ColdTowne Theater is one of the best places in this town to see local comedy. The venue is BYOB, everyone is wonderfully friendly, and the comedy is top notch. Want to try an open mic? Sign up! They're on Mondays! Want to take classes? They have improv and sketch classes! There's also free parking? That's kind of nuts, right? They also offer great corporate training. I love this little theater and everyone involved here. 10/10 would recommend. read more

Wow! Such a cool little theater! I stumbled across the Coldtowne Theater's website and became intrigued. I saw that they were offering classes for improv and writing so on a whim I decided to sign-up for Improv 1. After nervously attending my first class and first attempt at anything theatrically comedic I must say that I am a new man. Tami is our instructor and she did a great job of explaining the theory and basic techniques associated with improv comedy as well as giving us hands on experience to help build our confidence. I don't think that I will ever be able to perform improv professionally but I do walk around with a new confidence, a new insight into everyday life, and I feel like I have made some new friends in the process. I look forward to next week's class. I also attended one of ColdTowne's improv shows here last Saturday and I had a blast. A friend and I split a 6-pack of Anchor Bock that we brought from HEB down the street and watched the show for $5 each (NOTE: if you take classes at ColdTowne you can get into the shows for free, but I felt like I should support the group so I paid at the door anyways). The show started with an improvised musical from the group Girls Girls Girls. These ladies were talented, fun, and humorous; you could tell they really had fun with the show. ColdTowne came on next and did a great show about the hell of visiting in-laws mingled with assault and "where did they touch you" dolls.... needless to say, it was fun. Each group did sets that lasted about 45 minute so it didn't take the whole evening but was still fun enough to go on a date or a quick evening out with friends. Go to their website (www.coldtownetheater.com) and sign-up for a class or check out the calendar to see what shows might be going on tonight! read more

I love the intimate feel of both the bar & the theatre itself: the bar are has some cozy couches to chill before heading into the 3-row theatre. Yes, it could be considered a little dive-y, but I think it adds to the charm! Came on a Tuesday for a variety show that had both standup and improv acts which were pretty funny. A few of the jokes fell flat, but they definitely got some good laughs out of us. Don't forget it's BYOB!! read more

I've only been to the stand-up nights on Fridays, so I'm not familiar with their improv acts, but I can say that it's a cool little place to spend an entertaining evening. "Little" is the key word -- the place is tiny. I don't think it can seat more than 50 people, and it looks like word is spreading, so get there early if you want to get a good seat (or a seat at all -- I had to stand last time). But because it's so small, the shows feel much more intimate, and that can be a plus; the audience seems much friendlier and more prone to laugh -- maybe because the comedians will see 'em if they don't! I believe prices vary depending on the show, but it's usually about 5 bucks, and BYOB, as well, which can be a nice change -- instead of 2 bucks for every beer, you can just spring for a 12-pack and be jolly all night. I think it'd be a good place to impress a date -- it's definitely got that little-known, underground vibe, like some basement club in New York, and your date will think you're all cool for knowing about it. Just don't admit that you read about it here. ;) read more

ColdTowne Theater was fun! Love the BYOB, cute little trailer outside for yummies and the staff was really friendly. We went to a really random improv show and had a really good time. The theater is intimate, and you almost feel like part of the show. Everyone there, cast and crew included, was having a good time. I will definitely return with friends! My only word of caution is that even though they have a Yelp deal, there was no way to redeem it by buying a ticket online. Luckily, it was easy to get tickets at the door and use the deal that way. read more

I've been going to ColdTowne shows since I moved to Austin, and I'm currently taking classes there. This is professional level comedy. Such amazing, talented performers! read more

ColdTowne Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

I've been going to comedy in Austin for years at all the local venues and I enjoy the shows everywhere, but Coldtowne Theater is my favorite. Other theaters you might want to be very selective what night of the week you go and which act you see, but at Coldtowne the acts are just so consistently funny. A reason for this is their improv classes are consistent as well, training their students to perform as top of the line talent and developing their comedy skills to be utterly hilarious. They seem to be having such fun onstage and yet they also put so much work into being entertaining. All theaters in town have a core group of talent who are very funny, but at Coldtowne they are constantly creating fresh comedians who perform at a level you wouldn't expect of someone who has only been doing improv for a year or two. They are just so supportive of each other. Every so often you will see a troupe do a run of final shows, because the people on it are moving to New York or LA to try to make it in comedy. So there is a chance that the people you'll see currently at Coldtowne could be in movies or TV in a few years. So if you're remotely interested in improv classes, this is the place to start. If you just want to watch shows, this is the place where you are most able to go any night of the week and be entertained. A current favorite is the all female troupe Loverboy that plays on Wednesday nights, or the team Movie Riot on Fridays, or the Frank Mills on Saturdays, but these are just acts to start with if you don't know which to choose and want to see people who have been performing for years. Those weekend shows often sell out so buying online is worth considering if you don't mind the service charge, or else get there 45 minutes early (& beat all the people who thought they could get there 30 mins early). I go there mainly to see comedians who are new and fresh to the comedy scene, it's exciting to see if they are going to bomb or bring the house down, and constantly it's the latter and I'm cracking up at how funny some new person is that I haven't seen before. Added good qualities are that they are BYOB, street parking isn't hard to find in the event that their parking lot is full, and for many shows the tickets are only $5. Once a month they have Karaoke after the final midnight show plays, and anyone can just sign up on a list and get up and sing. For parents there is a kids' show every Saturday morning where they perform an improv show with a talking poodle named Steve (there is actually an improv performer on the mic doing his voice). They get the kids up on stage if they want to be part of the show, and pepper the show with jokes for the parents as well. read more

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We've been a couple times - only for Improv. I give anyone who does improv enormous credit...its tough enough to get up and talk in front of a group of people let alone make up funny, creative sketches on the fly. That being said, I'm here to be entertained and some of the troupes kind of fail at the funny part. Its not just me...they can go for ten minutes without a chuckle from the audience. There's often one member who is funny, but he (its always been men that we've seen) just can't play off the others enough to keep it going. Occasionally, we've found a troupe that clearly has something the rest don't and are sidesplitting. (the knuckeball we saw recently- these guys are hilarious and the other troupe we liked I can't remember). Also, make sure to get there early. Its a small theater and it gets packed fast. read more

We went on a Thursday night and didn't have a problem with parking or seating. I love the seats and couches, so comfy. I thought the show was funny and my boyfriend really enjoyed it as well. And everyone was so friendly! The comedians even shared their pie and beverages with us strangers :) I will definitely be visiting again! read more

ColdTowne Theater - Poop flinging. - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

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I first heard about Coldtowne through Austin360 on a Sunday night while looking through the free events. The improv show was good (I've been again several times, all of which have been awesome - the group Murphy especially) The "theatre' is a small little basement-like room. It's awesome - there are comfy couches and you can bring in your own drinks. I have only had the chance to catch out their free shows, but I definitely plan on going to one of their paid shows! After my friends ditched me, I decided to take their free improv class this past Monday - I loved it!! The two instructors were amazing (can't remember their names..grrr...one was from Murphy) It was totally laid-back and a ton of fun. I was really nervous going in, especially on my own, but so glad I did. There is absolutely no pressure to be funny or witty. I definitely plan on signing up to their beginner class in August! Can't wait! read more

This is a great theater, you can't go wrong attending any of the shows Thursday through Monday nights, and a bunch of them are free. When it's not free it's pretty cheap ($5-10 depending on the show) and it's always BYOB, so that helps. If you have a long time love of improv, sketch, or stand up, or you've never seen any before, you'll be satisfied with your ColdTowne experience I guarantee it! The classes are also of a super quality and I would highly recommend taking them as I have enjoyed them thoroughly. Full schedule of shows and classes on www.coldtownetheater.com read more

An intimate comedy spot that BYOB, the acts can be a mixed bag (as with any comedy show) but overall I would say the quality of comedy is pretty good. I think the theatre only holds about 40 people so I would recommend getting there early if you want seats together. Overall a pretty entertaining way to spend an hour. read more

Uhhhh... Wow. I guess when I see 4.5 stars overall rating for a comedy troop on yelp, I expect that means that the troop is actually funny! I agree that the people that work there were cool, that BYOB is awesome, the price is good, but I still expected a few more laughs. The theatre is very intimate, almost to the point of being uncomfortable when none of the 10 people were laughing during our Friday night theatre experience. I felt myself giving sympathy chuckles at times because the punch line pause was getting awkward. Maybe we were there on an off night. We will give them another go once they move to their new location. read more

Intimate improv at its best! When you walk in you'll feel like you just got invited to the insider's party. A casual atmosphere where friends hang out before the show and enjoy wine, beer, topo chico or other refreshments. Plus, you can BYOB if you so choose. Be sure to book online and you'll get free popcorn! - Not to mention you'll make sure to get a ticket (sometimes they sell out if you wait til the door) The theater itself is very intimate (about 20 seats) and you almost feel like you're on the stage with the actors. Depending on what troupes show up that night, the show can make you cry laughing so hard or just mere entertainment. - Either way, you'll leave feeling a surge of energy from the small crowd and closeness to the actors. No doubt, this is one of the best date/hangout spots I've found in Austin and all for a minimal cost. read more

If I could afford it, I would go to every single ColdTowne show ever. The improv was fresh, and I giggled my eyes out the entire time. The theatre is VERY tiny, and while I thought that would be awkward, I didn't mind it all. Get there early so you can snag a couch! The one on the back row in the corner is especially comfy. B.Y.O.B!!! I was super jealous of the group that brought a case of Bud with them. I thought for a second this meant that the comedy would be low grade since they would be entertaining a bunch of PLASTERED people, but naw, they're actually really hilarious. Can't wait to go again, and I can't believe I'm admitting this, but I'm very strongly considering their improv classes! read more

Nice fun little place! Saturday night standup is great, relaxed & low key. Funny! BYOB is a huge plus :-) read more

This place is easy to find, there's plenty of parking. I went with a friend to support a sorority sister in her improv comedy career. it was quite fun to watch for an hour. I am impressed at how these folks can get up there and just work it. you get a sense of collaboration and you can tell when there's no connection between the members. i had a good hour of laugh. i wish i checked in before to get the two for one ticket price! But it was only $7 and they provided free punch ;) read more

Love this place. I've sat in the audience and have done improv on the stage and it doesn't get much better than this. :) The place is small, about 20-30 seats at the most in the theater but, it fills up nicely and it gives it more of a homey feel. They also offer improv classes. I've never taken one personally (I'm an Institution Theater girl :) ) but, I've heard A LOT of good things about them from friends. I'd highly suggest this place to anyone, whether you want to get your improv on/ learn to improv or want a good laugh one night. read more

Just got home from my first visit and I'm kicking myself for not having gone sooner! I bought my ticket online which probably wasn't necessary for a Tuesday, I just wanted to be sure to get in. I'd say since the seats aren't assigned you should arrive early to sit together with friends or a date. Full disclosure, this was my first time at a comedy club. I had seen improve on TV, but really didn't know what expect. It took me a few mins to catch on and feel comfortable, but in almost no time I was cracking up along with everyone else. The theater, lobby and restrooms where all neat and clean. Snacks and non alcoholic drinks available before the show, very reasonably priced. BYO alcohol is the policy, though I didn't see anyone visibly drunk or abusing the privilege. It was a lovely night, I can't wait to come back for a longer show or perhaps some stand-up. read more

A friend of mine manages some shows here, so I tagged along when I was in town visiting. I had heard of this place back when I lived in Austin, but for some reason it never dawned on me that I should actually check it out. Man I wish I did. Cheap, friendly and chill atmosphere, cool crowd, funny people, BYOB, next to I Heart Video...seriously, what else could you ask for? In the age of comedy clubs charging ridiculous fees + requiring the purchase of crappy overpriced drinks, this place is refreshing. It's true to Austin, while not being pretentious about it. Don't know what to do on Friday night? Go see a show here. The acts I saw were mainly local, many perhaps just getting started, but that was all part of the entertainment. No it won't be a Comedy Central special, but it's a whole lot of fun. read more

This is a super cute comedy theater. I don't often go to comedy shows but I went to improv night last night and it was pretty fun! The space is quite tiny and intimate so you are really there with the actors. It was kind of nice feeling like part of this community for an hour or so. It's like going to an intimate concert and then seeing the same band play at Stubbs. You never know who you might 'discover' and I love supporting a local business. BYOB and only $5. read more

First off, BYOB! Wish we had known. Secondly, very appealing. Sometimes very funny, sometimes kind of rough, but this is where it starts, folks. Tiny venue, very friendly, give it a try. read more

Here's a tip- don't sit on the right side because they have this HUGE portable air conditioning unit that is so loud you literally cannot hear what anyone is saying (even when you're sitting in the front row). I think the show was funny judging from the crowd's laughter and reaction, but I honestly personally don't know because I couldn't hear anything. Bummer, but next time I know to sit somewhere else. It's a tiny tiny place (maximum seating maybe 40-50 people), and super divey. Park on the street in the neighborhood. read more

It was Friday (4/10/09), it had been a long week, and we needed some comic relief. We decided to stay in our hood and ventured over to Salvage Vanguard Theatre for their Improv. Not funny. Not much of a crown either. So off we went to our old hood, and landed at ColdTowne Theatre. We had rented movies at I Heart Video for years and had seen the crowds forming at ColdTowne, and even talked about going in one day. That day was Friday. We laughed our asses off. It was the 10 o'clock performance. We were early so we went to the stop and rob across the street and picked up a six of Dos Equis and went back to the parking lot and hung out with the rest of the audience-in-wait. Once the earlier show ended, we were able to go inside to the cocktail-less lounge. There is a bar, just no liquor. Funny or not... the cost of admission is pick your price. I suggested that we would pay at the end of the show, depending on how funny it was. The door man did not find this funny, at all. Too bad, we had a great time, and we would have paid more at the end than what we paid when we entered. The Theatre is intimate, but comfortable. I am finicky about seats being to hard. Nice cushy seats, is what we sat in here. Nice. It sure helps me to enjoy a show when I am not fidgety in my chair. ColdTowne Theatre is a must go to, for any of you looking for a good time at a decent price ($10-20 per person). Great place to bring a date. I would give it 5 stars if they had a bar. read more

Full disclosure: I graduated from the ColdTowne Conservatory in 2009 so I'm remarking on my experience learning improv there. I guess five stars speaks for itself. Not to overstate the experience, but learning improv totally changed my life. I doubled my community of friends, sharpened my listening/responding skills, re-energized my creative energy (have been a musician for years) and learned (gradually) to be comfortable performing in-the-moment, from the top of my intelligence, without pre-planning in front of a full house of people. Recommended. The only other comment I have is for the nozzle that trashed the theater in the review below, saying that he was drunk and didn't have fun. ColdTowne is a "theater" so while drinking can be part of the fun, listening and paying attention is also part of the experience. It sounds like that hoser would've been better off at a sports bar or Gallagher show. If you're already drunk, please don't come to ColdTowne Theater. Thanks! read more

It's been a hot minute since I first reviewed this joint, and I believe it deserves an update. Seeing as how my first review kind of accurately reflects my virginal opinion, there must be some clarifications made. A few things have changed. The creepy, drippy word "LIVE" is gone from the front exterior. It has been replaced with new paint and a cool new mural on the side of the building! Coldtowne is still not a place to watch porn (see previous review). You can drive on down to Dreamer's for that. They have expanded the space somewhat inside. Still BYOB, forever and always I hope. Purchasing tickets through their website is a nice and easy, since they have gotten a bit more popular over the years. I got waitlisted on a recent Friday evening since I didn't purchase tickets in advance! Sad face! No worries, they let me in. Parking is now a constant issue, so park in the neighborhood if you can. I've introduced a lot of my friends to this little theater and they always love it. No one has ever been disappointed in my recommendation. Sometimes it gets me all nostalgic...like "Back in my day, Sundays and Wednesdays (maybe even Mondays) were FREE and/or pay what you want!" OR "Back in my day there weren't any hip restaurants on Airport to eat dinner at before a show. Now we've got hip places like Kome, Bun Belly and Bullfight within walking distance." They have a lot of mainstay shows. I've seen some of the same troupes many times because they have had a weekly timeslot for years. And it never gets old. I may be the one and only biggest improv fan who has never been close to attempting to take classes. And while I totally and completely admire the work of improvisers, public speaking is a feat I have yet to tackle! Public anything, really. That being said, I have been to all of the improv theaters in town. I had a first date at Hideout once. But that's another story. Coldtowne is BY FAR my favorite. There is a big difference from theater to theater. Some are more theatrical, relying more on acting skills and less comedic improvising, in my humble non-graduate opinion. I can only assume that Coldtowne probably has the best improv teachers, since they always have the best shows. Sure, it's divey, and seating is limited. Just sit in the front row. You'll thank me later. read more

You should absolutely see comedy at ColdTowne. Whether it's standup, improv, sketch, you can absolutely find a show that fits your interests and will make you laugh. What the heck, take a chance on something that might even surprise you. Speaking of taking chances, what I am really here to do is to tell you all that you should learn comedy at ColdTowne. They have an amazing improv program that is literally tons of fun, and will grow you as a person or performer, regardless of what your goals are. You will learn to listen, support, and create amazing and hilarious things together. You will begin to trust others, and even start trusting yourself. The faculty are tip top notch, and the students and performing community will accept you with open arms. What are you waiting for? read more

If you have even the slightest, tiniest urge or desire to want to give improv a try, you should just jump in with both feet and take classes at ColdTowne; you've got nothing to lose and everything to gain. The faculty at ColdTowne do a beyond amazing job of making class the highlight of your week and you end up having so much fun that sometimes you forget that you're actually learning something and start to question why learning everything else is like lukewarm oatmeal in comparison. Each class makes you want to dive deeper and learn and experience more, and Coldtowne is so amazing because they do 7 nights of shows a week, so if you can't control your urges and want to see more, you can scratch that itch. There are also several opportunities to perform (yes on stage) even at the earlier levels, and there's nothing like the feeling of getting up on stage for the first time. You can tailor your experience to be as immersed as you'd like, but the most important part is you made the choice to take the plunge, giving yourself the opportunity for this to be something that you experience. In taking classes at ColdTowne, I learned a whole lot introspectively about myself, as well as being comfortable in my own skin. There is an overwhelming sense of community at ColdTowne that makes you feel like you're a part of something immensely great and positive. Everyone I have met and encountered here has further boosted my confidence in just being myself; there hasn't been a single time where I felt any twinge of judgement or negativity from anyone, it's just constant reassurance and support all around. I also came to find out that no matter what was going on in my life, I could show up for class and leave in the most energized, amazing mood ever. I once literally had a bad day where I wished that I had class to look forward to that same evening because I knew it would make me feel better (luckily for me though, I had class the day after and it still did the trick). Even in the short amount of time that I have been at ColdTowne, I have made great connections, bonds, and friendships with more people than I can easily count, coming from all different walks of life that I could probably say I might have never had the pleasure of knowing if it wasn't for ColdTowne bringing everyone together with a shared passion for comedy. A result that I didn't see coming was with the friendships and relationships that I had outside of ColdTowne before I started taking classes. Everyone seemed to be super impressed at my confidence in my decision just to start taking classes, the fact that this was something that I was actually doing, and how they "wished that this was something they could do," which, by the way, they totally could if they wanted to, anyone could/should if they so desire. We are all capable of achieving anything if we put effort into it and try, which I think is one of the greatest things that I have walked away with from taking classes at ColdTowne. Taking classes at ColdTowne has been, hands down, one of the best decisions I have made in my life in a very long time. When I was younger I had always pinned high goals for what I'd achieve by a certain age and would map out just where my life would be. Anyone who has lived life at all knows that life just never goes according to plan. All these deadlines for achievements passed as time progressed, not really due to a lack of interest, but a lack of hard driving motivation. Sitting down looking at all the things that I didn't do wouldn't change my motivation any, but it did leave me questioning "What HAVE I done?". I needed to find something that would challenge me, and motivate me, and push me to keep at it that would in the end leave me feeling the satisfaction of accomplishment in the pits of "failure". I had always been interested in improv, but it it certainly wasn't a priority on my "to-do list of life" in the past. It had gotten to the point though where I knew I wouldn't be able to keep spending my days wondering "What if?". The opportunity was certainly there, and I made the bold decision to take it, bring idea into action, stop thinking it and just do it. In that decision I have no regrets whatsoever, well except maybe not deciding to do it sooner. read more

This theater is more than just another improv theater. It's a pillar to the theater community. Great talent and refreshing shows. For what you pay and for the short time commitment, it's the best theater in town! Stool Pigeon is my personal favorite group on Sunday nights. read more

Went to Monday Night Mash at ColdTowne Theater. Didn't look like much rolling up to the place but turned out to be much more than I expected! Before the show started at 8:30 I was able to run over to the neighboring gas station for a bottle of wine and then explore the very cool and expansive I Luv Video next door. With three improv acts and the place being BYOB, I was very happy to give $5 for my 'pay what you want' ticket and a little over an hour of great entertainment. The theater is teeny-weeny, but just enough to create an intimate and personal show. Looking forward to returning for more laughs and inexpensive entertainment! read more

We came here for a sketch comedy show on a Saturday night. I'm not quite sure why this place keeps getting five stars. If you like people screaming and generally acting obnoxious, then you'll think this place is hilarious. Yikes. read more

such an awesome atmosphere with awesome improve. And they take beer of donations of 2$ only....WHAT??? pretty small once you get in but its cozy and the people are very talented. I cannot wait to go back. Love the place and Im glad I stumbled, literally, across it. read more

Initmate, cool, fun place for the acting nerd in us all. Some really funny people and great Austin vibe!

Not my idea of improv. the first act I saw appeared to be going over their skit in the parking lot before the show. rehearse for improv? Seriously? Now this may have been a misunderstanding on my part, but I sure noticed it in the parking lot and was shocked to see the two guys come out on stage after just seeing them outside. Then between the two acts they only used the audience input at the very beginning for a vey very short period and it was not acted on very well. Then it went on to what I would assume was their rehearsed skit. Very amature in my opinion and was very disappointing. Would not suggest going here. The plus was that it was byob. I would have left one star except the staff was friendly and at least one of the staff that was also in the second skit was friendly in encouraging others to join in. I would suggest to ColdTowne to take audience input several times during the show. Maybe have the audience shout out words during the show for them to use. If you're really doing improv, you won't have a problem doing this and still getting plenty of laughs. If you are using planned out skits then this could be a problem....Also, too many people seem to think that profanity is funny. And load up their show with extra profanity because for some odd reason people laugh when you use it. Almost like a child getting all excited after hearing a 4 letter word for their first time. You're funny when you can get laughs in a show without using profanity. Take this review for what it is worth. It is just my opinion. I understand some people may give this place 5 stars and I'm ok with that, but in my opinion it was a one star for the show, but an extra star earned because my observation of the staff was that they were polite and friendly and seemed to want people to enjoy themselves. Looking at Yelp, I have to go with Two stars because it says "Meh, I've experienced better", and this is what I feel. I would give the employees 5 stars, and normally average it to 3 stars, but I don't feel that my overall experience was "A-Ok." read more

Great theater with awesome performances! The classes are a blast! I highly recommend trying them out. The best part is the friendly, tight-knit community! read more

Great place to see comedy every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. ColdTowne and the Frank Mills are a must-see for the first Saturday of every month. read more

Came here for a really fun "Salute Your Shorts Murder Mystery Improv" - yes, the Nickelodeon show. There was blood everywhere and everyone sang along with the theme song. Great entertainment for a good price - plus it's BYOB. read more

I just want to say that I am touched that the people at CT reached out to me and apologized for the mean girl at the door and about my poor experiences here generally. It was pointed out that the theater cannot really control what the talent says in the midst of their acts (or smells like for that matter) and of course, that is true. On my end, it probably would have been a more valuable review if I had addressed the situation with the rude chick at the door immediately. It's been a few years now and I'm sure she has moved on employment wise. Either way, I thought about taking down the original review, but I think it's good to leave it mostly intact and let others decide. Almost all of the reviews on here are overwhelmingly positive, which should say something. read more

Hit or miss at times (depending on which troupe is performing), but when they're on, they're on.

This place is amazing!!! The improv shows and late night stand up are fantastically funny. Also, did I mention it's BYOB! I've been a few times with my boyfriend and other friends and we've gone in with our bottle of wine. We usually just ask for a few plastic cups from the staff at the front counter and they are more than happy to oblige. They are friendly and comedians are great. I can't wait to go back! read more