ImprovBoston Is Closing After 40 Years
It’s officially the end of an era. Sadly, after 40 years the ImprovBoston comedy theater will be closing. In fact, there are only about two weeks remaining, as the close date is set for December 31.
“After over 40 years, thousands of shows, tens of thousands of students and hosting and training some of the best comic voices in Boston – the organization announced today it can no longer fiscally and operationally sustain going forward,” ImprovBoston stated on their website.
Initially formed in the early 1980’s ImprovBoston became the comedy place to be in the city. In addition to consistently hilarious comedy shows, the theater offered highly respected comedy classes.
Recognizable Alumni
Many comedians, actors, and actresses have come through ImprovBoston over the years. Some of the most notable names include Cameron Esposito (actress, comedian), Josh Gondelman (comedy writer), and Katie Nolan (sports personality).
Furthermore, ImprovBoston became a very highly regarded resume stamp. For example, shows like Chelsea Lately, Conan O’Brien, and Real Time With Bill Maher all had ImprovBoston alumni on their staff at some point.
ImprovBoston Board of Directors chair Tammi Pirri Day issued a statement saying, “While trying to maintain operations over the last three years has been incredibly challenging, ImprovBoston is proud to have taught many students the art of Improv. While we wish the outcome was different, we are honored to have served this great community for so long.”
Struggles maintaining funding and capacity audiences remained among significant challenges since 2020. “This is incredibly difficult, everyone at ImprovBoston worked extremely hard over these last three years to keep our doors open – from Leadership to our Touring Company, Instructors, Techs, Staff, Ensemble Members, volunteers and students,” Managing Director, Matt Laidlaw.
For those looking for comedy club options in the greater Boston area, you can still check out Laugh Boston in the Seaport district and Nick’s Comedy Stop on Warrenton Street. While there has not been any mention of a final show at ImprovBoston before the end of month closing date, there are a good number of comedians coming to town soon. This includes Jim Gaffigan and Pete Davidson.
