- Expert faculty: Working comedians and UCB performers coach every class.
- Career launchpad: Our alumni headline SNL, Netflix, HBO, and late-night writers’ rooms.
- Life-changing skills: Faster thinking, deep listening, creative collaboration, thriving in uncertainty.
- Flexible options: NYC, LA, and live-online sections—weekday, weeknight, and weekend.
Comedy legends are born at UCB.
Develop your voice. Own the stage.
Improv classes available now in NYC, LA & Online
Founded in 1996 by Amy Poehler, Matt Besser, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh, Upright Citizens Brigade has launched the careers of hundreds of comedians on TV, film, and stage.
Why Learn Improv at UCB?
Who It's For
- Aspiring comedians, actors, and writers
- Anyone who wants to improve their public speaking, gain confidence, and grow creativity.
Step-by-Step Path
We recommend every UCB student starts with Improv 101 because strong improv skills are the foundation of all great comedy.
Improv 101: Improv Basics
The starting point for our Improv Program. This class serves as a comprehensive introduction to UCB’s unique take on comedy focused around the “game of the scene.”
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Improv 201: Game of the Scene
This class focuses on refining and expanding the fundamental skills learned in the previous level and introducing new concepts such as editing, group scenes, emotional engagement, and more.
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Improv 301: Harold Structure
Students are introduced to an improv structure called “The Harold.” Students will learn the structure, show openings, and how to generate ideas from the opening to create a show.
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Improv 401: Harold Workshop
The culmination of UCB’s improv program. Students, now with a solid understanding of scene work, game and Harold structure, will perform full Harolds both in class and in their class shows.
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