🌟 Famous Improvisers You Know and Love
So many legendary comedians and actors began their careers in improv comedy theaters before becoming household names. Some of the most famous alumni include: Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Will Ferrell, Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy, Kate McKinnon, Dan Aykroyd, Ryan Reynolds, Bill Murray.
All of them studied and performed at renowned American improv schools before rising to stardom. You could be next.
👉 Want to follow in their footsteps? Take your first class today
🏙️ Famous Improv Theaters in the U.S.
Many of the world’s greatest comedians got their start at these iconic American improv institutions—places where improv became a craft, a culture, and a career path:
- The Second City – Chicago, IL
- iO Theater – Chicago, IL
- Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) – New York & Los Angeles
- The Groundlings – Los Angeles, CA
- The Annoyance Theatre – Chicago, IL
At American Improv, we proudly bring this Chicago-style and UCB-style improv training to Vienna—right here in the heart of Europe.
👉 Experience real American-style improv in Vienna: Sign up for Improv 101
🏆 What Makes Our Improv Unique?
At American Improv, we specialize in Chicago-style improv, known for its emotional realism, ensemble focus, and long-form storytelling. We also incorporate the best of other U.S. traditions—game-based improv, organic scenework, and strong narrative arcs.
- Chicago-Style: Originating from The Second City and iO, this form centers on realistic characters and shared games.
- Organic: Scenes develop naturally—no prewritten ideas, just authentic interaction.
- Story-Driven: We teach improv as a form of storytelling—with beginnings, middles, and satisfying ends.
Whether you want to become a performer or just sharpen your creativity, improv offers tools you’ll use for life.
👉 Explore these methods in Improv 101
🧠 Core Principles of Improvisation
Borrowed from the best minds in improv—like Tina Fey, Del Close, and Viola Spolin—these principles are your foundation:
- Yes, And: Accept what’s offered and build on it.
- Make Strong Choices: Don’t hesitate. Move forward with purpose.
- Support Your Scene Partners: Make others look good—because their success is your success.
- Embrace Mistakes: Failure is fuel. The best moments are the ones no one saw coming.
👉 Learn by doing. Improv 101 starts here
🎓 Why Take an Improv Class?
Improv is for everyone—not just aspiring actors. Whether you're a student, teacher, entrepreneur, or artist, improv helps you think faster, listen better, and connect more deeply with others.
You’ll build skills that apply far beyond the stage:
- Public speaking
- Creative problem-solving
- Empathy and emotional intelligence
- Confidence under pressure
- Team collaboration
Our classes are fun, beginner-friendly, and open to all levels.
👉 Curious? Try your first improv class in Vienna: Improv 101
Ready to Jump In?
Improv is an art form that will change how you think, speak, and connect—with others and yourself. Come laugh, play, and discover your creative voice.
📅 Sign up today for Improv 101 – no experience needed, just curiosity and a sense of adventure.