FAQS

What is improv theatre? Is it like stand-up comedy?

Each and every Trapped In A Rumor Improv show is completely improvised, no two shows are ever the same. It is different from stand-up or sketch comedy as the performers take audience suggestions and make up the content on the fly. At TiR, we produce improv shows in a variety of formats. Our signature is Comedy Sliders, a fun, fast-paced improv show full of improvised scenes, songs, and games. We’ve also done some “long-form” shows, which are more like improvised stage plays or movies

How do I get to the theater? What about parking?

We have posted maps with directions on how to get to both the Village Theatre and the Lesher Center. At the Village Theatre, there is street parking and a lot behind the theatre, but that is limited, so arrive early. At the Lesher Center, parking is available in the North Locust Street Parking Garage, adjacent to the Lesher Center. There is also ample street parking around the Center and additional garages throughout the downtown area.

What time does the show start?

Our Village Theatre and Lesher Center for the Arts shows start at 7:45pm. Contact the Village Theatre box office here. Contact the Lesher Center box office here. To see our show calendar, click here.

How long does the show last?

Our shows run roughly 2 hours. Since every show is completely improvised, times will vary. Shows will have a 15 minute intermission.

Do you serve alcohol or food?

At the Village Theatre, we offer non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. At the Lesher, the theatre provides our concessions, which include beer and wine. All proceeds at the Village Theatre help support our not-for-profit theatre company.

Is there reserved seating?

All seating, including advance purchased tickets, is general admission and there is no reserved seating. To purchase tickets, go to the tickets page and click on the show you are interested in. Follow the link to place and review your order.

Is disabled seating available?

Yes. The Lesher Center is wheelchair accessible and theatres are equipped with assistive listening systems for hearing-impaired patrons. We would like to accommodate all patrons. Please let us know if you have special seating requirements at the time you purchase tickets.  Additional accessibility inquiry can be made to the Audience Services Coordinator by calling (925) 295-1400. At the Village Theatre, wheelchair seating is available for users and their companions. Please be sure to mention your needs at the time of ticket purchase as special requests cannot be guaranteed without advance notice. Assisted Listening Devices are available at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis. One current form of ID (Driver’s License, State or Military ID) with address is required as a deposit per headset. Service animals that qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act are always welcome. Service animals must remain on a leash or harness at all times. Please alert the Box Office if you intend to bring a service animal in order to ensure proper seating is reserved for you. You may contact the box office at (925) 314-3400.

Do I need to purchase my ticket in advance?

Buying tickets in advance online is a great choice because you are guaranteed a seat.

Do you have group discounts?

Yes, we offer discount tickets for groups of 10 or more. Contact our Group Sales to make arrangements.

Are your shows appropriate for kids?

We have always welcomed theatergoers of all ages. Kids and teens tend to really enjoy our shows and occasionally we’ll perform a scene or game with them on stage (but only if they volunteer). However, please keep in mind that our shows are completely improvised and that we have no idea what the content is going to be. Our shows are rated “PG-13” but ultimately, we can’t make any guarantees regarding “appropriateness.”

Will I have to get on stage and do stuff?

o! Audience members are never put on the spot or dragged on stage. Usually, we like to draw inspiration from our audiences by asking them for suggestions to start our scenes. Occasionally, we may ask for audience members to come up on stage to participate in a scene or game, but it’s completely voluntary.

Is there anything to do before/after your show nearby?

Many things! We’ve put together a list of restaurants, bars, and nightlife on our Plan A Visit page. 

I have extra tickets I cannot use. Do you offer a refund?

All ticket sales are final; we do not offer refunds. 

How do I use a Guest Ticket or other Complimentary Pass? Do I have to make a reservation?

Guest Tickets can be redeemed at the box office the night of the show. For Complimentary Passes, however, we don’t accept reservations nor can we guarantee seating; it is first come, first served.

I have a suggestion, idea, or complaint. Who do I tell?

We love to hear from you! Feedback, both positive and negative, helps us offer a better theater experience for our patrons. Send a message to our Infomation representative.

I went to a show and it looks like fun. How can I perform with TiR on stage?

We offer classes for people with all levels of improv experience. Auditions for the Company are held on an “as needed” basis, and are highly competitive. If you have questions about classes, contact our Classes department. If you have questions about auditions, contact our Auditions department.

Do you guys perform at corporate events and private parties?

Absolutely! TiR Imrpov can bring an improv show to your private party, company, or organization. For private shows, click here. In addition, our team can also bring fun, interactive trainings and team building to your work. More info on trainings will be posted soon.

What is with the name? What does "TiR" stand for?

TiR is the acronym for “Trapped In A Rumor.” We found that “TiR” was a lot easier for people to associate to improv than “Trapped In A Rumor.” Now, for “Trapped In A Rumor,” that’s an entirely different story. For TiR’s history, click here.