Watch Performers From Around the World
Improvisers from around the world showcase their style of improv!
International Improv Comedy Festival
January 26-31, 2027
The Improv Centre is thrilled to announce the return of The Heat – International Improv Comedy Festival to Vancouver, BC, Canada! The Heat brings together world-class improvisers from across the globe for an unforgettable week of performances, workshops, and artistic collaboration.
Audiences will experience a diverse range of international improv styles, from acclaimed troupes from around the world to unique team-ups created just for The Heat. Each performance offers a one-of-a-kind glimpse into the creativity, connection, and spontaneous comedy that makes this festival so special.
Past festivals have featured artists from England, Aotearoa New Zealand, Zimbabwe, the Philippines, Canada, Estonia, the USA, and more, making The Heat a truly international celebration of improv.
“THE HEAT genuinely felt like an environment where I produced the best work of my life. I imagine this it’s what being an Olympic athlete is like, surrounded by excellence, passion, and drive to perform at the highest level.”
– Ryan Knighton, Second Breakfast, Aotearoa New Zealand (The Heat 2026)
“I really thoroughly enjoyed myself over the week. I feel like I have improved HUGELY from watching other improvisers…”
– Musa Saruro, The Impro Show, Zimbabwe (The Heat 2025)
“The positive energy was overwhelming and I felt right at home.”
– Andres Kalle, Ruutu10, Estonia (The Heat 2025)
Keep an eye on our website and social media as we announce the incredible international headlining troupes
and festival ensemble members joining us at The Heat 2027!
Apply to be in The Heat!
The application window is now open for improvisers who want to take part in our upcoming festival! We now have TWO options for performers:
(New!) Festival Ensemble
We are looking for an international Festival Ensemble. This team will be made up of 3-4 international improvisers who will apply individually, work with one of TIC’s coaches and perform with a group of high-level improvisers to present a never-before-seen festival ensemble showcase!
To be considered, players should:
• have substantial improv performance experience
• be able to perform in English
• be legally allowed to enter Canada (or be in Canada legally already)
Application Deadline: July 6, 2026 11:59pm PST
Headlining Troupes
If you’re part of an improv troupe and you’re interested in performing, we want you to apply!
To be considered, teams should:
• be a team of 3 people or less
• be able to perform in English
• ready and prepared to teach an improv workshop
• be legally allowed to enter Canada (or be in Canada legally already)
We can’t wait to bring your style of improv to our theatre!
All performers must be available in Vancouver on January 25th for festival orientation.
Length of stay and performance schedules will vary by performer. Review all details during application process.
Questions? Reach out to theheat@theimprovcentre.ca for answers!
Are You An Improviser? We want you for 2027!
See Performers From Around the World!
Watch the best improvisers from around the globe – without needing to renew your passport!
Learn Something New
Take part in unique improv workshops led by the festival’s international guests!
Shows You'll
Never See Twice
World-class improv, on a world-class stage. Only at The Improv Centre.
Shows You'll
Never See Twice
World-class improv, on a world-class stage. Only at The Improv Centre.
The Heat – 2026 Schedule
All shows in The Heat are rated PG.
Weds, Jan. 28
Teresa & Folusho 🇬🇧 Showcase
ft. The Improv Centre 🇨🇦
– 7:00pm
Dumb John 🇺🇸
& Michelle Impro 🇬🇧
– 9:00pm
Thurs, Jan. 29
Dumb John 🇺🇸 Showcase
ft. The Improv Centre 🇨🇦
– 7:00pm
Second Breakfast 🇳🇿 &
Teresa & Folusho 🇬🇧
– 9:00pm
Fri, Jan. 30
Second Breakfast 🇳🇿 Showcase
ft. Michelle Impro 🇬🇧
– 7:00pm
Dumb John 🇺🇸
& The Improv Centre 🇨🇦
– 9:00pm
Teresa & Folusho 🇬🇧
& The Improv Centre 🇨🇦
– 10:45pm Late Show
Sat, Jan. 31
Michelle Impro 🇬🇧 Showcase
ft. The Improv Centre 🇨🇦
– 7:00pm
Second Breakfast 🇳🇿
& The Improv Centre 🇨🇦
– 9:00pm
Each show takes place at our theatre located on Granville Island in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
