Each show at the Improv generally features three comics. One up-and-coming comedian serves as emcee for the evening, the second performs a longer routine, and the show winds up with an even longer performance by the headlining act. Upcoming headliners include Colin Quinn from Comedy Central's "Tough Crowd;" Kathleen Madigan, a "Last Comic Standing" winner; and Tommy Davidson, an alum of "In Living Color."
Be prepared for close quarters, particularly at popular or sold-out shows. The club itself is fairly small, and there are no bad seats in the house. However, to make that happen, the club owners pack the chairs closely together. Plan to be up close and personal with your neighbors, as well as the comedians you may have only seen on television prior to the show.
Showtimes are generally Tuesday through Thursday at 8:30 p.m., and Friday through Sunday at 8 p.m., with additional shows at 10:30 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, and occasionally on other nights if a particular comedian has a big enough draw.
The club offers a full menu of California-inspired cuisine and traditional bar food, as well as beer, wine and plenty of fun cocktails like the Frozen Cheesecake and Miami Ice that hearken back to the 1980s. There's a two-drink minimum per person, so come prepared to order something, whether it be food or drink.
The Improv also offers classes through the DC Improv Comedy College. Aspiring comedians can take seminars in improvisational comedy and stand-up technique, and teens can participate in the Improv Teen Summer Camp from July 18-23. The club offers more serious seminars, as well, including public speaking and self-hypnosis. For more information on the classes, check out the course listings online. The D.C. Improv is located at 1140 Connecticut Avenue, NW, one-half block up Connecticut Avenue from the Farragut North Metro Station on the Red Line. Parking is available on the street, as well as in the PMI Parking lot next door. Parking in the garage is $7 for the evening with validation at the club.
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