faq - general
What is jet city improv?
We are an improvised theater company located in the University District neighborhood of Seattle, WA.
Since 1992, we’ve been performing anywhere from five to eight shows every weekend, each show using audience suggestions and interaction to create comedy in a variety of scenes, games, songs and stories. All of the shows we do are improvised – you won’t see any stand-up sets or sketch comedy here.
We also offer improv classes for adults, interactive improv shows that can travel to YOUR location, company or event, and corporate communication and team-building training.
Since 1992, we’ve been performing anywhere from five to eight shows every weekend, each show using audience suggestions and interaction to create comedy in a variety of scenes, games, songs and stories. All of the shows we do are improvised – you won’t see any stand-up sets or sketch comedy here.
We also offer improv classes for adults, interactive improv shows that can travel to YOUR location, company or event, and corporate communication and team-building training.
What is improv?
Improvisational theatre, or improv, is the form of theatre, often comedy, in which most or all of what is performed is unplanned or unscripted: created spontaneously by the performers.
In its purest form, the dialogue, action, story, and characters are created collaboratively by the performers, on the spot, right in front of the audience There is never a written script for these performances, but sometimes there is a pre-planned structure or skeleton to the show or story.
In shirt, it's a group of people on stage, taking suggestions from the audience, and creating a story immediately.
It is NOT stand-up comedy, and it is NOT sketch comedy.
In its purest form, the dialogue, action, story, and characters are created collaboratively by the performers, on the spot, right in front of the audience There is never a written script for these performances, but sometimes there is a pre-planned structure or skeleton to the show or story.
In shirt, it's a group of people on stage, taking suggestions from the audience, and creating a story immediately.
It is NOT stand-up comedy, and it is NOT sketch comedy.
I hear there is Audience interaction? Like, Shouting stuff out?
Each show we perform will have some audience interaction (usually in the form of shouting out suggestions in response to the host on stage asking a simple questions such as "What is your favorite color?" or "What is a location you once visited?"), but your participation at any Jet City Improv show is purely voluntary. No one is going to drag you on stage without your consent; so sit close to the stage without any worries!
Of course, contributing to the show is strongly encouraged; you could win a valuable prize! Or just see the glorious creation of the show that YOU had some input in creating! Just be respectful and remember, if the show you are attending is an all-ages show don’t yell out anything that little kids or someone's Grandmother wouldn't want to hear!
Of course, contributing to the show is strongly encouraged; you could win a valuable prize! Or just see the glorious creation of the show that YOU had some input in creating! Just be respectful and remember, if the show you are attending is an all-ages show don’t yell out anything that little kids or someone's Grandmother wouldn't want to hear!
Why do you do this? Why don't you just use a script?
Frankly, because it is what we set out to do, and it is what we do well!
We believe that improvised theater can be more vibrant and collaborative than scripted theater, sketch or stand-up, because in order to do improv, you have to be fully present in the moment. As an improviser, we learn to listen actively, have full ownership of our own choices and words, and treat the audience as participant (not just as a spectator) to be co-creators in the art that happens on stage.
We believe that improvised theater can be more vibrant and collaborative than scripted theater, sketch or stand-up, because in order to do improv, you have to be fully present in the moment. As an improviser, we learn to listen actively, have full ownership of our own choices and words, and treat the audience as participant (not just as a spectator) to be co-creators in the art that happens on stage.
Where are you located?
In short: We're in Seattle, but we are currently in our nomadic phase.
In 2020, the theater that Jet City Improv had been inhabiting for over 17 years was sold and is slated for demolition. We are actively seeking out a new long-term home as well as short-term and pop-up performance spaces.
Please follow us on Facebook, on Instagram, or join our mailing list. (Links in the footer of this page.)
In 2020, the theater that Jet City Improv had been inhabiting for over 17 years was sold and is slated for demolition. We are actively seeking out a new long-term home as well as short-term and pop-up performance spaces.
Please follow us on Facebook, on Instagram, or join our mailing list. (Links in the footer of this page.)
I heard you are moving?
That is correct. The 5510 University Way building (our big yellow theater that we have inhabited for over 17 years) is scheduled for demolition, to be replaced by single-occupant housing.
For Fall 2021, most of our shows will be at the University Heights Center Auditorium (5031 University Way NE).
At the moment we are exploring a number of venues in Seattle to house us for performances and classes in the meantime, while we look into more permanent digs. Follow us on social media and be a part of our journey during our "nomadic phase"!
For Fall 2021, most of our shows will be at the University Heights Center Auditorium (5031 University Way NE).
At the moment we are exploring a number of venues in Seattle to house us for performances and classes in the meantime, while we look into more permanent digs. Follow us on social media and be a part of our journey during our "nomadic phase"!
What safety precautions do you have in place to protect us from covid?
Please click here to read about our safety plan.
faq - shows
What shows do you have?
When are your shows?
Our shows are typically Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 7:30pm and 10:00pm, and Saturdays at 7:30pm and 10:00pm. (When quarantine is not happening, that is. For now, our schedule is a little more erratic than than.) Please visit our calendar page for specific shows/showtimes.
where are your shows?
For the past 17 years, we have been housed at 5510 University Way NE. However, beginning in 2021, we will be entering our nomadic phase (as our current building will be demolished).
For Fall 2021, most of our shows are happening at the University Heights Center (5031 University Way NE, Seattle).
Please follow us on social media and join our email list to keep up with our journey!
For Fall 2021, most of our shows are happening at the University Heights Center (5031 University Way NE, Seattle).
Please follow us on social media and join our email list to keep up with our journey!
WHat is Audience interaction?
Each show we perform will have some audience interaction (usually in the form of shouting out suggestions in response to the host on stage asking a simple questions such as "What is your favorite color?" or "What is a location you once visited?"), but your participation at any Jet City Improv show is purely voluntary. No one is going to drag you on stage without your consent; so sit close to the stage without any worries!
Of course, contributing to the show is strongly encouraged; you could win a valuable prize! Or just see the glorious creation of the show that YOU had some input in creating! Just be respectful and remember, if the show you are attending is an all-ages show don’t yell out anything that little kids or someone's Grandmother wouldn't want to hear!
Of course, contributing to the show is strongly encouraged; you could win a valuable prize! Or just see the glorious creation of the show that YOU had some input in creating! Just be respectful and remember, if the show you are attending is an all-ages show don’t yell out anything that little kids or someone's Grandmother wouldn't want to hear!
Is there swearing? Lovemaking? Graphic violence?
Probably not, but possibly. It depends on the show!
Each show's web page has information on the age appropriateness (or inappropriateness) for that particular show. Click here to see what’s currently playing and click on a show’s name to learn more about the content you can expect.
Although some shows my have adult-oriented language or content, we will not turn anyone away at the door based their age.
Each show's web page has information on the age appropriateness (or inappropriateness) for that particular show. Click here to see what’s currently playing and click on a show’s name to learn more about the content you can expect.
Although some shows my have adult-oriented language or content, we will not turn anyone away at the door based their age.
When will the show be over? How long is the show?
All of our shows are scheduled to run roughly 90 minutes (with a ten-minute intermission).
What do you have to eat and drink?
While we are in our nomadic phase, that will depend on the venue we are performing at. Most spaces will have beverages and small snacks, such as bags of chips.
Can I bring in my own food or drinks?
Sorry, but unless you’ve booked the theater for your own private event, there is no outside food or drink.
If you want to bring this up with someone, bring it up with the gentleman who brought in his own kimchi and then disposed of it in a bathroom trash bin where it sat for two days undiscovered, thereby totally justifying this rule.
If you want to bring this up with someone, bring it up with the gentleman who brought in his own kimchi and then disposed of it in a bathroom trash bin where it sat for two days undiscovered, thereby totally justifying this rule.
Do you travel? Can i hire you to bring some improv to my event?
Yes! Please click here for more info!
faq - tickets and seating
what are your ticket prices?
Our tickets are usually $12-$18. For more info, click here.
Are there any discounts on tickets I can take advantage of?
Maybe! Advance tickets are just $15 to begin with, and that price drops to $12 if you’re a student (with a valid student ID) or can prove you are over 55. Plus, we offer group discounts for groups of 10 or more that buy a block of tickets all at once. Additionally, follow us on social media and join our newsletter where we will advertise occasional discounted tickets.
Can I buy tickets at the box office?
We do have a box office, but ticket prices there are are $1 more than advanced (web sale) tickets. Plus, it’s only open for the 30 minutes prior to each show and there may not be tickets available by the time you arrive. The best and only way to guarantee yourself a seat is to buy a ticket online. You can learn about our ticket prices here.
What if I can’t make it to the show – can I get my ticket refunded? Or changed to another date?
Where will I be sitting? Are my seats reserved?
Seating is on a first-come first-served basis. The doors open 30 minutes before showtime. The earlier you arrive, the better seats you will have as your choice. (And you’ll have ample time to visit the concessions stand, bar, restroom…
If you do need special seating (e.g. for a wheelchair or other), please let us know in the comment field when you purchase your tickets.
If you do need special seating (e.g. for a wheelchair or other), please let us know in the comment field when you purchase your tickets.
Do you have wheelchair seating available?
For our shows at University Heights, the current wheelchair lift system is under repair. The theater is on the second floor of the building. We apologize greatly that at this time we cannot assist with transporting patrons with ambulatory issues to the theater.
For shows happening at other theaters that our shows may be performing at during our 'nomadic phase,' please contact us at reservations@jetcityimprov.org
For shows happening at other theaters that our shows may be performing at during our 'nomadic phase,' please contact us at reservations@jetcityimprov.org
I have TeenTix. How do I get my discounted tickets?
TeenTix is a day-of-event ticket program–that’s why the tickets are so cheap! If there are tickets available when the box office opens and you have your TeenTix pass, you can buy one. You can’t reserve a TeenTix ticket in advance. Instead, you’ll want to walk on up to the box office when it opens 30 minutes prior to showtime and see if there are any tickets left to purchase.
If you don’t have a TeenTix pass, you can get one here: http://www.teentix.org/
If you don’t have a TeenTix pass, you can get one here: http://www.teentix.org/
My friends and I are under 21. Can we see the show?
You sure can! Our theater is an all-ages venue. You just can't buy the alcohol that is being sold at the concessions stand.
Can I bring my kids to your show?
Yes! The Jet City Theater is an all-ages venue.
Each show's web page has information on the age appropriateness (or inappropriateness) for that particular show. Click here to see what’s currently playing and click on a show’s name to learn more about the content you can expect.
Although some shows my have adult-oriented language or content, we will not turn anyone away at the door based their age.
Each show's web page has information on the age appropriateness (or inappropriateness) for that particular show. Click here to see what’s currently playing and click on a show’s name to learn more about the content you can expect.
Although some shows my have adult-oriented language or content, we will not turn anyone away at the door based their age.
What if I have a VIP – a person with a birthday, anniversary, etc.?
Please let us know in the comment field when you buy your tickets, or tell the box office staff when you will arrive! And (depending on the show you are coming to see) we may be able to incorporate them or their suggestions into the show in a way that celebrates them!
Can I get some tickets donated to my fundraiser/auction?
Please visit the Contact Page, and use the form at the bottom of that page.
faq - getting here
what is your address again?
At the moment, we are in our "nomadic phase," and are doing performances throughout Seattle at a number of different venues.
Most of our Fall 2021 shows will be at the University Heights Center (5031 University Way NE, Seattle).
If you need to mail us anything, you can do so at:
4424 University Way NE
#95688
Seattle, WA 98105
Most of our Fall 2021 shows will be at the University Heights Center (5031 University Way NE, Seattle).
If you need to mail us anything, you can do so at:
4424 University Way NE
#95688
Seattle, WA 98105
Where do we park?
Limited parking is available in the University Heights parking lot. Additional parking can be found on the street in front of and surrounding the building. Despite the popular myth, the U District has plenty of parking spaces! Most parking is free after 6pm.
public transportation
King County Metro’s 45, 71, 72, and 73 routes all drop off right in front of the theater when northbound, just one block away southbound.
Don’t believe us? Use King County Metro’s Trip Planner!
Don’t believe us? Use King County Metro’s Trip Planner!
what about light rail?
Please stand by
faq - can i hire you?
Can I hire you to perform at my event?
Yes! We are available to come to YOUR location or event for a variety of offerings, including audience-interactive performances, improv workshops, and team-building training. Click here for all of our offerings.
How far will you travel?
Our home base is in Seatte, WA. We have traveled all over the state, as well as northern Oregon and even Nevada for clients! Additional charges may be incurred for events outside of the greater Seattle area.
How long are your performances?
Our shows-for-hire range from 25 to 90 minutes. Our workshops range from 30 minutes to four hours.
Are your shows Family friendly?
Yes, all of our shows contain language and content that is appropriate for all ages and will not make your HR department uncomfortable. However, we may include more adult fare if the client specifically requests it.
What is the cost to hire you?
For a quote for a performance/comedy show, please fill out the form on this page
For a quote for an improv workshop or training - email kate@jetcityimprov.org
For a quote for an improv workshop or training - email kate@jetcityimprov.org
can i hire you to teach me, or my company/team, to improvise, or communicate more effectively, or team-build?
Yes, indeed! Please check out this page for details and contact information.
faq - Improv classes
How Do I learn to improvise? Do you teach any classes?
Yes! The Jet City Improv Academy has classes every quarter. Many are one-night-per-week, for 6 or 8 weeks. We offer classes for beginners and experienced improvisers alike.
If you don't want to commit to a multi-week class, we have a weekly drop-in class called the Improv Dojo, as well as a variety of specialized improv jams.
If you don't want to commit to a multi-week class, we have a weekly drop-in class called the Improv Dojo, as well as a variety of specialized improv jams.
What if i've never done any improv, theater or comedy before? can i still take your classes?
Absolutely! Both the Improv Dojo and Improv 101 have no prior improv, acting, or public-speaking requirements.
What if I HAVE performed improv before, or taken classes with another organization – do I have to start at your improv 101?
Please contact our Education Director Kate Drummond, and she will help find the best place for you!
When are your classes?
Our classes tend to be one night per week (weekday evening), for 6 to 8 weeks.
The Improv Dojo is every Monday night (except for holidays).
Our improv jams tend to be on the weekends.
The Improv Dojo is every Monday night (except for holidays).
Our improv jams tend to be on the weekends.
Can you teach my employees or group to improvise, or work better as a team, or communicate better?
Yes, indeed! Please check out this page for details and contact information.
Help! I didn't see my question anywhere on this page.
Head on over to our Contact Page and find the appropriate department that you can direct your question towards!
