About Los Angeles
As a global hub for the film and entertainment industries, Los Angeles has a reputation that precedes it. It overlooks the Pacific Ocean in Southern California, with sun-drenched beaches, engaging museums, and culturally rich neighborhoods to discover.
As home to some of the best comedy clubs in the U.S., Los Angeles is an ideal place to host an improv event. It boasts an extensive network of professional crews you can call upon, and a diversity of venues that range from private residences to purpose-built theaters.
Improv Options in Los Angeles
No matter the size or genre of your comedy event, you can find improv spaces in Los Angeles to suit your needs.
- Homes
From farm-style cottages to modern suburban homes, you can find a variety of residences to host your next improv event. They offer a cozy and familiar atmosphere that will instantly put your audience members at ease.
- Warehouses
Los Angeles’ warehouses offer an industrial setting that can range from run-down to super chic. They serve as a blank canvas for you to add your creative touch to, with plenty of space to work with.
- Studios
Planning an intimate improv event? You can find plenty of film studios in the L.A. area that come complete with all the sound and audio gear you need. Some are conveniently equipped with green rooms and behind-the-scenes spaces.
- Theaters
Los Angeles’ purpose-built theaters are an obvious choice for hosting your improv event, with sound and lighting gear, suitable seating, and ready-to-go stages all part of their appeal.
- Bars and Clubs
Many of Los Angeles’ bars and clubs are ideal for hosting improv events and can be rented for private shows on request. The fact that they come with fully-staffed and stocked bars only adds to their advantage.
Performance and Event Companies in Los Angeles
Need help finding your dream improv venue in Los Angeles or planning your event? You can secure the services of one of the city’s experienced event management companies to handle all the behind-the-scenes logistics.
- Sequoia Productions
Sequoia Productions plans, designs, and produces some of the most prestigious events in the city and offers a range of creative services. Whether you need assistance marketing your improv event or day-of management services, they will deliver a stress-free occasion.
- 360 Destination Group
With two decades of experience in the event planning industry, the 360 Destination Group is one of L.A.’s premier teams. They boast an enviable position on Sunset Boulevard and pride themselves on delivering clients a stress and hassle-free experience.
- A Wynning Event
A Wynning Event offers full-service event planning and design for weddings, corporate, and non-profit events, including improv shows. They have strong working relationships with some of L.A.’s leading vendors who can bring your improv event visions to life.
Pros and Cons of Improv Spaces in Los Angeles
Los Angeles’ international airport and network of experienced professionals are among the advantages of hosting an improv event here. But the high costs of living and heavy traffic are a couple of drawbacks to keep in mind.
Advantages
- Established industry
Los Angeles has a well-established comedy and improv industry, which means you already have prospective audience members who are willing to pay for standup shows.
- Diversity of venues
L.A. Improv spaces range from industrial-style lofts and warehouses to intimate theaters and neighborhood homes, meaning you can find a venue to suit your needs.
- Experienced professionals
Need sound engineers or stage crew to make your improv event a reality? Los Angeles has no shortage of professionals you can draw on who have extensive experience in the industry.
- Easy international connections
If you’ve got performers or guests arriving from out-of-state, they can easily get to and from your improv space thanks to the city's well-connected international airport.
- Phenomenal weather
With plenty of sunny and warm days throughout the year, Los Angeles is an ideal destination to host an improv event, either indoors or outdoors.
Disadvantages
- High costs of venues and services
Los Angeles’s property prices are soaring, and vendors are in high demand, so you may pay more to host an event here than in other parts of Southern California.
- High costs of living
Not only is Los Angeles a pricey place for a party, but the city’s costs of living are also high and should be taken into account if you’re planning on holding an event here.
- Traffic
Before booking your improv space, consider how easy it will be to get to in light of the city’s notorious traffic. It’s particularly bad in the early morning and late evening during the daily rush hours.
- Parking
Los Angeles parking spots are hard to find and this applies to the Downtown area and beyond. Expect to pay for parking and be prepared for a wait in some areas.
- Crime
Some L.A. neighborhoods have high crime rates and are best avoided.
Famous Comedy Locations in Los Angeles
- Hollywood Improv
First opened in 1974, this famous comedy club is part of The Improv chain originally founded in the New York City neighborhood of Hell’s Kitchen. It hosts an exciting calendar of standup shows throughout the year, accompanied by an enticing menu of American favorites and specialty cocktails.
- The Comedy Store
With names such as Dave Chappelle, Andy Kaufman, and Chris Rock having graced its stage, The Comedy Store is a standup staple on Sunset Boulevard. You can catch nationally-recognized names in the Original Room or see up-and-coming talents in the Belly and Main rooms.
- The Comedy Union
The Comedy Union is the first African-American-owned and operated comedy club in Los Angeles and showcases both new and veteran comedians. It has a laid-back atmosphere and stands directly opposite Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles, a legendary soul food restaurant chain founded by Herb Hudson.