I hate to ruin the surprise but this is the funniest Seattle experience you'll find. And I mean it! When people tell me, "That movie is so funny!" or "You HAVE to check out this comedian, I almost peed my pants!" I almost always find that while humorous, nothing really makes me laugh out loud. Except for the improv shows at Unexpected Productions. I kid you not, I was laughing so hard I began to worry that people around me couldn't hear the show. I love to laugh and while sometimes people find things funnier than I do, when something really makes me laugh I just can't stop laughing. This theater has room for about 200 guests and they have different shows all the time. Some are raunchy and edgy, most are good for a young(ish) crowd, and best of all - before the show begins there's a receiving area where you can grab soda, popcorn, candy, or booze! I love the creativity and the element of surprise. The shows are never the same, the audience is never the same, and that combination makes for a unique visit every time. Great for a company party or just a date night, I look forward to visiting UP more often. You also can't beat the location. Just don't touch the exterior walls! read more

This was my first live Improv and it was laugh so hard pee your pants funny! I've gone to plenty of stand-ups and have seen improv on TV, but there's nothing like being there live in the flesh and having the audience participate in the scenes. What a great space too. It doesn't appear so at first glance but the room can hold a decent number of seats. It is still intimate enough where you could still see the faces of the individuals on stage. Loved the themed music from the piano man. Well... technically keyboard, but let's not get overly anal & technical about it. Added bonus: it's in a prime location in Post Alley! The Pike Place Market has valet parking for only $10-$15 depending on the business you're going to. My friends and I had dinner prior to the show and validated our parking at the restaurant. I think the price is super reasonable considering the location. Not to mention the price you pay for convenience -- assuming you drive. Important to note that this valet lot closes at 11 PM so something to keep in mind. There's a concession stand that sells popcorn and soda pop inside the venue. Additionally, there is a bar with a variety of adult beverages that are available for sale & consumption. Tip: If you are chewing gum, leave it outside on the wall before you enter the venue... On the gum wall of course! This would be a great date night... ice breaker maybe or just a good time with a friend. I had a lot of fun with my friends. Can't wait to do it again! read more

My friend and I came here for the Yelp Event and had a great time. For the complimentary drink we had the St. Germaine and champagne cocktail. It was refreshing and tasty! The comedy was very funny. I thought every actor was funny and unique and their personalities really seemed to show through. There were plenty of laughs! After the show the actors all mingled by the exit to talk to people as they left. We also talked to Kent (not sure if he is an owner or an employee) and he was very friendly and happy to talk to us about the show and make sure we had a good time. I had a drink after the show, too. $5 for a Tequila Sunrise and it was strong! We had a great time at the event. The popcorn was popped with real butter and was complimentary. Thanks to Katy and the whole Unexpected Productions staff! I had been here before and thought the improv was just okay that time. I know it varies by night because the shows are always different. This time the show was excellent! I really admire improv actors for their ability to think on their feet and take anything that's thrown at them! read more

Wandering around Seattle, looking for something to do on a Wednesday night, we found Unexpected Productions tucked away in the gum wall. They have comedians or improv almost every night, so we caught duo improv night for only $5 a person. The atmosphere was calm and welcoming and each of the 9 duo acts lasted less than ten minutes, leaving us laughing tears as we walked out an hour later. There were snacks and drinks, alcoholic and not, and free popcorn when you check in on Yelp. (Hint hint.) Everyone was friendly and fun and contributed to the good atmosphere. The theater area itself was comfortable, clean, and provided a great view of the stage from any seat. All in all, a fantastic experience and the perfect thing to do if you're looking for cheap, fun entertainment any night of the week. read more

Theatresports - Unexpected Productions' flagship attraction which pits two teams of improvisers against each other for audience adoration - once turned a perfectly adult date starting with dinner at Kisaku into a high-school date with its mediocrity. I don't understand what happens when one enters the walls of the Market Theatre because I've seen some of the same improvisers be hilarious elsewhere and the concept of dueling is tailored for comedy, but I've been to multiple performances over the span of a year and each time it just hasn't been funny. Perhaps they have "on" nights, but I prefer a troupe where one remarks on the "off" nights, not the converse. Whose line is it? Mine, either to the exit or to the Historic University Theatre to see one of Jet City Improv's offerings instead. That said, Unexpected Productions' improvisation classes produced a group that is more often than not a joy to watch (although given the rest of this review, I will not name them for their own protection.) read more

Wow! I'm a fan of this little theater, an Improv Theater in Seattle. Unexpected Productions will conduct various types of shows throughout the calendar season and I've been here on many occasions enjoying the various types of shows. The show format changes depending on what's occurring, ranging from short acts, such as at Happy Hour, or longer story formats, such as the Halloween or Christmas Special. In any regard, which ever show I attend, I always had a great time, and I find this to be perfect to spending an evening in Downtown Seattle. For the performers to take random suggestions from the audience and make everyone have a good time and laugh, that's a great skill to have and truly something to respect. The venue itself is located near Gum Wall, so you'll have to walk down a set of stairs or down a ramp to find it from Pike Place Market. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. The venue itself has seating for around 210 people, which can be quite full. It's best to get there early to grab a seat for the full length shows. There is a small bar dispensing drinks, and popcorn. Can't wait till the next time I'm here watching a show, and laughing my pants off. :-) read more

Unexpected Productions - Improv Act in progress, based upon a suggestion from an audience member. - Performing Arts Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I saw the 6:30 Friday evening show and it was hilarious! The actors were on-point the whole show and the timing was perfect from jokes to lighting to the accompanying music coming from the dude down front with the keyboard. Just like an old-time theater with the organ guy in front...very cool! They do 30 shows per week and the MC may or may not have flatulence issues when she is nervous. With that many shows and a crew of professional improv actors---I will be back to see more! (shows, not farts) read more

What an absolute blast! If you're looking for something fun and different, Theatre Sports is a fantastic way to spend your Saturday night. I went last night with my husband and brothers for the first time and we are already talking about going again soon. I have always regarded Seattle as a very artsy city and last night's improv show reinforced this completely. The actors/comedians are extremely talented and you will not be disappointed, as we laughed throughout the entire show. The interaction with the audience (which is all voluntary) also makes the show a great deal of fun as well! The venue is located in the heart of Post Alley, underneath Pike Place Market just south of the bubble gum wall. The theatre itself is charming, vintage and historic. The prices for refreshments are great being $2 for candy, drinks and popcorn so no inflated prices like one might expect. If you haven't been to a theatre sports improv show, you've got to check this out! It is definitely worth the fun and I truly enjoyed it! Hands down, one of Seattle's best kept secrets and makes for a very fun night out. read more

Ok seriously every Seattleite needs to come here. This is a GEM!!! I am not normally a comedy show person- in fact I don't think I've attended a show before. However I absolutely loved this place and the folks....it was seriously laugh out loud hilarious. my husband and I attended the Truth or Dare show and I really had no expectations. We were both laughing out loud right at the get go and throughout the show. The cast members were awesome and so creative - they were just fun hilarious people that you just wanted to be friends with! The space is great- pretty intimate and no bad seats in the house. There are snacks and drinks available for purchase, and even had a little pop up shop of locally made chocolate!! Also small note but I really appreciated that the content wasn't unnecessarily raunchy or explicit as some comedy shows I've heard can be....they are hilarious without needing to go there! !! Awesome experience and you can guarantee we will be back again..and likely multiple times :):) read more

Hilarious! Took my parents here on their second night in Seattle and we were all brought to tears from laughter. We stopped in mid-day to check it out and by tickets in advance and met Amber who works the box office. She was so sweet and a joy to converse with which made us even more eager to see the show. The performers really gave their all. As individuals they each brought their own style to the stage, and together put on a delightful spectacle. Will definitely have to go back! read more

Tucked into the Gum Wall, I would call this one of Seattle's hidden gems, as I never knew it existed prior to coming here for a Yelp event some time ago. I've been back several times since and consider it to be an excellent way to spend an evening around Pike Place Market and at a very reasonable price too. I preferred the quick-hits improv of the comedy happy hour to the full-length production of the improvised Christmas Carol, but both left me in awe of the performers' talents and chuckling merrily away. The space is generous enough to fit a good crowd, but intimate enough that you can see and hear most of what is going on. The lobby space is tight when busy, but it's not a long wait to enter the theater and if you time it right, you can grab a drink at the bar. There's also popcorn. The performers rotate in and out, although I suspect most of them have set nights that they perform, but they're all so good that it's hard to pick a favorite. They do a great job responding to the crowd, whether the theater is full or not. From the bartender to the ticket-seller, all of the staff I've interacted with have also been fun and friendly. I would definitely recommend checking it out. read more

Step away from the norm and go see this amazing improv troupe. The improvised Christmas Carol was hilarious, and family friendly. We laughed so hard! I've seen dozens of shows here and they always deliver the goods. read more

I came here for the YELP event so all I have seen is the abbreviated version of the show. However the Show was way funnier than I expected!! I always take local comedy with a grain of sand because usually it takes a lot for me to literally LOL. But it was very funny! The troupe had 5 or 6 guys and 1 really cute very funny girl named Sarah. I laughed a lot!! And I wish I could of stayed for the second show. However I will come again with a date unless Sarah wants to be the date. But, Seriously the venue has a great location and really nice people working there. I will make a point to come here again and maybe even do the Improv classes. read more

Worst. Improv. I've. Ever. Seen. They have many different shows you can come to see. I saw an "Unexpected Theater Comedy Improv", not Theatersports, etc. And I couldn't even walk out...there were too many people who worked there to have to pass by and give "the look" to. Honestly, I had such a bad experience. Even though so many people gave it 4 and 5 stars for the other productions that they do, I am scarred for life. read more

The shows are fine for a low budget evening. The classes they offer for those interested in getting into the business is another story. Regardless of the skill level you posses, you are compelled to take their 100 level class. That class is designed for those students who have stage fright/social anxiety. The focus is more therapy than education. If you are beyond stage fright, you will find this class very uncomfortable and perhaps a little odd. If you have basic acting skills and are not shy, I would strongly suggest you find a company that does not compel you to pay $250 for 8 weeks of therapy before being allowed to move on. There are numerous IMPROV studious to choose from that do not enforce a pre-class before the actual class. If you suffer from extreme shyness, this course may suit you. If you do not, find a different venue for acting classes. read more

TheaterSports, all the way! They are goofy, silly, funny, unabashed, clever, witty people. I didn't know what to expect before going but found myself laughing at practically everything they did or said. This is improv comedy at its finest. The show consists of a string of "games" where they'll get a few ideas from the audience and run with it within the premise of one of their games. They'll share the "rules" before they start but even if you don't understand, you'll get it once they get going. I liked how they only took ideas from those that raised their hands. You can't volunteer your friends. And you won't get unwanted attention. I watched the hour Theatersports and Skid Road that followed. Skid Road had way too much profanity for my liking. And seemed a little dragged out, story-wise.. To their credit, they are going off the fly, so I give them props for that. TheaterSports all the way! read more

I've seen this fantastic troupe many times but the most recent was the best. An (Improvised) Christmas Carol is a show you DO NOT want to miss. Hilarious while still maintaining the essence of the original story. My friend and I laughed harder than we have in a long time. The piano player's little surprises are a big part of the fun too. Go. You will be delighted you did. read more

Why wouldn't you come here? Great fun, love Seattle. Went for the Scrooge Christmas carol event, well done, clean language, good actors, a fun inexpensive way to spend 90 min; located right at gum wall alley. read more

Unexpected Productions - Adding my gum to the box office. - Performing Arts Near Me - Seattle, Washington

My husband and I popped in hoping for a night of laughs and boy did we laugh! The improv was great - it was a doubles open-mic style which proved to be quite entertaining. The venue was full of character and they provided little tidbits of its history while we waited for the show to begin. The staff was excellent and the performers were hilarious - they held nothing back. Loved it! I would recommend a show here anytime and for the price, you really can't beat it! I believe we paid $12 for both tickets. Money well spent! read more

What a great evening with this fantastic group! My lady and I were invited in to see the show. We had no idea what to expect (no pun on name intended). But we were absolutely thrilled, impressed, entertained, and will be back. Whether it's a date night, a fun night, a sober night, a drunk night, or just need something to do... this unique experience is worth every penny. I'll be heading here for my birthday's or anytime I have friends in town. We are so lucky in Seattle to have this wonderful little place amongst our great theater scene. Forget reading anymore reviews and just buy a ticket. Go now! read more

Best improv in the city with a very experienced and talented bunch of players. Great event to take friends from out of town given the proximity to Pike Place Market and it's pretty cheap too. You can even get adult beverages! Definitely go more than once. It's improv so each night will be different, some nights there's a little more chemistry than others but that's the nature of improv. I like the later shows which tend to get a little saltier (and funnier) read more

Everything is improv - even the showtime. Buy a ticket for an 8:30-10:00 show which actually ends at 9:30...... makes sense...... not really. I watched the "WIUP Mystery Hour: An Improvised Radio Show". There were a couple parts which were funny, but you never know what you'll get with improvisation shows - quite a few misses on this night. I would probably give the show 3 stars but, as mentioned, the show being cut by 1/3 relative to the stated runtime added to the disappointment. I'll still give them another shot including trying their more popular "Seattle Theatresports". read more

Funny stuff. My father, sister and I came here for their improv Happy Hour. The entire show was comprised of short-forms, and I could tell that the players were experienced, and were having a lot of fun onstage. The live musician provided the perfect backing tracks to the scenes, and all of the improvisers were great at song games. I especially enjoyed their Shakespearean game. The free popcorn check-in bonus was great, too. The only downside is that the crowd was small (10-15 people max?), so energy was a little lacking. The improvisers did the best they could, though. Small crowds can be tough to please. Overall, I had a very positive experience here. read more

My friends and I have been going here for years, and I love it! You have to know which shows to see, so you know what to expect. If you want to hang out with a big crowd and see a bunch of hilarious games and scenes, go to Theatresports, which is 10:30 on Fridays and Saturdays. For their other shows, look to see what's playing, because they have different shows year round... its usually more like an improvised play, and most of them are really funny, but its not as loud as Theatresports. They have an awesome Christmas show, which is probably my favorite thing they do. They also have good holiday events, like their New Years Eve party (last year was awesome) and their Valentines show. Campfire is another one that's pretty good, especially if you like ghost stories. The 7:00 shows are usually good, but sometimes they have a small audience, and they don't have teams, like Theatresports. It looks like families have fun at that show, but unless you really want to get up on stage, I'd say you should go see Theatresports instead. read more

I've never been to a show like this before and it definitely exceed my expectations! I was so amazed with how witty and quick they were with acting out whatever lines or topics were thrown out at them! It was such a great show! read more

The show here is great! The comedians were really on the ball and skilled at keeping the flow moving while still being hilarious! I thought the best part was how they engaged the audience, by taking topic suggestions and bringing people up on stage. The bar is on the small side but they have a nice selection of drinks. The seats were surprisingly comfy - better than I was expecting for the size of the venue. The theater is small enough to feel intimate and friendly. Ticket prices seem pretty reasonable too - we'll be back! read more

THE SHOWS - they're a great break from the monotonous, 9-to-5 workday. Many of them include active audience participation, where you're calling out suggestions at the very least. There's a bar and the people there are friendly and welcoming. THE SCHOOL - yes, there's a school here too. You would be absolutely astonished just how relieving it is to get up with a group and act silly. Improv is something that is different every single time and you'll never get bored with. By the way, it's a little tricky to find. Just walk down the cobblestone road near Pike Place and to the left. You'll find it there. read more

How did I not know this place existed after living in Seattle for over 2 decades? UP puts on improv shows at the market place theater which is a small and intimate environment. Plus a bar :-) I watched my first improv show here not too long ago and had a great time. The actors were hilarious and open to the audience members' suggestions. The actors are definitely fearless. We had a great night out here and would come back. read more

Live improv at its best! I used to frequent theatersports (held every Saturday night). The shows are funny, interactive, and always unique (it is improvisation, after all). I've seen bachelorette parties, prom groups, and gatherings of friends pass through here, and I've bought plenty of dates. Fantastic location near the waterfront, pike place market, and plenty of other activities, so there is lots you can indulge in after the show. My only warning is to those with children: as the show is improvised and (on Saturday nights) usually for adult audiences, the humor can get a little bit dirty. Nothing that would make a 15 year old blush, but if you've got children under 13 or so you may want to exercise a bit of caution. Again, since no show is the same it COULD end up squeaky clean, but no guarantees. However, If you're an adult and have never seen a show here, give live improv a try. You'll thank me. read more

Best improv I've ever seen! Really recommend! These people are very talented! Came from LA watched this on our last night so worth it! My husband's first time and he loves it! Don't hesitate people!!! read more

Unexpected Productions - Performing Arts Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Have done several things with these guys. Both as a partner for corporate team building events and as a guests at their shows! They were fantastic in both respects but in this review I will focus on my experiences as a guest. I have gone here several times- dates with the wife and for my bachelor party. It was a really fun experience for both. Both times they have recommended the Theater Sports instead of the earlier show due to it being more fun (which it is!). The earlier show is better for kids and families as it stays in the PG realm and the later show goes into the PG-13 realm. They will take care of you if you go for a special occasion (you might get called up on stage) and if you make good suggestions for theater sports you might get a free ticket to return. Be ready to participate with your creative and witty suggestions. As far as the Bar goes: It is not a fully stocked bar- they have some liquors and beer. And PLEASE UNDERSTAND- the person running it is usually one of their improve people working the bar and not an actual bartender most of the time. So be patient, explain your drink if it is complicated so that you don't get upset or get the wrong thing. To make up for this though they often make the drinks VERY strong so you do get your monies worth. Have fun and a MUST go if you haven't. read more

A very good experience. We experienced, 'An improvised Christmas carol'. Going in I was a bit skeptical but the act was very professional, funny and replete with moments of amazing acting. Overall I completely enjoyed it and would recommend this is show as a great way to spend a weekend evening. The location is amazing too read more

My teen daughter and I truly loved your show. We came for the 7pm show and were fortunate enough to stay until 10 pm. I was laughing so hard that I had tears. Thanks for the belly aches - we will be back! read more

Complete hit or miss. The cast is constantly changing, so the talent changes accordingly. Went several times and have had nights where I couldn't have spent $10 in a better way and also nights where I just sat there bored. The 2020 New Year's production cost me $90 for two tickets and was a complete waste of money. The talent on stage was a boring mess and the few veterans on stage couldn't rescue the show. When it is good however, it is REALLY good and just a fantastic time in a convenient area of downtown. Totally worth $10 to give it a try but personally I will never buy $45 tickets again. read more

First comedy show ever and I wish I made it a point to check out improv over some of my personal movie choices or staying in to watch bad scary movies on Netflix. The cast is on point! Loved the show, imagination, punch lines, and the way they paint an image for the audience with no props. Definitely coming back for sure :) I would recommend this place after an afternoon of exploring the market. You can laugh off the calories from all the snacking ;) read more

Only cool people is Seattle have been to THEATERSPORTS!! Great for birthday parties or groups!! It almost makes me want to do improv- aside from my fear of talking in front of people :) Do it and preserve the great things in seattle!! read more

Funny, wacky, slightly inappropriate and all around silly. This is what my teenage kids and I experienced when we had our most recent visit here. Theatre sports has been a place of entertainment for me since 1992. Yea I'm old. And it's still as funny! To be honest, I wish it was a little more dirty; more swear words, sexual references, un-politically correct jokes etc. Most people attending are of age and should not be offended by this. The downside is the space between your seat and the one in front of you. My tall son had to sit sideways. Quite uncomfortable for tall people. Of course ill go back; it's a part of Seattle culture and needs to continue. This fire can't die! And the gum wall is gross. read more

Unexpected Productions and Seattle Theatresports was my very first improv show, ever! I must have been fifteen a the time and the show was so brilliant, so funny and so amazing that I brought my friends back again and again and again... just the best. I live in LA now, but I go back as often as possible and to this day the shows at Unexpected Productions remain smart, entertaining, engaging and (once again) brilliant! Cannot recommend them enough :) read more

Looking for laughs? This is your place. Their "Theater Sports" improv comedy show is the oldest of its kind in the country and is performed every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night. Audience participation is encouraged, but if you're freaked out by that, don't worry--they only call on people who raise their hands. Friday and Saturday nights tend to draw a rowdier party crowd, while Sundays are a bit quieter and sometimes draw families and kids. The beauty of improv comedy is that the shows (and in this case, the players/actors as well) are always different--these guys are really talented, though, so it's consistently funny. Unexpected Productions also offers other ongoing and annual shows, including a Halloween show and a Christmas/holiday production. (Years ago I saw them perform the "X-mas Files," a spoof on the X-Files, and I laughed so hard that I almost injured myself.) If you want to learn how to perform improv comedy, check out their classes, which are offered year-round. Who knows, maybe you'll become the next Ryan Stiles! (One of their alumni, he went on to become a regular on Whose Line is it Anyway and a main cast member of the Drew Carey Show.) read more

Theatresports is always a great time!! Lots of laughs and fun audience participation! Drinks and snacks are inexpensive as well. On Fridays and Saturdays, you can go to the 8:30pm show and stay for the 10:30pm Theatresports show for free! I highly recommend Unexpected productions for shows AND for taking improv classes! The classes are SO. MUCH. FUN!!! read more