About the Shows
The Improv Shop hosts a variety of shows, each with its own format, flavor, and community. Here's a guide to what's on stage.
Cagematch
Cagematch, which was originally created by Kevin Mullaney (former Artistic Director at the UCB Theater), returns for the 2026 Regular Season! Cagematch is a friendly, competitive longform improv show where the audience votes for their favorite team. The winner moves plays again the following week, always!
House Teams
Three Improv Shop House Teams take the stage! Each week you’ll see different styles and flavors of longform improv, all in a nice little three set package. Stick around afterwards for The Jam for your opportunity to play along, or just sit back and watch!
Merry-Go-Round
Merry-Go-Round is a rotating showcase format where multiple teams share the bill in a single evening of improv. The show keeps things fresh by featuring different groups each time, giving audiences a variety of styles and a chance to discover new favorites in the STL improv community.
School Night
School Night is the show for students and newer improvisers at The Improv Shop. It serves as a platform for those developing their skills to perform in front of a live audience, bridging the gap between classroom training and full ensemble performance. It's a nurturing, supportive environment that celebrates growth.
The Menagerie
The Menagerie is a showcase featuring a curated mix of improv acts, styles, and formats. It's a highlight reel of what makes the STL improv scene so diverse, bringing together performers from across the community for one eclectic night of comedy.