Comedy Improv is Back at Black Box Theater

The Black Box Improv Theater is back! Starting tonight (which is sold out) the laughs return to the stage with a new ownership group. Originally founded in 2012 by Justin Howard, he has turned his focus to corporate consulting.  With the Covid-19 pandemic, the theater closed its doors in March of 2020 unsure what the future held. Thankfully, in the summer of 2021, ten veteran performers and instructors pulled together to take over the space and return the theater to a viable entertainment option for the southwest Ohio region.

Kevin Carter, Garrett Geilenfeldt, James Fritchman,  Othalia Larue,  Jason VonVille,  Teri Herbstreit,  PJ Lindsay, Jonathan Sauline and Bryan Lakatos now share the tasks required to operate the theater.  Some teach, some perform, others handle legal responsibilities, accounting and marketing.  They all pitched in for a big clean up and refresh day, handling some repairs, painting and other refreshes to the space.  They’ve even applied for a liquor license- but for now it’s BYOB.

Shows that are inspired by audience suggestions will be Wed – Sun nights, after this weekends grand re-opening. They feature long form improv featuring  locally grown improvisors and we have a variety of shows ranging from hour long shows based on your personal stories to a local favorite, our improvised musicals!  Our musicals feature the former music director of Second City, Trey Stone.

Another major part of Black Box are the Improv classes.  They are a great way to improve public speaking skills, overcome shyness, meet new friends, and more! In Level 1, students learn to be comfortable and have fun on stage using the #bbimprov approach to improv comedy. They will focus on learning to actively listen and responding in a “YES AND” manner. The listening and awareness techniques you will learn can be invaluable in your personal life, or at your work.  In Level 2, students continue to learn how to be comfortable and have fun on stage using the #bbimprov approach to improv comedy. The  focus is on the rules of improv, including beats, escalation and scene edits.​ More information about classes will be posted to there website soon.

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The Black Box Improv Theater

518 East 3rd Street,

Dayton, OH 45402

[email protected]​

Doors open 30 minutes before showtime and seating is first come, first served. Theater and Stage are both handicap accessible and the showroom seats about 100.