What started as an idea to fill a recently vacated production slot back in January of 2008 has turned into a sure-fire hit improv-aganza and now THE ORIGINAL IMPROV GLADIATORS is back with their thirty-third season!  Over 180 teams and 700 improvisers have competed in this cross between American Gladiators, American Idol, and Who’s Line is it Anyway?  Judged by theater professionals from all over Chicagoland and pitted against the home team, “The Improv Gladiators”, you never know what to expect other than an exciting and entertaining night of competition, chaos, and comedy.  

In round one, teams perform 8 minutes of long-form improv.  They are then are evaluated and scored by judges from theater and improv companies all over Chicago including iO, ARFTCo, and Second City as well as special celebrity guest judges.  Audience response will also count for a percentage of scoring. In round two, teams will clash with the house pros—The Improv Gladiators—who will dive into the fray with a furious frenzy of improv skills to block the teams from scoring points in your favorite short-form games such as Party Quirks and Story Story Die.

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