Improv Entertainment Options

Main Stage Improv performs a unique laugh out loud show of improv games in the style of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” This interactive non-stop high energy show is driven by the suggestions of YOU-the audience! 

Main Stage Improv

Main Stage Improv with seven cast member headshots on a black background

Improv Workshops

Group photo of Garrett with teen Improv Group

Improve your quick thinking and have a blast with Main Stage Productions Improv Workshops, tailored to enhance your social fearlessness. Providing 1-hour and 2-hour sessions, Main Stage uses proven techniques from The Second City, Comedy Sportz, and Laugh Out Loud Theater to guide you through six interactive exercises. You’ll learn the fundamentals of improv, active listening, and confident speaking while also having fun and making new friends. Ideal for both individuals and teams, these workshops are a convenient way to elevate your improv skills.

Looking for a convenient local adult Improv class? Main Stage Productions offers a 8-week course designed to teach you the essentials and culminate in your own improv show. The course includes 7 two-hour classes, a 2-hour rehearsal, and a 1-hour graduation performance. You’ll learn basic improv principles, object work, character development, active listening, and team support. 

Registration for courses now open!

Improv Courses

Five people playing Improv game with arms locked. Garrett Gray instructing on the left

Improv At Your Doorstep

Main Stage Improv Workshop group photo

Hosting a private event at your company or a get-together at your house? Main Stage will come to your address to lead you and your guests in 1 hour of improv games and get everyone laughing, having fun, and breaking the ice! You and the guests will not only be the stars of the improv but also the hit of the event!

Some Testimonials From Others

I have reached out to Garrett more times than I can count to give his popular Improv workshops to everyday people. The goals in doing these workshops are to get people out of their shells, have fun, and make new friends. His workshops are so entertaining and fun, that word of mouth gets out and I need to book him twice. Second City and SNL don’t have anything on Garrett. When I think of Improv, I think Garrett.

Thad Gray Headshot

Thad Gray

These Improv workshops are great for all levels of improv experience. Garrett does a great job of creating a fun and safe environment for learning. He gave us smaller improv games to practice and teach us technique. It was a great experience for me, and it helped to build my confidence and my ability to adapt to a scene on the fly.

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Andrea Taylor

If you want to have fun and try something new you must take Garrett’s Improv Fundamentals Class. He offers a positive, inclusive class environment. His passion for teaching and developing everyone’s strengths is truly an art. The class is structured with a weekly syllabus and suggestions for homework. All together, Improv fundamentals was an unforgettable experience.

Kristen Nunez Headshot

Kristen Nuñez

Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d take an improv class, let alone perform on stage! My dad and I used to love watching Whose Line Is It Anyway? back in the day, marveling at how quick-witted and talented those performers were.

Then along came Garrett and His Main Stage Improv Fundamentals of Improv Class. I decided to give his class a try after hearing how improv can improve both personal and professional skills. And it’s true! But what I didn’t expect was the overwhelming positive feedback and support. Sure, I anticipated encouragement from Garrett—and he delivered that in spades—but the Improv Family I found in this group? Absolute gold.

Garrett’s teaching style is fun, approachable, and packed with constant feedback and encouragement. It made learning and growing so much easier and more rewarding.

I can’t wait to take the next-level class and keep building my improv skills. But even more importantly, I’m excited to continue growing with my amazing new Improv Family. Come join us!!

Student head shot Main Stage Improv

Judie Beshansky

I enjoyed the structure and instruction that Garrett provided with his improv games at the TEDx Naperville event in 2022. It was easy to join in and feel comfortable with something that might have been uncomfortable!

Ashley South Headshot

Ashley South

In business, there are so many areas in which people try and improve various skills to advance their careers. I believe the single most important category, that will dictate your trajectory regardless of your field, is your ability to deal with people and situations! With Garrett Gray’s Improv Workshops you will learn to think on your feet, adapt to change quickly, add a little humor to the situation and resolve conflict! Attend his Workshops and get ready to move your workspace to the big corner office!

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Shawn McPartland

Garrett initially introduced me to improv through Yes and And Toastmasters, and when I found out he was doing a 6 week Improv course, I jumped at the chance to learn even more! I highly recommend his Improv classes to the novice or the experienced Improv performer, because either way, you’re guaranteed to learn a lot, and have a blast!

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Dan Prochaska

After taking Main Stage Improv’s Adult Improv Fundamentals Course, I am so impressed with Garrett Gray’s amazing teaching qualities including: Preparation – each class began with a handout for the material we would cover along with occasionally homework assignments; Adaptability – even though we were sometimes faced with location challenges, Garrett managed to adapt and overcome the hurdles; Positive Encouragement – Garrett ended each class be having members express positive feedback observations to each other and he also provided weekly specific encouragement to each student individually. I urge anyone seeking to stretch themselves, and have tons of fun doing so, to take one of Garrett Gray’s Improv classes. You won’t regret it!

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Bill McQuillan

The Main Stage Improv show was outstanding! The cast was so talented, and everyone had great chemistry! We laughed non-stop.

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Danielle Myles

Garrett Gray and his supreme sense of humor and people focused philosophy made everyone feel like a star of their own comedy show when playing his improv games. Garrett has an uncanny ability to connect instantly with people of diverse backgrounds and all ages. When you are looking for a charismatic improv master, who can motivate your team, family or friends to think on their feet while having fun, Garrett Gray is your guy!

Maymona Nageye Headshot

Maymona Nageye

Our whole family had a great time at the Main Stage Improv show! Even our teenage son was into it and shouting answers and suggestions! It’s hard to pick a favorite skit as the whole night was great, but I still chuckle when I think about the hitchhikers and a three toed sloth.

Tara Kozlowski Headshot

Tara Kozlowski

Taking Garrett’s 7-week adult improv fundamentals class was an absolute delight. His wealth of knowledge in improv techniques combined with his positive and encouraging demeanor created an environment where creativity flourished. I felt empowered to step out of my comfort zone, embrace spontaneity, and build genuine connections with fellow classmates. Garrett’s guidance not only honed my improv skills but also instilled a newfound confidence in me both on and off the stage.

Dan Janousek

Attended an improv workshop with Garrett in 2024!  So much fun!  His positive method of teaching and group exercises helped me to get past feelings of awkwardness and thinking outside of MY box, making for more effective (and entertaining) communication.

Rick Dobczyk

Garrett’s online improv fundamentals course kept my improv skills sharp during the pandemic. No longer performing with my previous improv troupe, I was elated to take Garrett’s class because it helped me keep my reps up and keep my improv skills sharp!

Erin Hallstrom Headshot

Erin Hallstrom

I took Garrett’s online improv course and it was a game-changer in improving my ability to think on my feet. His improv classes are not just entertaining; they’ve given me invaluable skills in communication, quick thinking, and adaptability. I’ve seen his impact on others too—transforming even the most reserved individuals into confident communicators!

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Mike Scampini

Main Stage Improv’s 8-week Fundamentals of Improv class far exceeded my expectations! I’ve been thinking about taking an improv class for years and I’m so glad I finally did. I could not ask for a better instructor than Garrett. He makes the class an ideal space to let your inner child play, builds teamwork, and recognizes every student’s hidden talents. If you’re thinking about signing up, just go for it!

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Phil Vuollet

Main Stage Improv was absolutely hilarious! I couldn’t stop laughing 😂

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Iman Salami

The Main Stage Improv show at the Bit Theater was absolutely awesome! I was so impressed by the way the cast connected with the audience and made us all laugh throughout the whole show! Congratulations on such great team work on stage!

Cesar Rodriguez Headshot

Cesar Rodriguez

Garrett Gray is the ambassador of laughter! His mission of spreading joy, positivity, and laughter through Improv is changing the world one game at a time! His instructional approach is hands-on and supportive. As a student, you will experience Improv as a team by jumping in, building comedic muscle and confidence. Join his adult improv class and make an investment in yourself. You deserve to experience the transformative power of laughter!

Judy Wilk headshot

Judy Wilk

I highly recommend Main Stage Improv’s Adult Fundamentals Course! Garrett is a great instructor who helps you feel supported and confident in your improv abilities. Monday nights became my favorite night of the week as I looked forward to improvising and laughing with my team!

Student Main Stage Improv

Megan Cavanaugh

Superhero Improv was so much fun and a great way to interact with fellow C2E2 goers without any awkwardness.

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Adanna Byrd

Garrett’s Improv Workshop at our 2024 ND Loyal Spring Retreat at the University of Notre Dame was an incredible experience! His engaging style and carefully chosen improv games really brought our group together. I learned the importance of active listening and collaboration while having an absolute blast. Highly recommended for team building and fun!

Wendy Garcia Sigala University of Notre Dame ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, ANNUAL GIVING PROGRAMS, DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENT University of Notre Dame

Wendy Garcia Sigala

Garrett’s Fundamentals of Improv class is a great place to grow as a person and have fun at the same time! It can be really challenging to open up in everyday life because of a fear of others judging us. There is no judgement here; Garrett’s class is very supportive. You don’t have to worry about looking like an idiot or a comedic bit falling flat, because you always have Garrett and your teammates there to help you out. The class builds your confidence both in improv and in your regular life. It also enhances your abilities to listen carefully, think on your feet, and take risks. And, just as importantly, it’s fun! There were many classes where I arrived from work in a bad mood and left in a great one.

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Matt Seeberg

Garrett always puts together a creative improv set of entertaining exercises for his improv workshops for people from all walks of life to enjoy. Garrett’s a Pro!

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Audy Krygeris

The Improv in the park was a really great experience! I went into it having done ZERO improv before. I had never even seen an Improv show. But Garrett was able engage us, lead us and teach us how to do improv on the spot. On top of learning improv skills, I was able meet new people and get to know others better who I really didn’t know prior to this event.

Denny Chuong Headshot

Denny Chuong

I signed up for Garrett’s improv class to get out of my comfort zone and to have some fun.  I laughed my way through each class and learned a lot.  Garrett was a patient teacher and team builder and provided constant feedback and encouragement.  He worked with each person’s strengths to put together a fun graduation show at the end. If you are wondering if you should sign up for one of Garrett’s classes, the answer is YES!

Kristine Wszolek

Garrett’s 7-week improv class in Orland Park has exceeded my expectations.  As a Toastmaster, I signed up thinking it would help elevate my public speaking skills and in just a few sessions I realized the training provides so much more.  I am learning how to be more present in the moment, how to actively listen, how to respond freely & authentically and how to make meaningful connections out of ordinary interactions.  The laughter filled environment created by Garrett and my fellow classmates allowed me to let go of my fear of failure and to simply have fun with the exercises.  Garrett’s teaching style is perfectly paired with improv too because he is enthusiastic, genuinely supportive and encouraging at both the individual level and to us as a team.  I highly recommend taking Garrett’s class to anyone looking for a unique opportunity for personal development.

Martha Sojka

I have wanted to take a class like this for a long time. After seeing Garrett and his group perform, I signed up right away for his 7-week Improv Fundamentals class in Orland Park when I saw he was teaching. Honestly, I was nervous in the lead up to the class, but Garrett did such a great job of breaking the ice and making us comfortable to learn. Our group laughs so much during class and we have really bonded. If you have ever considered trying improv or want to learn to be an active listener and get out of your shell, I HIGHLY recommend taking Garrett’s course! You won’t regret it!

Israel Smith

Wow! Main Stage Improv was really good with so many funny comedy bits! Bringing up the couple on stage that was my favorite! It was amazing to watch the cast exaggerate the couple’s story into a laugh filled adventure.

Sai Siddhartha Lingampelli Headshot

Sai Siddartha Lingampelli

We love a good laugh, and had plenty during the Main Stage Improv show!

Donna Furmanek and Phyllis Stungis Headshot

Donna Furmanek and Phyllis Stungis

Great show! Awesome crew! High energy and different styles of comedy made my cheeks hurt.

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Kari Sipinen

I had an amazing time at Garrett’s 1-hour Improv workshop at the District 54 Toastmasters Winter TLI in February 2024 . The energy in the room was high, and the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly. The games forced me to be creative on the spot. My memory was also exercised. I would attend another workshop or class in a heartbeat!

Solomon Asine

Garrett is full of improv mastery and is bar none one of the best communicators in Chi-town! Garrett led a group of my guests in improv games at a party at my house. He brought his signature charisma, creativity, and care to my event. Garrett left people feeling engaged, challenged, and inspired while at the same time having fun!

You’ll not only have a great improv experience with Garrett but also build relationships, foster growth in your own skill set, and at the same time have a lotta laughs! I highly recommend the G man for your event!

Laurie Rusnak Headshot

Laurie Rusnak

Garrett Gray’s 7-week Improv Fundamentals Class was incredible. Garrett’s teaching style is fun, constructive, and always supportive.  His positivity is infectious. Your confidence grows with each class – from the activities and games that are designed to build on what you learn from week to week, to Garrett’s words of support during class, pointing out things you did well or were funny between classes, and to the amazing group of classmates who support each other and have a ton of fun with each week. I strongly recommend this class for anyone interested in challenging themselves and having a ton of laughs while they do it!

Mike Banker

I had an extraordinary experience in Garrett Gray’s IMPROV class. I took his 7-week course because I had to do more public speaking in my work. The training and coaching I received from Garrett went far beyond my expectations. It DID help me in my work, but in addition, the IMPROV experience had a huge impact on how I observe the intricacies of life now. I became more aware of body language, listening to others, timing, and above all… HUMOR! We-students always left our IMPROV class smiling, laughing, and feeling happy. Hey, this could be the solution to World Peace! I highly recommend taking any class that Garrett Gray teaches. It is rare to have a great teacher…Garrett Gray is one!

Michelle Alfano