreaking conference unites leaders from comedy theaters across the nation, fostering collaboration and innovation within the comedy community.

Improv Cincinnati Celebrates Pride 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️

Improv Cincinnati is thrilled to announce "IC's Pride Night Comedy Showcase," an exceptional evening of improv and sketch comedy, taking place on June 17, at Clifton Comedy Theatre in the heart of the Gaslight District. This special event aims to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month, while showcasing the incredible talent of Improv Cincinnati's LGBTQ+ performers and their allies.

The night will kick off with a captivating sketch comedy show  at 8:00pm. Directed by Jennifer Martinez and Caleb Robinson, the show features an array of hilarious and thought-provoking sketches that explore various aspects of LGBTQ+ life, identity, and experiences. Audiences can expect an evening filled with laughter, wit, and genuine moments of connection as these talented performers bring their unique perspectives to the stage.

At 9:30pm, IC's Pride Night Comedy Showcase will continue with an exhilarating improv show. The audience will be treated to a night of unscripted, spontaneous performances and an appearance by guest monologist gay rights advocate Taylor Johnson.  This improvised journey promises to be both hilarious and heartwarming, creating an inclusive and memorable experience for all attendees 

Jonathan Bitzer, Monica Nash, and Jennifer Martinez, three performers who met while attending classes at Improv Cincinnati, have taken on the role of producers for this extraordinary event. With a passion for both comedy and LGBTQ+ advocacy,  the three have worked tirelessly to ensure that IC's Pride Night Comedy Showcase is a celebration of diversity, inclusivity, and the power of laughter.

"IC Pride Night Comedy Showcase is a positive example of the incredible talent within the LGBTQ+ community and an opportunity for us to come together and celebrate Pride Month in a unique way," Jonathan Bitzer said. "Through comedy, we can challenge stereotypes, build bridges, and create a safe and inclusive space where everyone feels welcome. We are  incredibly proud to be a part of this event and to support our talented LGBTQ+ performers and allies."

Improv Cincinnati is known for its commitment to fostering a welcoming and diverse environment. With IC's Pride Night Comedy Showcase, they continue their dedication to providing a platform for underrepresented voices to be heard and celebrated. The event is a testament to the power of comedy as a tool for social change and the importance of community support.

Tickets for IC's Pride Night Comedy Showcase are available for purchase on Improv Cincinnati's website. Attendees are encouraged to secure their tickets early, as this promises to be a popular event. A portion of the proceeds from the evening will be donated to Treehouse Cincinnati, a local LGBTQ+ organization, furthering the impact of IC Pride Night beyond the stage.

Join Improv Cincinnati and the talented LGBTQ+ performers and allies for a night of laughter, connection, and celebration at IC Pride Night on June 17. Prepare to be entertained, inspired, and uplifted as the power of comedy takes center stage.

About Improv Cincinnati: Improv Cincinnati is a leading improvisational theater group that offers high-quality shows, classes, and workshops to the Cincinnati community. With a focus on cultivating creativity, collaboration, and personal growth, Improv Cincinnati is committed to providing a safe and inclusive space for performers and audiences alike.

Improv Legend David Razowsky Performs in Cincinnati at The Know Theatre

Improv Cincinnati is thrilled to present a theatrical comedy experience with visiting Second City mainstage alum David Razowsky.

Razowsky studied, performed, taught and directed at Second City with Steven Colbert, Steve Carell, Keegan-Michael Key and other legendary actors. The show will be held Saturday, June 24, 8:00 pm at Know Theatre, 1120 Jackson Street, Cincinnati. Tickets  ($20 each) are available for purchase here.

“Razowsky is funny, smart, inquisitive, and artistically fearless.”
  —Steve Carell

Prior to teaching his improv methods internationally, Razowsky served as Artistic Director of Second City Hollywood. He’s known for his brilliant improvisational skills and insightful approach to the art form. His book, "A Subversive's Guide to Improvisation," has become a staple for improvisers seeking to elevate their craft.

The June 24 show is sure to leave a lasting impression for Cincinnati’s comedy enthusiasts. “Hosting Dave Razowsky is a tremendous honor for Improv Cincinnati," said Colin Thornton, Artistic Director of the theater. "His contributions to the improv world are immeasurable, and we’re excited to provide this rare opportunity to witness his magic. I think we all have something to learn from him, too.” Razowsky will be joined by his fellow Second City colleague and Queen City native: Kevin Crowley, an accomplished actor and instructor at Cincinnati School for Creative and Performing Arts. 

Audiences can expect an electric and powerful performance. This special event showcases the commitment Improv Cincinnati has to bringing world-class talent to the stage. The group, who is also hosting a two-day (sold-out) workshop with Razowsky the weekend of the show, is known for delivering memorable performances, teaching classes and fostering a vibrant community.

Improv Cincinnati Welcomes Special Guests Rick Andrews, Louis Kornfeld, Susan Messing, and John Lehr

Improv Cincinnati is thrilled to announce the upcoming special guest performances of some of the best comedy improvisers from New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

April 7, 2023 | Cincinnati, OH | Improv Cincinnati Media

Improv Cincinnati is thrilled to announce the upcoming performances of four very special guests, including some of the best performers from the New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles improv comedy scenes.

On Saturday April 29 at 8:00 pm and 9:30 pm, Rick Andrews and Louis Kornfeld will bring their unparalleled talent and humor from New York to Clifton Comedy Theatre for two performances. This dynamic duo was featured in an article in The New York Times lauding their ongoing performances at Magnet Theatre.

On Friday May 5th at 8:00 pm and 9:30 pm, the legendary Susan Messing, known for her hilarious and fearless performances, will take the stage alongside her special guest John Lehr from Hulu’s Quickdraw (also known for being Geico’s caveman), in what promises to be an unforgettable evening.

“We are honored to host such incredible talent at Improv Cincinnati” said Jon Ulrich, Executive Director of Improv Cincinnati. “These performers are among the best in the business, and we can’t wait to share their world-class comedy with our IC audience. Tickets for both shows are on sale now and can be purchased at Improv Cincinnati’s website.”

ABOUT IMPROV CINCINNATI: Improv Cincinnati is a comedy club and training center with the goal of lifting spirits and inspiring personal growth. Since its founding in 2015,

Improv Cincinnati has been dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive space for performers and audiences alike and has been recognized as the best improv theatre in Cincinnati.

Improv Cincinnati Presents “Everything & The Kitchen Sink,” a Series of Comedy Shows Featuring Diverse Performers

Improv Cincinnati is excited to announce our upcoming comedy shows featuring a diverse BIPOC cast on April Fool’s weekend at Clifton Comedy Theatre.

Improv Cincinnati is excited to announce our upcoming comedy shows featuring a diverse BIPOC cast. Everything & The Kitchen Sink will take place on April Fool’s weekend at Clifton Comedy Theatre.

"We are thrilled to showcase a diverse cast of performers on April Fool’s Weekend," said Teddy Shivers, Director of Sketch Education for Improv Cincinnati. "Our goal is to provide a platform for all voices to be heard and celebrated through comedy."

On Friday, March 31, IC will feature a sketch comedy show at 7:00 pm and an improv comedy show at 8:30 pm. With a mix of humor, wit, and creativity from widely varied backgrounds and life experiences, the show promises to deliver a night of laughter and
entertainment for all audiences.

The Saturday, April 1st 7:00 pm show will highlight Cincinnati’s diverse stand-up comedy scene with special guests Hay-J Thompson, Freddie Simone, and Calep Lee.

The Saturday, April 1st 8:30 pm show will again feature Improv Cincinnati’s diverse and talented improvisers, as well as the all-black improv comedy team Affirmative Distraction from Columbus, Ohio. The show promises to be both inclusive and hilarious.

Tickets for Everything & The Kitchen Sink are available for purchase now on Improv Cincinnati’s show page. Don't miss this opportunity to see a talented and diverse group of improvisers and stand-ups perform live!

City of Cinicnnati's Leadership Learn Improv

The city of Cincinnati recently invited Improv Applied to provide a fun and engaging workshop for the city’s departmental directors. Improv Cincinnati’s Executive Director Jon Ulrich led the workshop on November 18th at City Hall.

This is not the first collaboration between Improv Cincinnati and the city. Recently, Mayor Aftab and City Manager Sheryl Long visited Clifton Comedy Theatre to tell true stories that inspired improv performances. Mayor Aftab’s and Mrs. Long’s appearances at the sold out show were well received, and the collaboration inspired the city to introduce the benefits of improv to their leadership staff.

“We are trying to break down work silos and foster collaboration between departments,” said Assistant to the City Manager Angela Wright. “We’re excited about how improv can be used as a professional development tool for our directors.”

The techniques of improvisation are widely used to foster team building, improve communication, boost creativity, and inspire out-of-the-box thinking. Improv Cincinnati has delivered similar workshops to organizations like Capital One, P&G, Fifth Third Bank, and University of Cincinnati.

Auditions Announced for HOT MIC

Hot Mic, Cincinnati’s premier improvised musical, will be holding auditions on Saturday, August 27th from 4pm-6pm. Hot Mic is a group of improviser actors who focus on creating one-act musicals in-the-moment. The music, lyrics, and scenes are all created before the audience, based on an audience suggestion. We are looking for up to three performers who display/have experience in long-form comedic improvisation, musical theater performance, singing, dancing, and/or acting. Callbacks will be held on Monday, August 29th, from 8:30pm-9:30 pm.

The two hours of auditions will consist of a group interview and an assessment of the skills listed above. During the assessment, auditioners will be led through improvisation and music warm ups, a song creation exercise, and an improvisational form. The audition will conclude with a whole group musical improv game. Auditioners will be assessed on improv skills, musicality, and overall sportsmanship (understanding of and commitment to fair play, ethical behavior and integrity, and general goodwill). Notes and feedback will be given throughout the practical assessment part of the audition. There is no need to prepare a piece to audition with.

Hot Mic rehearses on Mondays from 7:30pm-9:30pm and performs on the first Saturday of every month at 8pm. Interested parties should be able to commit to these times throughout the year with few exceptions. Being cast in the ensemble will lead to participation on a trial basis until all parties feel comfortable with the standard of performance. All performers work on a volunteer basis, though a few paying gigs are booked throughout the year.

To sign up for auditions click here. For more information, if you have access needs to communicate, or if you would like to audition but are unable to attend our allotted time on Saturday, please reach out to Tone Branson, team captain, at toneisdead@gmail.com. 

Santa Workshop with Improv Cincinnati

It’s not easy being Santa. The jolly old elf can’t be everywhere at once, which is why he needs local actors and lookalikes to play his likeness at malls and local attractions. Improv Cincinnati will soon be providing an improv workshop to working santas from Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. 

Improv Cincinnati’s Tone Branson will be teaching the improv and character workshop on Saturday, August 20th to thirty local Santas who are gearing up for the holiday season.  This 6 hour training facilitated by Pat Lense “The City Santa” will be held at the Boone County Courthouse and will focus mainly on character training.

“These improv skills will give them confidence in making character choices, hone their active listening skills, build trust with other performers and, most of all, keep them in the positive Christmas spirit,” said Tone Branson 

Tone Branson is no stranger to playing St. Nicholas – he has played Santa in various productions over the years and appreciates the responsibility that comes with it.  

“I was, mostly, playing in front of adults, but every once in a while some kids would attend one of the shows. I had to keep in mind that I had to remain as Santa during those interactions. I had to think like Santa and respond as him. This is my goal with this class and I am excited to see everyone take on that classic persona.” 

Improv Cincinnati Welcomes Improv Legend Susan Messing

Improv Cincinnati is honored to welcome Susan Messing for two shows at Clifton Comedy Theatre on Friday, July 8th and a Master Class on July 9th .

Legendary improv comedy actor Susan Messing visits Cincinnati on July 8th for back-to-back shows. Messing is a 30 year veteran of improvisation and an alumnus of Second City main stage. Her confident style, razor-sharp wit, and unparalleled acting has cemented her as one of the best improvisers in the world.

“My style is to play with commitment, try on something new, and just see what happens. Who cares if it goes bad because we’ll all forget it tomorrow,” said Messing. Messing has performed with some of the best comedians in the world. “Some of my favorite people to play with are the ones who made it easy, people like Tim Meadows [SNL], Scott Adsit [30 Rock], and Ike Barinholtz [The Mindy Project].”

Susan Messing will be performing twice on Friday, July 8th. At 8:00 pm, she performs her internationally acclaimed show Messing With A Friend, in which a special guest joins her for an improvised duo. Her guest will be local favorite Tone Branson, who plays big characters in a down-to-earth way.

“I’m honored and a little nervous to be sharing the stage with someone I consider to be a master of improv. Susan performed with one of my favorites, Tim Robinson [I Think You Should Leave - Netflix], and now she’s visiting Cincinnati to perform with me on my birthday. Somebody pinch me,” said Tone Branson. “Actually, don’t pinch me. That would hurt.”

The evening continues at 9:30 pm with Veracity, where Susan Messing performs as the guest monologist. The Veracity team will improvise comedy scenes inspired by her true stories.

Messing will also offer a Master Class on Saturday, July 9th at Noon.

Show tickets

Master Class info & registration

Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval Featured Guest at Comedy Show

Improv Cincinnati’s Veracity Comedy Show welcomes Mayor Aftab Pureval as the guest monologist on Friday, June 10th. Mayor Pureval’s true stories will inspire the improvised scenes from Veracity’s comedic actors.

May 24, 2022 | Cincinnati, OH | Improv Cincinnati Media

Improv Cincinnati has welcomed some amazing guest storytellers to entertain audiences at Clifton Comedy Theatre in the heart of the Gaslight District. Previous monologists have included Sky White from rock band Foxy Shazam, councilman Greg Landsman, and local historian Greg Hand.

On Friday, June 10th, Improv Cincinnati will add Mayor Aftab Pureval to that distinguished list. As guest monologist, the Mayor will share true stories to inspire hilarious improvised comedy scenes by Veracity’s actors.

“We’re excited to welcome Mayor Pureval to our stage,” said Improv Cincinnati’s Artistic Director Colin Thornton. ”It’s truly an honor to have him participate in our Veracity comedy show.”

Mayor Pureval’s appearance will coincide with a lunch-and-learn improv activity with the city’s departmental directors. 

“The city approached us for an improv workshop with their leadership team to focus on speaking skills, confidence, and creative collaboration within their departments,” said Jon Ulrich, Improv Cincinnati’s Executive Director. “We are enthusiastically looking forward to bringing our team building experience to Cincinnati’s leadership.”

For tickets and more information: https://improvcincinnati.com/shows

Contact: Colin Thornton, Artistic Director              
info@improvcincinnati.com              
513-900-1110

Improv Cincinnati Debuts Late Night Comedy Variety Show

Improv Cincinnati has announced a new comedy variety show inspired by Saturday Night Live. Like SNL, Cincinnati Night Live (CNL) will feature comedy sketches, a special guest host, guest musician, and a newscast segment that lampoons the week’s news stories.

CNL’s June 4th debut will feature guest host and local comedic actor Dave Powell. Powell is a graduate of Second City’s conservatory program, an improv comedy instructor at Xavier University, and the former co-director of OTRimprov.

“I love the challenge of putting on a live sketch show every week with a different host—it’s a little bit punk rock, honestly,” said Powell. “I’m honored to be the first host, and I’m looking forward to the debut!”

Other announced hosts include Award-winning stand-up comedian Hayward Thompson and Queen City Comedy founder Elizabeth Byland. 

CNL will perform live every Saturday in June and July (except July 2) at 10 pm at Improv Cincinnati’s Clifton Comedy Theatre. 

For tickets and more information: https://improvcincinnati.com/shows

Contact: Colin Thornton, Artistic Director              
info@improvcincinnati.com              
513-900-1110

Improv Cincinnati’s Comedy Club Celebrates Grand Reopening with New Look and Ukraine Fundraiser

April 25, 2022 | Cincinnati, OH | Improv Cincinnati Media

Audiences may not recognize Improv Cincinnati’s Clifton Comedy Theatre when the venue holds its Grand Reopening this Friday, April 29th. Upgrades include a new branded outdoor awning, a complete “black box” paint out, and new flooring.

“We want Clifton Comedy Theatre to become a comedy destination for the region,” said Artistic Director Colin Thornton. “These renovations upgrade the theatre space to equal the level of talent we are showcasing weekly.”

Proceeds this weekend will go to Gear For Ukraine, an organization sending protective equipment to Ukraine.

HOT MIC, Cincinnati’s first and only improvised musical group, headlines Friday evening at 8 pm. Performers improvise every element of a Broadway-style musical—characters, dialogue, plot, songs, and lyrics—accompanied by pit musicians also improvising all parts.

“This narrative musical form is an improv tour de force,” said HOT MIC Musical Director Delmar Davis. “It requires the highest levels of skill and ensemble coordination and is astounding as it all comes together.”

The fundraiser continues at 9:30 pm with the debut of Alphas, an all-female team performing sketch comedy and improv inspired by a theme. The theme for this show is Alphas In Space.

“This show theme was inspired by the story of NASA engineers asking astronaut Sally Ride if 100 tampons would be enough for a weeklong trip to space,” said Director Patricia Mullins. “You can’t make this stuff up—but we’ll try.”

Website: https://improvcincinnati.com/shows
Contact: Colin Thornton, Artistic Director
info@improvcincinnati.com
513-900-1110

Chicago Improv Comedy Legends Visit Cincinnati

Legendary improv comedy duo Bassprov will perform at Improv Cincinnati’s Clifton Comedy Theatre on Friday, April 22nd and Saturday, April 23rd. Shows start at 8 pm.

Bassprov’s Joe Bill and Mark Sutton will also be leading workshops at Improv Cincinnati over the weekend.

Twenty years ago, Bassprov became the world’s first two-person comedy team to improvise one continuous scene performed in real time. This innovation has become one of the foundations of relationship-based improv.

Although the performance is improvised, Bill and Sutton always portray two salt-of-the-earth characters who relax with beers on a fishing trip. This simple premise results in improvised conversations that are both hilarious and completely authentic.

"We want to show these guys as being how people actually are in real life with different viewpoints and complex opinions,” said Mark Sutton. “Part of the fun for us is to build upon the assumptions people might have about two blue collar guys from Indiana, and then to break those assumptions. I know the audience will leave affected by the characters and moved by their conversation."

“I saw the show on Friday at Improv Boston, and it was so incredibly funny that I went to the second show on Saturday night,” said recent audience member Kate Knapp. “This may be THE funniest and most intelligent improv show I have ever seen.”

More info here.
Contact: Colin Thornton, Artistic Director
info@improvcincinnati.com
513-900-1110