Mockingbird Improv was founded on the need to play. With everyone isolated at home amid a worldwide pandemic, playfulness was slowly draining from our lives. Improv theaters across the nation closed down, and some still remain closed. But those of us in San Diego who believe play, laughter, and connection are integral to being human did not give up hope.

In 2022, we set up a non-profit business, began performing and teaching in parks, dance studios - anywhere we could find. And a year later we have achieved wonderful things thanks to your generous support. We are in an amazing theater space that is built out and decorated, we have all levels of classes running and five different weekly shows performing each week.

For 2023, we are poised and ready to achieve the goal our mission spells out - to spread the benefits of improv to all members of our community including those who have traditionally been left out. This time next year we hope to have even more shows, more classes and new people gracing our stage and nourishing their creativity

Improv theaters depend on your support. Unlike traditional theaters that have legacy grants and billionaire donors, improv is community-powered. Will you help support a thriving improv community in San Diego?

Our Goals for 2023:

Expand youth classes: We currently offer 2 youth classes and hope to increase the number of kids who get to experience the joy of improv.

Develop new shows: Improv is never the same show twice, but we also seek to offer new types of improv shows instead of the same formats every week. From improvised soap operas to musicals to improv vs. standup, we will continue to offer innovative shows to San Diego.

Increase collaboration with other theaters: We explored the intersection of dance and improv with San Diego Dance Theatre this year and are eager to develop new collaborations in 2023.

Offer financial assistance: In 2022, we launched $5 tickets for every show so improv remains accessible. In 2023, we plan to offer financial assistance for classes so improv is accessible to more people.

Love from the Community:

A student:

“Great place to take improv classes and to watch shows! The teachers are super knowledgeable and resourceful, the staff is very friendly and the theater is cozy but comfortable at the same time.”

A parent of a student:

“This improv class has been an absolute godsend to Allie’s social development. She has grown more confident in how she presents herself and feels that she has made connections with friends. You have provided a safe place for her to be herself.”

A patron:

“We had a wonderful time!!! We laughed so hard we practically couldn’t breathe…our jaws hurt from laughter. We will definitely go back on Friday night and Saturday night. They were witty and just hilarious!”

A performer:

“As a performer, teacher, and student at Mockingbird, I was immersed in their teaching philosophy and mission. I received extremely intentional feedback from coaches who truly care about the growth and well-being of performers, as well as the joy and satisfaction of the patrons.”

Mockingbird Improv is a California 501(c)3 nonprofit and all donations are tax exempt.

Mockingbird Improv - Support the Mission in 2023

Support a Growing Improv Theater in San Diego

Team Members