History

Improv Mafia was founded in 1998 on the campus of Illinois State University. To this day, the alpha ISU chapter continues to exist, performing weekly shows for students and community members. For more information, visit the ISU Improv Mafia site.

In 1999, Improv Mafia was labeled the Funniest Improv Troupe in the World based on audience applause at a cage match in Chicago's prestigious Improv Olympic theatre. The label lasted for one week as a new cage match winner was crowned the following week. However, we still consider ourselves the funniest in the world. Our mothers agree.

Today, the seasoned veterans of the Improv Mafia provide the greater Chicagoland area with gut-wrenching humor every other week at the First Street Playhouse. The cast is a cohesive collaboration of experienced actors and improvisational comedians; some of which are also employed as a high school teacher, a business executive, a sales person, a tech guy, a hostess and a temp. Together, the troupe has over 100 years of improv experience. If you're looking for an exciting, entertaining and affordable night out, this is it.

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