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The DC Improv

The DC Improv
1140 Connecticut Av NW , Washington, DC 20036
The DC Improv
Downtown, Washington, D.C.
1140 Connecticut Av NW
Btwn L & M Streets NW
Washington, District of Columbia 20036

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Description

Improv comedy clubs have been recognized as the nation's premiere comedy venues -- and that's not just a brilliant marketing scheme. Founded by Budd Friedman, The Improv first opened in New York City in 1963. It was built as a venue for aspiring comedians to practice their craft in front of both the public and the entertainment industry.

The club's success sparked a mass expansion across America. Improv clubs popped up in Hollywood, Irvine, Las Vegas, Cleveland, Tempe, Addison, Tampa, Coconut Grove, Houston, Pittsburgh -- and of course, Washington, D.C.The Improv soon became the city's hot spot for live stand-up comedy. The best comics in the business got started at the Improv, including Robin Williams, David Letterman, Richard Pryor, Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno and Andy Kaufman.

The DC Improv opened its doors in 1992 under the direction of Mark Anderson. (Our first show featured Ellen DeGeneres, Dave Chappelle and Brian Regan!) For more than two decades, the club has hosted the best comedians in the country, showcasing both established superstars and up-and-coming talents.

Thanks to our intimate set-up and Washington's great crowds, the club has become a favorite venue for the comics themselves. Dozens of people have recorded stand-up albums here. Jerry Seinfeld came to the DC Improv when perfecting his "comeback" set, as seen in the 2002 documentary "Comedian." And just look at the lineup of headliners who joined us for our 20th anniversary celebration in 2012: Brian and Dennis Regan, Bill Burr, Jim Gaffigan, and Mike Birbiglia. (By the way, Mike used to work here as a door guy. You can read about our anniversary in the Washington Post Express.)

The DC Improv expanded its mission in 2003 by starting a comedy school with classes in both improv and stand-up comedy. Our instructors have helped thousands of people in the Washington area have fun and pursue their dreams. We expanded our performance space in 2006 by adding the comedy lounge, a showroom that seats about 60 people. If we think of more ways to expand, we'll be sure to let you know about it.

The DC Improv is more than just a comedy club. It represents a tradition of excellence and laughter. Thanks so much for being a part of our history. We couldn't do it without you.

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