National Comedy Theatre (original) (raw)
San Diego's Legendary Improv Comedy Show
San Diego's World Famous Improv Comedy Show
For over two decades, the National Comedy Theatre has been entertaining audiences of all sizes and types across the nation with our unique brand of interactive, improv comedy. The National Comedy Theatre San Diego presents an improv comedy show featuring professional comedians who create a series of scenes – all based on audience suggestions. Most of our shows are clean and appropriate for all audiences. In addition, we have taught improv classes to thousands of people of all levels and backgrounds for over 25 years. Come see why we are voted Best Comedy Show in San Diego year after year!
What we Do
National Comedy Theatre is the premiere destination for all things improv comedy in San Diego!
We've performed over 7000 shows since 1999 and are the longest running show in San Diego history.
San Diego Comedy Shows
Every Thursday through Sunday we have shows starting at 7:30 with a mix of casts and styles.
Improv Classes
Think you'd enjoy doing what we do on stage? Sign up for our San Diego improv classes to get started.
Team building
Did you know improv comedy can improve cross-functional performance & cohesion? Well, now you do.
Private Events
Add laughs to any corporate or private event with National Comedy Theatre's professional cast!
Meet our Casts
Offering a variety of improvised, on-the-spot comedy for over 25 years!
Buy Tickets for our next show!
Where we are
People are talking about us
Mary L
2/04/2024
Only Go If You Love to Laugh! We usually try to see comedy shows when we are traveling. Sometimes, the shows are REALLY bad. But we laugh ourselves silly with the NCT improv show we saw a few nights ago. They do a terrific job of involving the audience and keeping the energy really high and really fun. We highly recommend seeing an NCT show - you will not be disappointed. They are top notch.
Had a great time here! Saw a postcard advertising it and was happy to book a 7:30 ticket for that night for a group of 4 in from out of town. The show was pretty long, with all improv games. I’ve seen plenty of improv before and this is on par! We were laughing most of the time. Lots of good restaurants around too.
Alan D.
2/01/2024
Amazing improv experience! The referee was hilarious, and the teams competing were so beautifully talented in their crafts. Would highly recommend going with some friends, or even just on your own if you're looking for a night filled with laughter. And the pricing was fair too!
Great show, I think our crowd participation wasn't the greatest, but the team does the best they can with words given. (Sunday night improv show) It was our first time, but definitely not our last. Go check it, have an open mind and appreciate the talent.
Such a fun show. We have gone repeatedly! Ever show is a new experience! You must participate!
Very entertaining. Great date night idea
William M.
8/25/2023
At the 9:45 Friday unrated show, I could not stop laughing. Those folks on stage were unbelievably funny! I don't like staying up late but would do it again as soon as I can. SO GOOD!
What a great show and amazing for a date night. Can't wait to go back
My wife and I went to the National Comedy Theatre for Valentine’s Day, and it was such a great decision! The show was absolutely hilarious, we were laughing the entire night. The cast was quick, clever, and so good at involving the audience without making it awkward.
It was the perfect mix of fun, energy, and creativity. You can tell they really love what they do. If you’re looking for a unique date night idea in San Diego, this is it. We had an amazing time and will definitely be back
Love Improv. Love competition. We're in business, baby.
It never the same material! And I love how they are so creative! ! It’s truly amazing and interactive! I rave about this place to all my friends.
Always a fun and hilarious night at NCT—I've been dozens of times, and the show has always been varied and enjoyable. I highly recommend the late night shows and Valentine's Day special show.
My family and I went to NCT's New Year's Eve party and had a phenomenal time. The show was entertaining, the performers were hilarious, and the crew was very helpful and pleasant. The theater was also very nice. My daughter said it was the best New Year's she had. I would recommend this to everyone.
## Side-Splitting Fun at National Comedy Theatre San Diego! Looking for a guaranteed laugh in San Diego? Look no further than the National Comedy Theatre (NCT)! This place is a gem for anyone who wants an evening filled with hilarity and unexpected fun. **Here's what makes NCT so awesome:** * **Improv All-Stars:** The cast at NCT are top-notch improvisers who think on their feet and create side-splitting scenes based on audience suggestions. Get ready to be amazed by their wit and comedic timing! * **Non-Stop Laughs:** From the moment the show starts, you'll be hooked. The fast-paced, interactive format keeps the energy high and the laughs coming all night long. My face hurt from smiling so much! * **Something for Everyone:** NCT offers a variety of shows, including family-friendly options and adult-themed nights. No matter your comedic taste, you'll find a show that leaves you in stitches. * **Intimate Setting:** The theatre itself is cozy and inviting, creating a fun and personal atmosphere. You feel like you're right in the thick of the action. **Bonus Tip:** Get there early to snag a good seat and grab some drinks from the snack bar. **Overall:** The National Comedy Theatre is a must-visit for anyone seeking a night of laughter and entertainment in San Diego. It's affordable, accessible, and absolutely hilarious. You won't regret checking it out!
Bonnie Benitez
12/16/2024
We saw the annual improv show starring teenagers and young adults who were on the spectrum. They were amazing!
Mary N.
1/02/2024
Laughed our way into 2024!
Very glad we attended the NYE show. There was dessert throughout the show. Popcorn, candy, and drinks stand for sale. Everyone was very nice.
Show started around 9:40pm and ended around 11:40pm. It was a pretty intimate space. Time definitely flew by because everyone was having fun and laughing! Great improv show and would definitely do it again.
Cara N.
2/21/2026
This comedy club in Little Italy is great. Creative and engaging improv. Everyone is professional and funny. Lots of local talent. A really good time.
A fabulous evening of entertainment! The performers were 1st rate!
Angela W.
3/02/2026
I had a wonderful evening at the National Comedy Theatre. This was my first improv show ever, but as a huge Who's Line is It Anyways fan, I knew I was in for a treat. The theatre is small and tucked away near a British pub. Parking is rough on the busy streets but we found a spot in the residential area nearby.
We arrived close to the start of the show, so there was not a long wait to check in. The process was quick and they sell reasonably priced popcorn and drinks in the entryway. They do open seating in the very small, intimate theater. The show started promptly and the energy was so fun. The host was high energy and both teams gave it their all. Essentially, the two teams compete against each other with the voting being done by audience cheers. I'm glad to say that the team I was rooting for won! Throughout the show, they would often invite audience participation but they do not force it on anyone, and it is all very good natured. Time flew by and there was a 15 min intermission in the middle. The bathroom is outside the theater and there were staff member standing by to direct lost patrons.
At the end of the show, the cast members stood by the exit to chat, and accept congratulations and high-fives as we left. I had a great first live comedy experience at the National Comedy Theatre, and I would love to attend more of their shows in the future!
Bella C.
4/16/2024
This place is amazing.
The acts are incredible and hilarious! Friendly actors/comedians.
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