Travel Information

What venue(s) will be a part of the festival?

The festival will be at The John Paul Theatre in northern Phoenix near The Torch Theatre and just north of downtown. Den parents will be assigned to each troupe to get them to and from the venue, so you won't have to worry about public transportation


What lodging options are available?

The Phoenix Improv Festival provides a hotel room or rooms for your ensemble on the night of your performance. If anyone is looking to stay additional nights, we can extend our rate to visitors. There are also several hotels and airbnbs in the airea.


What transportation options are available?

A local performer will be available and nearby the entire weekend to give rides wherever you want to go. (No really, they're there just for that purpose). The light rail doesn't go to the theatre, but it is nearby.


What dining options are available?

7th Avenue has a range of diners, fast food options and restaraunts. 7th avenue is within walking distance of the theatre. The corner of Central and Camelback is also nearby and has several pizza places and pubs. Den parents can also take you downtown. Some favorite eateries from past visitors include Cibo Pizza, Lo-Lo's Chicken and Waffles and Counter Burger.


What local events or attractions are available?

The Musical Instrument Museum is nearby. Many of downtown Phoenix's museums are also just south of the festival. Our local libraries have museum passes available for free check out to many local museums. Just ask your den parent if you'd like to go.

The Diamondbacs also play baseball nearby, but no games are scheduled during the festival.

Festival Information

How much stage time will performers receive?

Each group will recevie a 25 minute slot on the mainstage.


What is the range of shows and styles the festival is seeking?

We look for a variety of shows. Please include any longform, shortform, genre or alternative shows. We try to also mix duo shows with larger ensembles. We do hope to showcase diversity in our festival.


What is the local improv scene like?

Phoenix improv is very closely connected to the arts scene. We tend to attract audiences looking to be challenged artistically and intellectually. Blue shows are not unheard of if there's intent.


What are the festival's goals?

We constantly strive to showcase improv as a diverse artform that can be many things to any people. We also hope to make Phoenix a place known to improvisors as a place where expression is welcome.


What are the selection criteria for this festival?

We try to showcase shows that would not be available to groups in Phoenix