Denver’s comedy scene continues to grow as it gains national attention, but did you know that Denver is also home to a robust and thriving improv comedy scene? That’s right, unscripted comedy is alive and well in the Mile-High City thanks to several of these great local hot spots. Looking for some fun things to do this weekend? Need a great date-night idea for that special someone? Or just looking to find something different for your entertainment dollar? Here are four great places to catch the best improv comics in Colorado.
RISE Comedy Playhouse
1260 22nd Street
Denver, CO 80205
(303) 578-0079
www.risecomedy.com
Since 2008, The RISE Comedy Playhouse has been the best place in town to catch a huge variety of improv comedy, sketch comedy and tons of talent! As home to the most unpredictable night of entertainment around, you can find a show here nearly any night of the week (Tuesday through Saturday.) Like musicals? Check out “Hit and Run: Musical Improv” every Friday night for a totally new, totally improvised musical comedy. Or go for a decidedly classic spin with “Makeshift Shakespeare” and you’ll laugh along with the absurdity of The Bard’s own classic comedy paired with some insane improv talent. Plus, if you’re looking to dip your toe into the world of improv comedy, you’ll find loads of classes and workshops here. Whether you’re looking to perform yourself, or you’re a fan of improvised comedy and want to enjoy a truly side-splitting night of entertainment, then RISE Comedy Playhouse is the place for you.
Bovine Metropolis Theater
1527 Champa St
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 758-4722
www.bovinemetropolis.com
If you’re a fan of unscripted comedy, then you might already know about Bovine Metropolis in Denver. Since 1996 this local venue has been home to both classes and performances for Denver’s improv comedy scene. Regular shows include the “Improv Hootenanny,” which has run Mondays at 7:30 PM for the last 17 years. The “hootenanny” opens its doors to all sorts of improv teams with a variety of experience, and each take turns on the stage to show off their undeniable improv chops. There’s also the annual “Denver’s Next Improv Star” which is now in its ninth season. This weekly elimination-style competition show is always a great time as it leads up to the ultimate title of Denver’s Next Improv Star! Get the calendar of events and find some great improv to check out at www.bovinemetropolis.com.
ComedySportz at The Avenue Theatre
417 E 17th Ave
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 321-5925
www.cszdenver.com
The Avenue Theatre has been home to many local improv groups over the years, and is now excited to be hosting the Denver chapter of the national improv comedy show – “ComedySportz.” This competition game show pits two teams of improv comics against each other (complete with a referee) playing up to 12 different games every match. It’s always different, always improvised and always hilarious. You can visit the website to find out who will be competing each night so you can visit often to cheer on your favorite local talents.
So what are you waiting for? Get out of your dinner-and-a-movie rut this weekend and go laugh until your sides ache at any of these great improv comedy hot spots in Denver.