Back in June, we reported that auditions were to take place for new house teams at Glasgow Improv Theatre. Following these, The GIT is making history this September with the launch of six new House Teams, the biggest expansion since its founding in 2016. As part of their commitment to nurturing local talent, The GIT is also offering four weeks of free coachingto the new teams, while partner venue Acting Coach Scotlandwill be providing free rehearsal spaces. In total, this represents an investment of more than £1,000 in local performers and the growing Scottish improv scene.

GIT’s expansion will also see the introduction of Hamish Teams – a uniquely Scottish take on the popular ‘Harold’ format that is regularly performed at Upright Citizens Brigade: the comedy theatre and training centre that taught comedy superstars like Kate McKinnon, Ben Schwartz, and Donald Glover. Also joining the roster are Bounce House and Spread, innovative new formats that build on the success of GIT’s popular show Couch Surfs The Web.

Auditions for the new teams were held at Acting Coach Scotland’s spaces in July, attracting a record number of applicants – up more than 20% on last year. This reflects the rapidly growing interest in improv, and the GIT’s long-standing commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and community. “Improv is team based and extremely welcoming to beginners”, said Martin James of GIT, “we’re more worried about supporting each other and less worried about ‘failing’ individually, so it’s a safe space for people to be creative and perform without judgement”.

Nick Field of Acting Coach Scotland added: “At Acting Coach Scotland, we’re passionate about nurturing the next generation of performers. Supporting The GIT’s new teams with rehearsal space is a natural extension of our commitment to helping local talent thrive”.

Each new team features a handpicked line-up of improvisers from across Scotland’s thriving comedy scene, including an exciting mix of new talent and experienced performers. By bringing together this exciting mix of diverse voices, James hopes improve in Scotland is destined for great things: “launching six new teams at once is a landmark moment – not just for The GIT, but for improv in Scotland… we’re showing that Glasgow can invent, innovate, and push the art form forward. This feels like a real turning point for our community.”

Upcoming events for Glasgow Improv Theatre:

Harold Night (7pm), Hamish Night (8.30pm) – Tue 7 Oct 2025 at The Old Hairdressers, Glasgow
Bounce House & Spread double-bill (7pm & 8.30pm) – Tue 14 Oct 2025 at The Old Hairdressers, Glasgow

More information at www.improvglasgow.co.uk