What we’re about
Let’s have fun with theater games and improv! We are a group of people who love improvisational theater and comedy. Whether you want to unleash your creativity or try something new, everyone is welcomed!
What We Do
We play interactive communication games that spark creativity through spontaneous ideas and unexpected reactions. Improv—short for "Improvisational Theater"—is all about unscripted acting and living in the moment. Curious about what that looks like? Check out some examples here.
Where & When
We meet monthly at public parks or community centers in Kyoto and Osaka.
Who Can Join?
Our group is open to anyone aged 18 and above. Minors are welcome if accompanied by an adult.
If you have any physical disabilities or special needs, let us know at least a week before the session so we can make sure everyone can participate and have fun.
No Acting Experience? No Problem!
Most of our members started with no acting background. We offer two levels to suit everyone:
- Relaxed: Easy-to-learn short form improv games. Icebreakers. Stress-free simple games that will allow you to enjoy having fun. Great for beginners, people wanting to learn more English, and those who get stress/anxiety easily.
- Advanced: A session particularly for those who have over 6 months of improv experience and understand all the basic games. There will be more opportunity to grow and develop your improv and theater skills. We will play a lot more scene work, character-building, object work, and long form games. Get ready to laugh and learn!
Not sure where to start? Join a beginner session and see how it feels—you can always level up later!
English Proficiency
Since our sessions focus on creative interaction, you’ll need basic English communication skills. Don’t worry about being perfect—mistakes often lead to the best laughs!
If you’re unsure about your level, check out our videos for a better idea. If you can handle an emergency exit row on a flight, you’re good to go.
What to Bring
Just bring your energy and creativity! Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. For outdoor meetups, consider bringing a hat, jacket, bottled water, and sunscreen. And don’t forget cash for the session fee!
How Much Does It Cost?
Each session costs between ¥500–¥1000 to help cover venue rental and organizer fees.
What Does It Look Like?
Want a glimpse of the fun? Check out photos and videos from our past sessions here.
Our Policy
- This group is all about enjoying theater games and improv. If you’re joining for purposes like political or religious campaigning, business promotion, or searching for a romantic partner, we may ask you to leave.
- Comedy sometimes walks a fine line, and you might hear the occasional inappropriate or risqué joke (let's face it, a bit of cheekiness can be funny!). That said, if something crosses the line or you notice a slur targeting someone, please don’t hesitate to let the organizers know. We want everyone to feel safe and welcome as we share laughs together.
More questions?
Feel free to email the organizer!
"All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players..."
(updated on 2025/1/2)
Upcoming events
5
- ¥800.00
Theatre Games and Improv Session in Osaka (with SPECIAL GUEST!)
Ogimachi Museum Cube, 〒530-0052 大阪府大阪市北区南扇町6-26, CUBE 05, Osaka, JPHello All!
After a nice long Summer break, we're BACK in Osaka!
Starting our reunion off strong is none other than Canadian book-writer and speaker Guy Giard aka Mr. Happiness!
Guy comes all the way from Canada, promoting his new book: The Courage to Love. 愛する勇気: 苦しみからMr.ハピネスになるまでの物語 As a humanitarian clown with Dr. Patch Adams, he has spread his happiness, activism, and courage across various countries to make this planet a happier and nicer place to live, one smile at a time.
More info on his books and life here: www.guygiard.com
Sounds fun? Join us! <3
PLACE: Ogimachi Museum Cube 05
https://maps.app.goo.gl/7EZMF56yBSErSLVp9?g_st=ic
COST: ¥800
[Important Notes]
- Guy will take photos and videos during the meetup for PR purposes. If you feel uncomfortable with that, please let us know before the event starts so we can respect your privacy.
- If you need to cancel, please update your RSVP status accordingly so that other people can join.
Thank you for your cooperation, I'm looking forward to seeing you all soon!!
Check out our website for more: improvkansai.com
DATE: 10/12/2025
PLACE: Ogimachi Museum Cube05
COST: ¥800[Important Notes]
- If you are a first-timer, read our group policy and understand our purpose and the rules.
- We will take photos and videos during the meetup for PR purposes. If you feel uncomfortable with that, please let us know before the event starts so that we can put you out of the camera.
- If you need to cancel, please update your RSVP status accordingly so that other people can join. If you’re absent without notice twice, we may need to remove you from the group.
Thank you for your cooperation, I'm looking forward to seeing you all!!
Joshua
31 attendees - ¥800.00
Long Form Improv Session in Osaka (with SPECIAL GUEST!)
Ogimachi Museum Cube, 〒530-0052 大阪府大阪市北区南扇町6-26, CUBE 05, Osaka, JPHello All!
October is HERE! And Osaka is going strong with another special guest, Noah Telson! "Noah is a German American comedian/actor/improviser. He is a founding member of GLB, Berlin’s premier long form improv group and was a member of ComedySportz Berlin for 8 years."
See more on his website at: noahtelson.com
Additionally, this session will be limited for experienced improvisers/theater performers. Essentially, we're looking for folks who are looking to deepen their learning of improv beyond simply "yes, and".
I promise we'll do a fun event for everyone in November soon!
PLACE: Ogimachi Museum Cube 05
https://maps.app.goo.gl/7EZMF56yBSErSLVp9?g_st=ic
COST: ¥800
[Important Notes]
- Photos and videos will be taken during the meetup for PR purposes. If you feel uncomfortable with that, please let us know before the event starts so we can respect your privacy.
- If you need to cancel, please update your RSVP status accordingly so that other people can join.
Thank you for your cooperation, I'm looking forward to seeing you all soon!!
Check out our website for more: improvkansai.com
DATE: 10/19/2025
PLACE: Ogimachi Museum Cube05
COST: ¥800[Important Notes]
- If you are a first-timer, read our group policy and understand our purpose and the rules.
- We will take photos and videos during the meetup for PR purposes. If you feel uncomfortable with that, please let us know before the event starts so that we can put you out of the camera.
- If you need to cancel, please update your RSVP status accordingly so that other people can join. If you’re absent without notice twice, we may need to remove you from the group.
Thank you for your cooperation, I'm looking forward to seeing you all!!
Joshua
8 attendees - ¥700.00
🎃 Spooky Theatre Games and Improv Session in Kyoto! (Advanced) 👻
Kyoto City Higashiyama Ikiiki Citizen's Activity Center, Tatsumicho 442, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, JPGet ready for our annual tradition... Halloween-themed improv session! 👻
Join the world of improv and sketch comedy! Dive into the basics of acting, improve your comedic timing, and unleash your creativity in a supportive and fun environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to explore the world of performing arts or a seasoned artist searching for new inspiration, this workshop is perfect for anyone eager to learn and have fun. Check out some of our past sessions here.
[Level: Advanced] This session is for those who have over 6 months of improv experience and advanced English proficiency. There will be more opportunity to grow and develop your improv and theater skills. We will play a lot more scene work, character-building, object work, and long form games. Bring your favorite costume! 🎃🧙♀️🧟🦸🥷🧜🧚😈
--
DATE: Last Sunday of the month
PLACE: Kyoto-shi Higashiyama ikiiki Shimin Katsudo Center
(MAP)
ACCESS:
7 minutes walk from Keihan Sanjo Station Exit #1/#3
7 minutes walk from Subway Sanjo Keihan Station Exit #2
5 minutes walk from Subway Higashiyama Station Exit #2
COST: ¥700 (*Cash only)TIMETABLE:*Subject to change
2:00 Door Open
2:15 Meet & Greet
2:30 Session Start
3:30 Break
3:35 Resume
4:30 Wrap-up
4:45 Group photo, Restore the room layout
4:50 Leave the venue[Important Notes]
- If you are a first-timer, read our group policy and understand our purpose and the rules.
- We will take photos and videos during the meetup for PR purposes. If you feel uncomfortable with that, please let us know before the event starts so that we can put you out of the camera.
- If you need to cancel, please update your RSVP status accordingly so that other people can join. If you’re absent without notice twice, we may need to remove you from the group.
Come join us for a session filled with laughter, creativity, and a chance to connect with other like-minded individuals. Let's create some hilarious and memorable moments together!
Chiyo
33 attendees - ¥700.00
Theatre Games and Improv Session in Kyoto Sanjo! (Relaxed & Advanced)
Kyoto City Higashiyama Ikiiki Citizen's Activity Center, Tatsumicho 442, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, JPJoin the world of improv and sketch comedy! Dive into the basics of acting, improve your comedic timing, and unleash your creativity in a supportive and fun environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to explore the world of performing arts or a seasoned artist searching for new inspiration, this workshop is perfect for anyone eager to learn and have fun. Check out some of our past sessions here.
[Level: Relaxed & Advanced]
This is going to be the last session of the year in Kyoto, so it’s like whatever 🤪
We will meet in the room 301 first, and then split the group based on the experience.--
DATE: Last Sunday of the month
PLACE: Kyoto-shi Higashiyama ikiiki Shimin Katsudo Center Room 301
(MAP)
ACCESS:
7 minutes walk from Keihan Sanjo Station Exit #1/#3
7 minutes walk from Subway Sanjo Keihan Station Exit #2
5 minutes walk from Subway Higashiyama Station Exit #2
COST: ¥700 (*Cash only)TIMETABLE:*Subject to change
2:00 Door Open
2:15 Meet & Greet
2:30 Session Start
3:30 Break
3:35 Resume
4:30 Wrap-up
4:45 Group photo, Restore the room layout
4:50 Leave the venue
5:00 Drink near Sanjo area (Optional)[Important Notes]
- If you are a first-timer, read our group policy and understand our purpose and the rules.
- We will take photos and videos during the meetup for PR purposes. If you feel uncomfortable with that, please let us know before the event starts so that we can put you out of the camera.
- If you need to cancel, please update your RSVP status accordingly so that other people can join. If you’re absent without notice twice, we may need to remove you from the group.
Come join us for a session filled with laughter, creativity, and a chance to connect with other like-minded individuals. Let's create some hilarious and memorable moments together!
Chiyo
32 attendees
Past events
85
