The Heat

The Improv Centre’s 3rd annual THE HEAT: International Improv Comedy Showcase blazes back onto Granville Island! For five nights, global comedy takes over our stage as visiting improv stars from England, the USA, and Aotearoa / New Zealand along with our ensemble – and audiences don’t need their passport to see them. In this festival, each show pairs two teams, merging distinct cultures, comedic instincts, and improv traditions into brand-new formats built in the moment. Expect surprising viewpoints, unconventional storytelling, and spontaneous humour shaped by the countries these artists call home. During the week, each team also takes over a spotlight showcase, leading the second half in their signature style — so audiences can pick their favourite flavour of funny.

Come experience improv that’s travelled continents to reach you, right here at home, as our visiting artists bring THE HEAT to warm up your winter and fire up your imagination.