On this hilarious DC Improv comedy date, you’ll laugh so hard it’ll take your breath away – and theirs. Delight in every show, from new acts to global legends.
The Background
Since 1992, DC Improve Comedy Club has been killing it. After all, they’re the Capitol’s #1 comedy venue for a reason. To illustrate, their first show included Dave Chappelle, Brian Regan, and Ellen DeGeneres. Talk about a star-studded opening act. Comedy superstars love this stage and keep coming back to work on material and film specials. It’s not uncommon to see names like Jim Gaffigan, Adam Sandler, and Kevin Hart in the lineup.
However, this place is more than big standup names. DC Improv runs a comedy school to bring new talent to the stage. Acts vary from rookie performers and murder mysteries to dating game shows and reality tv spoofs. No matter when you look, you’ll find a perfect fit to make you laugh.
The Standout Features
Here’s why this date is a showstopper:
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Humor Check: A 2010 CBS News poll found that a sense of humor was five times more important than sex for a successful marriage. In other studies, humor outranked ambition, earning potential, and physical attractiveness when picking a partner. Findings supporting this idea are everywhere. Can you share a laugh?
- Set the Mood: According to the Mayo Clinic, laughter boosts your endorphins. The resulting contentment and lower stress support a lasting relationship.
- It’s Hot: We associate laughs with happiness, positivity, and confidence – all attractive features. Seeing a dazzling smile doesn’t hurt, either.
- Just Plain Fun: You deserve an enjoyable night, and having one increases the odds of another date.
The Experience
Date Lead Up - Snag a Seat
Since seating is first-come, first-served, we arrive 45 minutes early. However, the small venue guarantees a superb view from every seat. If you show up 20-30 minutes ahead, you’ll be fine. As soon as we grab seats by the front, I order the wing and fries combo. Then, my date requests a local beer. Before long, we’re enjoying our orders while discussing our favorite comedians.
Amidst the friendly atmosphere, we hit it off with a nearby couple. They loved the performer’s Netflix special and can’t wait to see her in person. Before we know it, they announce 10 minutes until showtime. While we wait, they hold an Instagram competition. When they announce the winner, he jumps up in glee to collect his prize.
As soon as the show starts, the room’s energy spikes. The first opening act takes the stage and I learn he’s the headliner’s boyfriend. His irreverent material gets the crowd laughing. It’s sweet that his affection for the headliner shines through his edgy content. What a couple.
Then, we’re inviting a new performer to the mic. In short order, his engagement with the front row leaves everyone in stitches. His style is distinct and I’m glad to have the variety. Between chuckles, I ask for a drink. In doing so, I meet my two-item minimum that’s part of my ticket. As the second act exits, we’re primed for the main event.
Date Main Event - Show Time
Soon, the beau returns to introduce our leading lady. After his booming voice calls out her name, the audience erupts in applause. Then, she runs on stage in a striped jumper. I notice her and her man both have mullet haircuts. When she points this out to the group, I can’t help but laugh.
The woman’s energy is infectious, and her set is unapologetically relatable. As she works the crowd like a pro, we’re impressed by her quick wit and boldness. At one point, I’m laughing so hard I’m gasping for air. I understand why she’s a successful writer, podcaster, actress, and, of course, comedian.
Next, I spot a woman wiping away a tear. The headliner is grilling her husband, and she’s loving it. The reactions from the seats are priceless. With each passing minute, the laughter gets louder. At the sound’s peak, the star says that’s her time. As she leaves, rambunctious claps follow her.
Date Wrap Up - Get Your Merch
The comedic couple stands in the back at a merchandise stand. As we stroll to the exit, fans ask for pictures and autographs. We chuckle as my date recounts his favorite pun. The sounds of our laughter trail behind us as the evening air brushes our faces.
The Planning
No need to do all the planning yourself. Here are the highlights, though always double check!
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for... | ✔ A few dates in ✔ Steady couple |
| Seasons | Runs year-round |
| Typical Hours | Closed on Mondays, open Tuesday-Sunday. Show dates and times vary and there may be multiple shows per night. Typically, shows start between 7pm and 9:45pm, though there are occasional afternoon shows. |
| Duration | 1.5 - 2 hours |
| Cost | Varies by performer but typically $20 - $35 for general admission. Reserved tickets are available for an additional cost. |
| Booking | Book online here. There's no need to bring a physical ticket to the event. You just need to give your name to the ticket desk upon arrival. |
| Website | |
| Address | 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 |
| Transportation | Metered street parking is limited. Parking garage options for upcoming shows are here. Nearest metro stations are Dupont Circle and Farragut West. The closest Capital Bikeshare station is at 18th St and L St NW. |
| Attire | Wear what's comfortable. No need to dress up. |
| Contact Info | Phone: (202) 296-7008; Email: support@dcimprov.com |
| Special Features | In addition to improv comedy acts, enjoy murder mysteries, roasts, reality tv spoofs, dating shows, holiday-themed acts, and more! Want to try improv comedy? Sign up for an improv comedy class. |
| Special Considerations | In addition to your ticket, you are required to purchase at least two items from their menu. These can be food or drinks. Some acts are more explicit than others. Before you purchase tickets for a show, we recommend sampling the performer's content on social media to ensure it matches your humor. Seats are first-come, first served. The earlier you arrive, the more seating options you'll have. We recommend coming at least 30 minutes before the show starts. |
| Rescheduling & Cancellation Policies | All tickets are final. There are no refunds, exchanges, or cancellations if you can't make the event. You'll only get a refund if the venue cancels a performance. You can transfer tickets if you can't make an event. Simply call the venue and let them know the name of who will be picking up your tickets. |
| Accessibility | If you need assistance to attend a show, we recommend notifying the box office in advance via email or phone. With notice, they may be able to reserve a spot in the showroom that is better for wheelchair access. Upon arrival, a staff member will escort you to the building's elevator. |
The Pre- and Post-Date Options
If you want to keep the date going, we have a cheat sheet to guide you to your next destination. You can visit these places before your date, too. Make this list your own. The map shows DC Improv (purple), as well as bonus date options (green) in one place. Before you go, though, always check times in case something’s changed.
- Le DeSales (2 min walk): French graffiti art, leather chairs, and warm decor invite you inside. The award-winning chef blends his experience cooking in New York, France, Belgium, and the UK into mesmerizing twists on French classics. Closed Sundays. Open Mon: 4-10pm, Tues-Thurs: 11:30am – 10pm, Fri-Sat: 11:30am – 10:30pm.
- Boqueria (4 min walk): This spunky tapas restaurant is the real deal. Spain certified it for its authentic Spanish cuisine and produce so you know it’s quality. Try their margaritas for a special treat. Open Mon-Thurs: 11am – 1opm, Fri-Sat: 11am – 11pm, Sun: 11am – 9pm.
- Residents Cafe & Bar (5 min walk): The name pays homage to the founder’s immigrant roots and appreciation to be a DC resident. From curated house music playlists to the gorgeous surrounding greenery, you’ll have a multi-sensory experience here. The simple menu bursts with flavors from burgers to Turkish breakfast classics. Note: All checks have an automatic 20% gratuity, 18% of which goes to service workers. Closed Mondays. Open Tues – Wed: 5 – 10pm, Thurs: 5 – 11pm, Fri: 5pm – 12am, Sat: 11am – 12am, Sun: 11am – 9pm.
- Kramers (11 min walk): Since 1976, this DC institution has been an iconic bookstore, event space for comedy, music, and more, and an award-winning restaurant. Explore your date’s cerebral side before savoring some of the neighborhood’s most delectable flavors. Vegan options are available. Open Mon-Sat: 8pm – 10pm, Sun: 8am – 9pm.