4 improv comedy venues in Austin offer live improvisational comedy — from fast-paced short-form games to long-form narrative improv. Many also offer classes for aspiring comedians.
1700 E 2nd St, Austin, TX
ColdTowne Theater is Austin's premier long-form improv and sketch comedy training center, now operating as part of the Upright Citizens Brigade family. Located in East Austin at 1700 E 2nd St, the theater runs shows nightly — from house team improv sets to touring stand-up acts — and offers a full conservatory curriculum for aspiring performers. Free parking and a welcoming community vibe make it a local favorite.
13729 Research Blvd, N Hwy 183 Suite 1350, Austin, TX 78750, Austin, TX
ComedySportz is Austin’s longest-running improvised comedy show. Each show is unique, made up on-the-spot from audience suggestions, with a fast-paced, funny and family-friendly format.
617 Congress Ave, Austin, TX
The Hideout Theatre has been Austin's home for long-form improv since 1999, operating out of a dedicated 99-seat black-box theater at 617 Congress Ave in Downtown Austin. The venue is best known for its flagship show, The Maestro — a long-form improv format in which one performer is chosen by audience vote to direct an entire improvised show. The Hideout runs shows Friday and Saturday nights, with select weeknight performances; check the calendar at hideouttheatre.com for current scheduling. Tickets are priced at $5–$20 and the venue is all-ages, making it one of the most accessible comedy venues in Austin. The Hideout also runs one of Austin's most respected improv training programs, with classes for all skill levels. Alumni of the Hideout training program have gone on to perform at Second City, iO Chicago, and UCB. Located on Congress Avenue, the theater is within walking distance of the Texas State Capitol and dozens of downtown restaurants and bars.
1700 E 2nd St, Austin, TX
Excused Absence Comedy is Austin's premier all-ages improv and sketch comedy program for youth and families, operating out of ColdTowne Theater at 1700 E 2nd St in East Austin. The program runs family-friendly improv shows on Saturday mornings (Story Starts, 11am) and additional performances throughout the week. Tickets are priced at $10–$15 and the venue is all-ages and family-friendly. Excused Absence Comedy is the only Austin comedy program specifically designed for children and families, offering a safe, inclusive, and genuinely funny live comedy experience for audiences of all ages. The program also runs youth improv classes and summer camps, making it a year-round resource for Austin families interested in comedy and performance. Located at 1700 E 2nd St inside ColdTowne Theater, the venue is in the heart of East Austin and easily accessible by car or bike.
Short-Form Improv
Short-form shows (like ComedySportz or "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" style) feature quick games with audience suggestions. Shows are fast-paced, interactive, and great for first-timers. Typically 60–90 minutes with no intermission.
Long-Form Improv
Long-form shows (Harold, Armando, Montage) build sustained narratives from a single audience suggestion. These are the format taught at Second City and iO. Shows run 45–75 minutes and reward repeat attendance.
Audience Participation
Improv shows rely on audience suggestions for scenes, characters, and locations. You're encouraged to participate but never forced on stage. The more creative your suggestions, the more fun the show.
Classes & Workshops
Most improv theaters offer beginner classes — no experience needed. Classes typically run 8–10 weeks and culminate in a student showcase. It's also a great way to meet people and build confidence.
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