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 (3)
See all- Theatre Games and Improv Session in Osaka (Advanced and maybe relaxed)Ogimachi Museum Cube, Osaka¥800.00
Hello All!
Due to the highly requested events recently, we will potentially open this session up to relaxed (beginners) if we receive enough RSVPs! Personally, I hate to see people not getting in on all the fun and I want to make this as accessible as possible!
Therefore, if we get around TEN people on the waitlist, we'll open a second session!
Until then, I'll post the advanced information below:
********************ADVANCED IMPROVERS SESSION **********************
This session particularly for those who have over 6 months of improv experience, understand basic improv games, and have low to moderate proficiency in English. This will be an 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!
********************************************************************************
Check out our website for more: improvkansai.comDATE: 5/11/2025
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
- Theatre Game and Improv Session in Kyoto Sanjo (Relaxed)Kyoto City Higashiyama Ikiiki Citizen's Activity Center, Kyoto¥700.00
*The Venue is Higashiyama Ikiiki Center in Sanjo, not Shimogyo Ikiiki Center in Shichijo!*
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: Relaxed] This session is focusing on having fun in relaxed atmosphere. We will play easy-to-learn short form improv games. Great for beginners, people wanting to learn more English, and those who get stress/anxiety easily.
--
DATE: Last Sunday of the month
PLACE: Kyoto-shi Higashiyama ikiiki Shimin Katsudo Center,
Meeting Room #103 (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
- 🏕️ Improv Summer Camp!! 🌲🦌🐿️🦨🐇🐗🌳Needs location¥1.00
Improv Summer Camp: Laugh, Dance, Eat, Drink, and Connect!
Join us for an unforgettable weekend at our Improv Summer Camp, where creativity and fun come together in the great outdoors! Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in laughter, relaxation, and connection. We'll kick things off with a BBQ feast, followed by a cozy bonfire under the stars.Throughout the weekend, we'll dive into improv games and exercises that will unlock your creativity and help you laugh like never before. There's no better place to express yourself and meet new friends.
We'll also take time to unwind with guided meditation, ensuring you leave feeling refreshed and recharged.What to Expect:
- BBQ, bonfire, and delicious food & drinks
- Improv games and exercises for all skill levels
- Dance, sing, and let loose with fellow campers
- Meditation sessions to center yourself in the moment
This adults-only event is all about letting go of your inhibitions, connecting with others, and having a blast!
Venue: Kyoto YMCA Retreat Center (Map)
Price: ¥11,000 - ¥18,000 per person (final price under negotiation with the venue)
RSVP begins in May
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to spend a weekend filled with laughter, creativity, and new connections. We can't wait to see you there!
