Stay Connected With IO

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Learn, Create, Laugh
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Learn, Create, Laugh
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Learn, Create, Laugh
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The iO Training Center is the home of longform improvisation, where comedy legends such as Amy Poehler, Tina Fey, Chris Farley, Tim Meadows and so many others launched their careers . Whether you are new to improv, or looking to advance your skills, we have a ton of great classes to choose from. 

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where performers can practice the art of longform improvisation through various forms. Join us in this thrilling endeavor to create something that has never been seen before and will never be seen again. 

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Improv as an Art Form

The Beating Heart of True Chicago Comedy

– Award Winning Instruction:

Our award-winning instructorsfeature veteran improvisers who have performed and taught around the world for over 20 years, as well as up and coming talent that is at the cutting edge of the comedy scene. They have been featured on Comedy Central, HBO, and other major networks and late-night comedy specials.

– Curriculum 40 Years in the Making:

Our curriculum has been developed by some of the best performers in the world for over 40 years. We take pride in constantly evaluating and evolving what it means to make comedy in the modern day while building off the ground-breaking work of those who came before us.

– Curated Feedback:

We treat improv as an art form because it is. Our curated student feedback targets each individual’s needs for maximum personal and professional growth. We take a holistic approach to building our students as performers so that you can leave more confident in all things you do.

IMPROV CLASSES

Levels 1 - 5

Ensemble

Character

Scene Work

Longform

Advanced longform

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EVERYTHING ELSE

All our class offerings, from drop-ins to writing!

SUMMER INTENSIVES

WORKSHOPS

WRITING

DROP INS

ACTING

MUSICAL IMPROV

Improv Scholarship

Now Accepting Applications on a Rolling Basis!

The iO Theater prioritizes diversity in all of its programming. We are excited to offer free programming from our entire curriculum Level 1-5 to scholarship recipients.

The application is open to all. LGBTQIA+ identifying members, disabled persons, and persons of color are strongly encouraged to apply and reach out to artistic director Adonis Holmes with any questions.

Applications are accepted year round and recipients will be notified on a rolling basis.

Scholars will also receive additional workshop, performing, and specialty opportunities.

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LEVEL 1

ENSEMBLE

The best improvisers can play with anyone. This level introduces the most important concept of iO’s signature style of improvisation; teamwork. Learn to collaborate and play through group exercises, while gaining some friends along the way.

*Schedule may change based on availability. Terms and conditions apply.

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LEVEL 2

CHARACTER

Discover your personal point of view. Learn how to create honest and memorable characters while being a supportive teammate. This level will teach you that the next hilarious character you play is right in front of you!

*Schedule may change based on availability. Terms and conditions apply.

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LEVEL 3

SCENE WORK

Teamwork makes scenes work. There are many elements of a scene, from dialogue and object work, to environment and subtext, which is all being discovered in the moment! Through this level, you will have a better sense of how to keep scenes interesting while supporting your scene partner.

*Schedule may change based on availability. Terms and conditions apply.

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LEVEL 4

LONGFORM

Stories will be told, worlds will collide, and relationships will be tested. Here, you will dive deeper into iO’s world-renowned longform philosophy. The three previous levels of Ensemble, Character, and Scene Work culminate into the core concept of longform improv; Groupmind.

*Schedule may change based on availability. Terms and conditions apply.

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LEVEL 5

ADVANCED LONGFORM

Explore together further as an ensemble. Your class will develop your own longform style based on what you’ve learned about longform and each other.

*Schedule may change based on availability. Terms and conditions apply.