Entertainment
Toronto's Improv and Sketch Comedy Venues, Compared
Where to see improv and sketch in Toronto: Second City, Bad Dog Theatre, Comedy Bar, the Rivoli, SoCap and more, with tips on choosing the right night.
Stand-up gets most of the attention, but Toronto has a deep improv and sketch scene. Destination Toronto's comedy guide (published November 2024) and Bad Dog Theatre's own site point to several places worth knowing, each with a different feel.
Second City Toronto: the famous name
Opened in 1973, Second City helped launch performers such as Catherine O'Hara and Eugene Levy. It is the obvious choice for a first improv and sketch night out.
Bad Dog Theatre: the artist-run improv institution
Bad Dog describes itself as an artist-run charity that has produced improvised comedy for over 40 years, starting as Theatresports Toronto in 1982. Its flagship Theatresports show plays on a Friday-night residency at Comedy Bar, and other shows include Toronto I Love You, La Grande Jatte and Hook Up. Its Academy at 392 Spadina Avenue runs improv classes for adults and youth, so it suits anyone who wants to try improv rather than just watch.
Comedy Bar: the volume pick
Destination Toronto says Comedy Bar hosts about 150 Toronto shows a month across sketch, improv, alternative and stand-up, with locations at Bloor Street West and the Danforth (the Danforth spot has a full restaurant). It's the best bet when you want something on almost any night.
The Rivoli and SoCap: neighbourhood options
The Rivoli on Queen West runs weekly improv and sketch shows in the backroom of a restaurant and concert hall, and space is limited, so book early. SoCap Comedy (Social Capital Theatre) on the Danforth is a multi-level venue offering improv, stand-up and sketch.
Smaller and offbeat rooms
Wenona Craft Beer Lodge on Bloor West hosts bi-weekly shows including Disaster Sketch Comedy alongside pub fare. Free Times Café is credited with about 500 comedy shows a year.
How to choose
For a polished, historic night, go to Second City. For the purest improv, see Bad Dog at Comedy Bar. For flexibility and choice, pick Comedy Bar. For a casual night with food or beer, try the Rivoli or Wenona. Lineups and showtimes change, so check each venue's schedule before you go.
