UPTOWN IMPROV CO. is Utica’s home for live, unscripted comedy, improv shows, and creative community experiences. Located inside the historic Uptown Theatre, we produce high-energy improv performances, host workshops and classes for all ages, and present special events that bring artists and audiences together.

We offer weekly live comedy shows, improv training for adults and youth, corporate and educational workshops, and annual festivals featuring performers from across the region. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out, improv classes in Utica, or creative programming for schools and organizations, Uptown Improv Co. is a welcoming space for laughter, connection, and creative growth.

“Life is improvisation.  Saying yes allows you to move forward.”  -Tina Fey

WHAT IS IMPROV?

Improvisation (improv) is a form of live theater where the story, characters, and dialogue are created on the spot. Using a single audience suggestion, trained improvisers work together in real time — listening, agreeing, and supporting one another — to build an original world from nothing. Improv is spontaneous, collaborative, and completely unscripted. Every performance is different, shaped by the energy of the room and the ideas of the audience. The result is a live improv comedy experience that can be laugh-out-loud funny, unexpectedly moving, and always one-of-a-kind. At Uptown Improv Co., improv isn’t just entertainment — it’s a creative practice that builds confidence, connection, and community in Utica and the Mohawk Valley. The best way to understand it is to experience it live.

WHY TAKE AN IMPROV CLASS?

Improv classes help you build real-world skills while having fun. Through live, unscripted exercises and scene work, students develop abilities that translate far beyond the stage, including:

• Teamwork and collaboration

• Thinking on your feet and adapting to new information in real time

• Self-confidence and presence

• Public speaking and communication skills

• Being fully in the moment

• Supporting the ideas of others without judgment

At Uptown Improv Co., our classes teach the fundamentals of improvisation, including agreement (“Yes, and…”), active listening, and how to create funny, engaging scenes together. Whether you’re brand new to improv or looking to sharpen your skills, our classes are designed to be welcoming, practical, and fun.

COMEDY WRITING

Uptown Improv Co.’s comedy writing program focuses on the fundamentals of creating original comedy for the stage and screen. Students learn how to develop strong characters and build clear, premise-driven sketches for live performance and digital shorts.

IMPROV FOR KIDS AND TEENS

Improv is a fun, welcoming way for kids and teens to play, perform, and make new friends. Through age-appropriate games and exercises, students build confidence, strengthen listening skills, use their imagination, and learn how to collaborate with others — all while having a great time.

Our youth improv classes introduce the fundamentals of improvisation in a supportive, low-pressure environment. No prior experience is needed, and the skills students learn — creativity, communication, and teamwork — extend far beyond the stage and stay with them for years.

CORPORATE & TEAM BUILDING WORKSHOPS

Uptown Improv Co. offers corporate improv workshops designed to strengthen communication, collaboration, and creativity. Using the same skills that power great improv comedy — listening, adaptability, and trust — we help teams think on their feet and work more effectively together.

Our workshops are customized to meet your organization’s goals, whether you’re focused on team building, leadership development, cross-department communication, or simply creating a fun, energizing shared experience. Led by experienced improv instructors, each session is interactive, engaging, and accessible to participants of all backgrounds. Learn more here.

PAYMENT PLANS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Uptown Theatre for Creative Arts is committed to making our classes and programs accessible to everyone. Payment plans and limited scholarships are available to help reduce financial barriers to participation.

If cost is a concern, we encourage you to reach out to our Training Center Director using the button below. We’re happy to help you find an option that works.