UCB Improv Classes Return To Monkey Barrel Comedy This Summer

Exciting news! UCB classes are returning to Monkey Barrel Comedy this summer. If you’ve been thinking about trying improv, building your comedy skills, or getting on stage more regularly, this is the perfect time to jump in.

Following a successful launch in March, we’re bringing Upright Citizens Brigade’s internationally recognised improv training back to Edinburgh for a new batch of courses running across May, June, and July.

Classes will be taught by UCB’s Toni Charline Ramos, a regular guest on popular podcasts Comedy Bang Bang and Improv4Humans, and Drew DiFonzo Marks, a former Artistic Director of UCB’s LA theatre who has appeared on Reno 911! and Brooklyn Nine-Nine.

Why Try Improv?

You don’t need to be an aspiring SNL cast member to get a huge amount out of improv.

Improv is one of the best ways to build confidence, think faster on your feet, become a better listener, speak more comfortably in front of other people, and get used to collaborating creatively in the moment. It pushes you out of your comfort zone in a genuinely fun, low-pressure environment - and skills you pick up transfer far beyond the stage.

That’s why these classes are just as valuable for people looking to try something new, meet people, and challenge themselves as they are for performers trying to sharpen their comedy instincts.

Why Take a Class With UCB?

Upright Citizens Brigade is one of the most respected comedy schools in the world, with alumni including Jason Mantzoukas, Ayo Edebiri, and Bowen Yang.

Their game-based approach to long-form improv is taught to thousands of students every year across New York, Los Angeles, Austin, and Pittsburgh - and through our partnership, you can now study that exact same curriculum here in Edinburgh.

That means:

• Expert instruction from one of the world’s leading improv institutions,

• A structured course designed to make you a sharper, funnier, more confident performer,

• And the chance to follow the likes of Kevin Bridges and James Acaster by performing on stage at Monkey Barrel Comedy

There really isn’t a better place to start.

Which Course Is Right For You?

Improv 101

Perfect for complete beginners, curious first-timers, stand-ups looking to develop performance skills, or improvisers who want to try UCB-style of improv.

You’ll learn the fundamentals of scene work, listening, agreement, character, and UCB’s signature game-based approach.

Improv 201

Designed for students who have completed UCB 101 or improvisers with enough previous experience to move into more advanced scene work.

This class builds on the basics and pushes further into stronger choices, sharper edits, and finding the funniest thing in every scene. If you've completed a 101 course at another theatre, and want to jump into UCB style improv, we're also running an online-only workshop to help you adjust. You can learn more here.

Summer Course Dates

Improv 101 (8 Weeks)

Mondays, 7PM–10PM | May 25 – July 13

Improv 201 (8 Weeks)

Wednesdays, 7PM–10PM | May 27 – July 15

Improv 201 (8 Weeks)

Saturdays, 11AM–2PM | May 30th - July 18th

Improv 101 (1-Week Intensive)

Monday–Friday, 10AM–2:30PM | June 8 – June 12

Improv 201 (1-Week Intensive)

Monday–Friday, 10AM–2:30PM | July 13 – July 17

Training At Monkey Barrel Comedy

As well as learning with UCB, you’ll be training and performing in one of the UK’s leading comedy venues and the “beating heart” (Telegraph) of the world’s biggest arts festival.

Monkey Barrel Comedy is committed to creating more opportunities for improvisers in Edinburgh, and every UCB student will begin that process with a graduation performance on one of our stages - with further performance opportunities continuing to grow through the partnership.

This isn’t just a class. It’s a way into a growing community developing at ‘Scotland’s Best Comedy Venue’ (Chortle Awards 2026).

Scholarship Opportunities

We’re pleased to confirm that Edinburgh students will also be eligible for UCB’s Diversity Scholarship Program which provides financial support, networking events, and targeted educational opportunities to historically underrepresented groups. More information about the program, including the application process criteria, can be found on the UCB website.

Ready To Book?

If you're ready to sign up, we’d recommend booking early.

Further information and booking details can be found on the UCB website.