Ampersand: An Improv Showcial is where training meets the stage.

Each week begins with a high-energy, 60 minute improv intensive led by veteran coach Sam Super* designed to explore key aspects of long-form improv.

After the intensive, the room shifts from workshop to stage as participants gather with their teams to perform a 12–15 minute improv set.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your improv chops, meet a community of playful collaborators, or simply spend your week laughing and creating, Ampersand brings the best of both worlds together—learning and performing, side by side.

Times/Days: Thursdays 6:00-8:00pm (9/17/26 - 11/5/26)

Location: Fine Arts Building "Little Studio" (410 S. Michigan Ave. 7th Floor)

How It Works:

Upon registration, participants are assigned to an 8-10 person team under the guidance of a Captain (i.e. an experienced improviser who serves as 'ring-leader' throughout the session).

At the first meeting (9/17/26), participants meet their Captain and teammates, choose a team name and select a classic improv form to focus on throughout the season (ex. LaRonde, Harold, Armando, etc.).

Each week (Thursdays at 6:00pm), participants gather in the Fine Arts Building's "Little Studio" for a 60 minute improv intensive led by Sam Super.

Following the intensive, each team performs a 12-15 minute long-form improv set.

At the conclusion, participants are encouraged to socialize across teams and build community!

*Sam Super (he/him/his) performs, writes and teaches comedy across the globe. For two years Sam performed in Amsterdam at the legendary Boom Chicago and recently returned to direct their critically acclaimed mainstage show. Other comedy credits include: The Second City’s Improv All-Stars, Baby Wants Candy, Revolver (iO Theater), The Deltones (iO Theater), ComedySportz Chicago, and several cruise ships with The Second City and Norwegian Cruise Lines. Sam teaches in the Improv and Conservatory programs at the Second City Training Center where he was honored as the 2017 Teacher of the Year.