About Seattle
Seattle, Washington, is one of the most popular cities in the United States. Located in the Pacific Northwest region of the country, Seattle is famous for its stunning views of Mt. Rainier, lush green forests, and miles of Puget Sound coastline. It's also renowned for being a music, art, and entertainment hub. In addition to its vibrant music and cultural scene, Seattle is home to an exciting variety of improv events held throughout the year.
The improv scene in Seattle is thriving, with a wide variety of events and workshops throughout the city. Whether you're looking for a creative outlet or want to laugh until your sides hurt, there's something for everyone to enjoy at these lively performances. The local improv scene has grown from small basement shows into full-on theater productions that feature seasoned actors and comedians worldwide. These events boast knowledgeable performers and offer workshops on improvisational tactics so all attendees can learn how to express themselves with confidence and joy in a nurturing environment.
Improv Options in Seattle
- Lighting
Theatrical lighting can be manipulated to create the atmosphere or look you desire. Stage lights are typically arranged in a grid above the platform to achieve this aesthetic. There is no shortage of types of illumination available for use - spotlights, gobos, and floodlights all lend themselves well to creating unique visuals that bring your performance alive.
- Equipment Rentals
You'll need the right equipment for an improv show - a sound system, projector and screen, and comfortable seating for your viewers. Whether renting from a company or borrowing from another venue or organization, acquiring the necessary items guarantees that your performance is remembered.
- Videographers
Record the marvels of an improv show by having someone equipped with a professional video camera or even just their smartphone document each moment. This allows you to relive your experience for years to come!
Improv Vendors in Seattle
- Broken Bench Productions
Broken Bench Productions produces professional quality videos that capture the attention of large and small corporations and non-profit organizations. The experienced team of video experts uses their passion for storytelling to craft powerful visuals that captivate audiences and promote clients' visions. Having professionals cover the improv event will help promote the area, build a reputation, and build a brand without needing to pay extra for PR or marketing. The clips from each event can also be used as marketing collateral for future improv events.
- Skyline Electrical Services
Skyline Electrical Services has a stellar reputation for superior customer service and great prices. They provide a wide selection of services, including commercial services, electric panel repair, EV charging station installation, deck construction/ replacement, lighting installations, and deck design for improv spaces, theaters, auditoriums, and more.
- PRG Seattle
With the largest inventory of equipment and a dedicated team of experts available 24/7, PRG Gear is the go-to company for audio, video, lighting, LED, cameras, rigging, media servers, projectors, computers, fiber, and more for your improv event. PRG Gear takes meticulous care in ensuring the quality of its equipment and continually invests in upgrading its inventory to meet clients' needs worldwide.
Pros and Cons of Improv Events in Seattle
As the recent surge in improv spaces in the city attests, Seattle values creative flair and spontaneity. Still, there are benefits and drawbacks associated with these types of venues.
Advantages
- Improv events give performers a place to practice and hone their craft.
- They provide a venue for new and upcoming talent to showcase their skills.
- Audiences get a chance to see fresh material.
- Such events help foster a sense of community among Seattle comedians.
- Improv spaces help support the local comedy scene.
Disadvantages
- The cost of renting or owning an improv space can be prohibitively expensive.
- Such spaces can be challenging to find and book last minute.
- They may not be accessible to all audiences due to location or cost.
- They can be noisy and disruptive to neighboring businesses.
- They may not always be available for drop-in or open-mic nights.
Tips on How to Organize Improv Events in Seattle
Take the fear out of organizing an improv space - with these easy steps, you will have it spick-and-span in no time! Following these recommendations can help make your process smooth and stress-free.
- Identify an ideal spot - Before formally arranging your improv room, it is essential to identify a place that works best for the space.
- Furnish the space - Once you have found a suitable location, it's time to start furnishing it. You'll need to determine what furniture you need and where it will go. You'll likely need chairs, tables, and storage shelves for an improv space.
- Create a floor plan - Once you have the furniture, it's time to create a floor plan. This will help you determine how the space will be used and how people will move around.
- Name your improv space - Give it a name that reflects its purpose. This will make it easier for people to remember and find when they need it.
- Promote your improv space - Make sure that people know about your new improv space. Promote it through social media, flyers, or word-of-mouth.
- Use your improv space wisely - Once you have an organized and well-promoted improv space, use it wisely! Make sure that people respect the space and follow the rules you have set forth for the use of the space.
Famous Locations in Seattle
- The 1st African Methodist Episcopal Church
Established in 1891 by African-American migrants from the American South, Seattle's 1st African Methodist Episcopal Church is an iconic landmark that has had a pervasive impact on the city's past. This special place of worship provided a powerful gathering point for social and political activity among the African American community. As one of the oldest churches in Seattle, this beautiful establishment has been preserved into a magnificent museum commemorating Seattle's history and an important cultural center hosting events to honor African-American culture.
- Elliott Bay
Seattle's Elliott Bay Book Company is an independent bookstore that offers a charming haven of books for all ages. The store encompasses an expansive and delightful kids' section, complete with a little reading nook shaped like a castle. The store also provides several occasions for children, such as when an author visits or during storytime. Visitors to the store should pick up a copy of Wheedle on the Needle, a brilliant children's book based in Seattle.
- The Funko Headquarters
The Funko Headquarters, located 30 minutes from the bustling streets of Seattle, is like a dream come true for many collectors. Full-sized replicas and elaborate designs around different corners of the headquarters, such as Star Wars, Disney, DC Comics, and Harry Potter - all contribute to a truly remarkable experience. What makes the tour even more special is the amazing attention to detail in each area, from the iconic Disney Castle setup to the Batmobile.