Best Improv Comedy In Seattle
Have you ever watched the improv comedy TV show "Whose Line is it Anyway?" and wondered how the actors are able to make up stories on the fly? See for yourself at one of these five Seattle theaters who specialize in the craft. Each troupe has their own spin on the craft and each can guarantee that no two shows are ever alike. Improv isn't for everyone, but if you would like to try something new that isn't "too weird," give it a try. Be sure to visit each of the following websites for more information.
Jet City Improv
5510 University Way N.E.
Seattle, WA 98105
(206) 352-8291
www.wingitpresents.com
For 22 years, Jet City Improv has entertained with on-the-spot comedy in its family-friendly shows (every Friday and Saturday night) and its Twisted Flicks shows where actors silence the film and broadcast their own dialogue (the last weekend of each month). In addition, Jet City is also one of the few troupes in Seattle that also presents full-length shows where only the general premise and characters have been decided on ahead of time.
Seattle Comedy Group
The Atlas Theatre
3509 Fremont Ave. N.
Seattle, WA 98103
(425) 954-5618
www.comedysportzseattle.com
The Seattle Comedy Group can be naughty or nice, depending on the show that you attend. ComedySports is on the tamer side with a fast-paced comedy game show that is held on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. On the racier side is the Blue Show where the actors will take anything, and we mean anything, that the audience can dish out in the way of suggestions. This one is presented on the first Saturday of month only. The adults-only events are "guaranteed to be bawdy, raunchy and above all, funny."
Unexpected Productions
1428 Post Alley
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 587-2414
www.unexpectedproductions.org
As the name implies, you're never quite sure what you'll be getting yourself into at Unexpected Productions. Improv shows include the "Duo Improv Comedy Showcase," which features Seattle's best comedy pairs; "Crossword," which is a stage play that only uses clues and answers found in a crossword puzzle; "Improv Happy Hour" comedy that is suitable for all ages with beverages that are suitable only for those age 21 and older; "Truth or Dare," which is an improve version of the famous party game; and the infamous "Theatresports" improve game show competition.
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Being Humans
The Pocket Theater
8312 Greenwood Ave. N.
Seattle WA 98103
www.beinghumansimprov.com
Similar to "TheatreSports" and "ComedySports," Being Humans presents its own versions of short scenes, long scenes and even full-length plays once a month at the Pocket Theater located in the Greenwood district. As with true improv, every show can start in one and direction and end in a completely different one and you'll be laughing all the way.
The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show
Hotel Deca
4507 Brooklyn Ave. N.E.
Seattle, WA 98105
(206) 634-2000
www.thedinnerdetective.com
It's like dinner and a movie – only you are in the movie. With the Dinner Detective, not only are you a guest of the show, but you just might end up playing a part as well. The staff "hides" its actors among the guests making everyone unsure who is for real and who is only playing a part. Each admission ticket includes an interrogation reception, a full dinner with choice of entrees and a special prize for the "top sleuth" in the crowd. The dinner shows are performed throughout the year and each show is appropriate for ages 13 and up.
Jeffrey Totey is a freelance writer living in Seattle. He has a love for the arts and is a student of pop culture. He covers stories about the performing arts, theater, museums, cultural events, movies and more in the greater Seattle area. His work can be found at Examiner.com.
