With long-form improv surging in global popularity, Glasgow’s own scene steps up with monthly shows, free coaching, and open auditions for new teams this summer from the Glasgow Improv Theatre.

Glasgow Improv Theatre (The GIT), the city’s leading hub for improvised comedy, is set to hold open auditions for its ‘House Teams’ this summer, giving local talent a chance to perform regularly on stage and receive expert coaching.

This marks the latest expansion of Scotland’s rapidly growing improv scene, and reflects increased global attention in a comedy form that played a massive role in shaping hit TV shows like Saturday Night Live, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Comedy Bang Bang.

The successful auditionees will join one of two to four house teams, which will form a crucial part of The GIT’s regular performing schedule, alongside other shows like ‘Perfect Improv’, which has featured popular guest acts like Marc Jennings, Zara Gladman, and Josie Long.

Auditions are open to improvisers from all backgrounds – and no prior experience with The GIT is required. Each of the newly-formed house teams will receive four weeks of free coaching, monthly performing slots at The GIT, and the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most exciting talent in the local comedy scene.

Improv’s popularity is rising rapidly, with performers like Ben Schwartz recently selling out the Royal Albert Hall, and dedicated theatres opening across the world. Now, this once-niche American format is gaining serious traction here in Scotland – with more performers than ever, emerging local teams, and an ever-growing audience.

Martin James of Glasgow Improv Theatre said:

‘We are always blown away by the talent we see at our auditions, and this year we can already tell it’s going to be something special. The enthusiasm, the creativity, the sheer range of voices in the scene right now—it’s an exciting time to be doing improv in Scotland.‘

If you aren’t quite ready for an audition, The GIT runs regular Beginners’ Drop-In workshops and introductory ‘101’ courses. These provide a low-stakes, stress-way free way for newcomers to have a go, and join a very close-knit and welcoming community.

‘It’s not all about getting up on stage,’ adds Martin James, ‘A huge part of the appeal of improv is just making friends, building confidence, and having fun with new people. We’re really happy to be bringing those opportunities to people in Glasgow.’

Glasgow’s improv scene is growing—and this is your chance to help shape it. Learn more and apply here: improvglasgow.co.uk/performance-opportunities