Monkey Barrel Comedy has announced a new partnership with the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) that will bring UCB improv classes to the UK. The partnership will see UCB’s internationally recognised training programme taught in Edinburgh - marking the first time UCB classes have ever been offered outside of the United States.
The arrival of UCB classes in Edinburgh will give performers of all levels access to world-class training through one of the most recognised comedy institutions in the US. UCB teaches thousands of students each year at dedicated training centres in New York, Los Angeles, Austin, and Pittsburgh. Its curriculum has helped shape the careers of performers like Jason Mantzoukas (Taskmaster), Kate McKinnon (Saturday Night Live) and Aubrey Plaza (Parks & Rec).
The partnership will see experienced UCB teachers travel to Scotland to lead classes and workshops in Edinburgh, while collaborating with Monkey Barrel Comedy to develop an exciting programme of live improv shows. By expanding access to improv training and performance opportunities, the collaboration aims to strengthen the growing UK improv scene and encourage a broader range of performers and perspectives on stage.
While Monkey Barrel Comedy has hosted improv events since its founding, the partnership with UCB represents a step forward in the scale and consistency of improv training available in Edinburgh, following the venue’s recent announcement as the long-term home of the Edinburgh International Improv Festival (EIIF).
Mike McAvoy, CEO of UCB, said: “We couldn’t be more excited to partner with Monkey Barrel and join the UK’s growing improv scene. Bringing UCB classes to Edinburgh will be our first time offering training outside the United States, and we couldn’t imagine a better home or a better partner for this expansion. Together, we’ll support performers at every level and build a stronger pipeline of improv talent and shows."
“Partnering with UCB and bringing their classes to Monkey Barrel is something we’re incredibly excited about,” said a spokesperson for Monkey Barrel Comedy. “They’ve created a world-leading improv programme, and collaborating with their fantastic team on classes and shows gives us a chance to support performers of all levels and contribute to a stronger, more visible UK improv scene.”
The first classes begin in March. Bookings and more details from February 13 via the UCB website.
