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Secret Improv Society
Categories: Nightlife Comedy Clubs Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Comedy Clubs, Performing Arts [Edit]
Shelton Theater533 Sutter St
San Francisco, CA 94102
Neighborhood: Union Square
- Hours:
Sat 9:30 pm - 11:30 pm
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
Passionate playwrights, provocative plays, professional actors, only 230 seats. That's how we do theater. | ON STAGE NOW: West Coast premiere of Keith… read more »
69 reviews for Secret Improv Society
Review Highlights
"Oh, & the free Oreos were a nice touch."
(in 8 reviews)
"All in all, fantastic way to spend a Saturday night."
(in 3 reviews)
"...up scenes that amuse, amaze, and make you laugh out loud."
(in 2 reviews)
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69 reviews in English
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Review from Matt M.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 2/2/2012
Went to the 1/28 show. It was sold out but we had bought tix in advance. We were early but they serve beer so it was fine to hang out in the bar/lounge having a few before the show. The show was great--just random, spontaneous fun, but also a couple moments of drama to mix it up.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/12/2008 First to Review
It's just fun! Not every scene was full of laughs, but the group was willing to try crazy stuff and… Read more »
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Review from Heather C.
San Francisco, CA
1/22/2012
One of my all time favorite activities to do in NYC is go to UCB. for $5-10 you can get a show that never disappoints. So, when I saw a Groupon for Secret Improv Society, I was stoked.
The theatre is super cute and clean and overall professional. The performers were present before the show and were extremely enthusiastic. Unfortunately, the positives sort of end there. They provide services in a company setting (from what I read in the brochure) that help with bonding and dynamics and I think they would be great at that. As for a professional stage presence, they ask too much of the audience. For each scene, which doesn't last for more than 2 minutes which is NOT enough time to play out any scenario, they ask the audience for a word, sounds or props. I like a little help from the audience at the beginning and then I want them to turn down the lights and make me laugh.
I wouldn't say I'd never go back, but I probably won't. I wish they would practice more, allow more time for their scenes play out and I think they would benefit greatly from visiting NYC and watching one or two UCB shows. -
Review from JoAnn D.
San Francisco, CA
1/1/2012
My boyfriend and I went New Year's Eve. The Secret Improv Society is the greatest comedic treasure in SF! These guys are talented actors and comedians. The audience was engaged an cracking up laughing. It was one of the best dates I've ever had and certainly the best New Years Eve celebration!
Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 1/2/2012
Thank you, JoAnn for such a glowing endorsement! Happy New… More » -
Review from Margaret C.
Menlo Park, CA
5/11/2011
Alright, maybe I'm an improv snob. I've seen improv at places like Second City in Chicago. I've seen improv at places where they practice and put on shows almost every day. Practice improves improv, a lot!
Secret Improv Society is more like an improv club. I can tell that these guys don't get a ton of practice, and they get by on a few members who are naturally wacky or quick thinking. They were funny, but I wasn't peeing myself or anything. I think the whole "Meh. I've experienced better." sums up my feelings pretty well.
I won't be back. They shouldn't charge more than $5 for non-professional improv.Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 5/11/2011
Margaret, thanks for your feedback. Sorry to hear you won't… More » -
Review from Bridget O.
Pacifica, CA
5/11/2011
I was very impressed with this quick-witted troupe and would definitely go back! Mary Ray especially was a stand-out with her hilarious impressions, lightning fast responses, and just her overall brilliance.
They drew a lot from the audience and would take a random word or topic and riff off of it, leaving people in hysterics. The young keyboardist is also brilliantly talented and equally quick, jumping into the skit with just the right tone to help set the mood. The skits moved very quickly which kept things fresh and exciting. It seems like a great place to go with a date or to just go with a group of friends for a fun, light night out. I'm sure you'd never see the same thing twice.
I can't wait to see them again!!Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 5/11/2011
Bridget, thanks for the enthusiasm and kind words! Can't… More » -
Review from Nick S.
San Francisco, CA
3/27/2011
Came here with a Groupon, but would definitely come back paying full price.
We had a really great time at this show last night. Really creative, really funny, and very interactive. The cast is really spectacular. It's amazing how quick-thinking they are, especially since most of their skits came directly from words/topics shouted from the audience. The keyboardist was equally great, since he cued different emotions from the actors according to which tunes he played.
Unlike other black box theatres, this one was well ventilated and rather comfortable. It didn't get too hot and aisles were spacious. The theatre itself is not very big, so come here early to get good seats. There are also refreshments for sale, including Becks, and you are allowed to take these along with you into the theatre.
There was some adult content and some profanity at the show I attended, so I wouldn't suggest taking children. However, most of the adult content was prompted by the audience, so another show may not contain any adult content (or could have a lot more!).
I highly recommend this show. For dates, for fun, for fun dates, or just for something different.Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 3/27/2011
Thanks, Nick for the 5-star Yelp! More » -
Review from Christopher L.
Hayward, CA
1/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
It was my friends birthday last night and this was one of the few places she wanted to check out. I wasn't really expecting much when I walked in and you really don't get much as far as decor and aesthetics go, but boy does the show make up for it. You really do laugh like a hyena. The room is quaint and small. They serve alcohol upstairs right before the show. You really don't need the alcohol to enjoy the show.
The cast is talented and funny. Something to look forward to again!! Will definitely recommend to friends.Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 1/30/2011
Thanks for the great Yelp. Hope to see you back at future… More » -
Review from Tamara S.
Phoenix, AZ
11/28/2010
Secret Improv Society gives a great show for a small crowd. The theatre is very intimate, the players have good chemistry, and the show last night was silly and clever.
I was impressed that the cast didn't always go for the easy or obvious jokes, but were inventive and goofy. They nurture a friendly relationship with the audience and seem to really enjoy what they do, which is a pleasure to watch. Not too much vulgarity which was nice since I went with my dad and there's nothing worse than having to hear alot of sex jokes when you're sitting next to your parents. I've been to other improv troupes and left a little embarrassed, but I'll be checking out Secret Improv Society again the next time I'm back in town.
You won't have too much luck finding street parking but the sutter and stockton garage is only a couple of blocks away from the theatre. There are no bad seats i the tiny theatre, but the audience was almost completely full so I might recommend buying tickets before hand or getting there at 9:15 if you're buying at the door.
This has to be the most laughs you can get for $15.Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 11/28/2010
Many thanks, Tamara! Glad you spent one of your nights in SF… More » -
Review from sarah s.
San Francisco, CA
1/23/2011
Got tickets for here a while ago through a living social deal, and finally got to use them tonight when a friend was visiting.
The show was very funny and the audience were great, which I'm sure helped the comedians a lot.
This is the third time Ive been to an Improv evening, the other two being in Florida, and this was by far the best.
I just wish it had been longer as I didn't want to leave. I will definitely be coming back with some other friends.
The grandpa and the threesome with the Italians was so funny, and i was singing 'waiting for a train' all the way home!!Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 1/23/2011
Thank you Sarah for the 5-star Yelp! Hope to see you and… More » -
Review from Vanessa W.
Hayward, CA
8/22/2011
I really don't think these guys get enough credit, this show was hilarious, I laughed extremely hard. The best part of the show is when they act out comments from the guest. When you are waiting in the lobby area to go in and they ask you to jot down random stuff that they will talk about in the show, DO IT, the more personal it is to you the better.
Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 12/4/2011
Thank you for your review, Vanessa! Hope to see you back.… More » -
Review from Krista S.
2/9/2011
Came with the bf a few weeks ago. The cast of Secret Improv Society was entertaining, and for the price I payed (via a BuywithMe deal) made it worth it for sure - 4 stars based on the price I payed. Not sure I'd want to pay the full $15 per person entrance fee, however, hence the 3 stars. But in any case, it was a nice way to start a Saturday night.
The cast was a wide array of characters, each with their own colorful additions to the show. The audience at my particular show was decent, though I think we could have collectively been a little more creative which would have made for a better show. The experience really depends on how into it the audience gets. My particular fave of the night was the 18 year old piano player who had just gotten his drivers license... good for you, kid.
Loved that the beers were cheap ($4 for a stella) and there were free oreos. Nice touch.
I'll be back, because I happened to get excited during the show and ended up volunteering to be the arms of one of the characters in a skit, and therefore won free entrance for 2 to another show. Cool. -
Review from Lynn M.
San Francisco, CA
9/19/2010
Loved it! From the announcer, to the talented cast, to the sound guy - they've got something special with this show.
It takes a solid comedian to make me laugh out loud and I was cracking up the entire night. (Corbett's impression of Lady Gaga was killer!!)
Joey, the sound man, was spot on - he will definitely have a great musical career.
I left the show saying 'I have to come back next week!Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 9/19/2010
Thank you, Lynn! Glad to hear you'll be coming to future… More » -
Review from Betty and Mike C.
San Francisco, CA
3/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
Check in on yelp and get a BOGO offer!
Much funnier than I thought. Mary, Jason, and the curly haired guy with the facial hair (i'm sorry I forgot his name) were really funny. I've been to a lot of improv and this one was much funnier than some of the other ones I have been to.
I really like supporting local theatre and comedy! You should go see them =)Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 3/2/2011
Thanks, Betty & Mike C.! Hope you come back to more… More » -
Review from Bill W.
9/13/2010
Came here after seeing it in the Weekly Yelp. I decided to get here around 9:15 to make sure I got a ticket, and the place was PACKED. I ended up being #18 on the waiting list, but luckily we just made the cut and they let us in.
We walk down to theater and there aren't any seats left. But not to worry, Chet comes over with two seats and sets us right next to Joey (the keyboardist). So not only do we get sweet seats, he hooks us up with a free pass to another show since we have to sit a bit on the side.
How was the show? Very funny. With a packed house, the crowd was really into it and the cast did great playing off it. I will be going back for sure.Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 9/13/2010
Very glad it worked out. Future reference, you can pre-order… More » -
Review from Amy S.
Columbus, OH
7/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
I was pleasantly surprised by this show. First of all, we got a Yelp discount, which was amazing since we're out of towners. And the Improv was a lot of fun and not uncomfortable (which is how I like it). There was only one weird moment toward the end where one of the actors couldn't come up with something to say. But I supposed that happens, right?!
Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 7/25/2011
So glad you liked it! Many thanks for the 4-stars. Hope you… More » -
Review from Diana A.
Berkeley, CA
7/11/2010
What a great time! I've been to other improv shows in L.A. and Santa Cruz, but San Francisco's Secret Improv Society is my favorite by far. I usually take out-of-town visitors to Comedy College for a taste of city nightlife, but the Secret Improv Society has officially assumed the role.
Very friendly, charismatic cast. My boyfriend and I are big fans of live performances but are horrendously deer-in-headlights when it comes to audience participation. We die of embarrassment when, say, comics pick on us during their acts.
Last night, though, one of the improv hosts singled us out, and I loved it. That's a lot coming from me. The space was very intimate, and the cast seemed so friendly, good natured, and accessible. They reenacted the scene when my boyfriend and I first met--hilarious and very sweet. Lovely way to make for a memorable date night. :)
These improv actors, the pianist, and the lights guy were all incredibly entertaining, funny, and seemed to be having a great time.
Well done, Secret Improv Society! See you again soon!Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 7/11/2010
Diana, thanks so much for the generous compliment! More » -
Review from Susie O.
San Jose, CA
10/11/2010
Clever!
The success of this show depends on the level of audience participation and I was thrilled that my fellow audience members were eager and responsive last sat night. Remember: The more random and awkward your suggestions..the better the sketch!
The only negative was how ridiculously stuffy and hot it got in that basement. My friends and I could barely stand it! They really need to add a few more fans.
Anyways, the cast is insanley clever and enaging. Just their facial expressions alone made me laugh. Every show is unique and special and will create lasting memories.
For me and my friends, singing, "He has.. 4 legs.....my pony.." will immediately bring us back to our night here. lol.
I can't wait to come back and bring a newbie!Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 10/12/2010
Thanks Susie for the great review! Looking forward to seeing… More » -
Review from Jennifer C.
Redwood City, CA
4/5/2010
Fun, fun, fun!!! As long as you are an active audience member, you will have a great time. I was quite impressed with how quick they were on their feet and their wide variety of knowledge. Why am I impressed? Well, for starters, my group threw out some obscure sayings, random crap, and just plain weird stuff. Each time we threw something out there, the Improv group was able to run with it and we had a grand ol time.
I looked around to make sure that we were not the only ones having a good laugh. Sure enough, the entire audience was enjoying it.
My group happened to be there on the 2 year anniversary show so they did extras like prizes.
Best $15 I've spent in a long time.Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 4/5/2010
Many thanks for your stellar review! We appreciate your… More » -
Review from Vivian C.
12/20/2009
A fun way to spend a Saturday night. This place is tucked away in the Theater District, in a little building that houses other theater acts, a great find!
Aite, here we goes:
+ Their shows are $15, but mention Yelp and you pay $10. Deal!
+ Free Oreos. Yum!
+ Intimate space. Cozy!
+ Fun, friendly audience. Great!
+ Talented improv actors. Thumbs up!
This was really fun, fills you up with big happy laughing. The actors really engaged the audience, incorporated audience suggestions well, and every actor added a unique flavor to the whole troupe. And what I also liked about the troupe was that, even though they're all professional improv actors who do this all the time, there were moments where they seemed just like you and me - put on the spot and not really sure what to do, but you pull something outta your ass and have a good laugh at yourself anyway.
I like it. That's real.
So, good work, y'all. I'd come back again.
Oh, and tip: if you're brave and volunteer for part of a scene, you get two free tix!Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 2/1/2010
Thanks much for your review. Looking forward to seeing you… More » -
Review from kat g.
Palo Alto, CA
10/26/2008
This is a great little gem that is definitely a secret in San Francisco!
It's a hilarious show that definitely feeds off the energy of the crowd. Since it's improv, of course no two shows are going to be alike so you could go back again and again and it'll always be funny!
I laughed so hard seeing this show last night and couldn't wait to recommend it to everyone. I'd say it's the perfect date destination since you can wander around Union Square, have dinner and then head to the show.
I don't find the price to be high at all and it's well worth every penny. -
Review from Amy L.
1/31/2010
These actors were really trying, and I think they were having fun up there. That's good. I'm glad they enjoyed themselves, that's important.
However, I was bored.
I generally love live theatre, comedy, and have enjoyed other improv groups in the past. But the Secret Improv Society one just didn't do it for me. I walked out of there feeling like I wished I had my time back. I'd say that I wish I hadn't paid for it, but honestly, my partner got out tickets through Goldstar where we wound up paying $5.50/each, which basically was the Goldstar fee, nothing going to the actors. Part of me feels a little bad about that, but then the rest of me is secretly happy I didn't spend more, because I really didn't enjoy it.
I'm sure that enjoyment of this show varies from person to person based on their experiences and what they find funny. For me, this felt trite, awkward and forced. The bits were typical (a little bit of sexual suggestion here, an eensy bit of religious humor there), some of the actors seemed to have a hard time thinking on their feet, and the singing...well, it was awful. It would've been one thing if the songs they made up were funny, but they were cheesy at best and poorly sung.
And the audience suggestions were surprisingly unimaginative, too. That's not the actors' faults, but they could've done a better job of picking from the suggestions offered to maybe try and amp up the comedy potential on stage. How many times do you have to pick the word "apple", really?!!!
If you're looking for an experience like "Who's Line Is It Anyway", this really won't satisfy your urge. This really felt like a deflated version of improv, or neutered, or something. But if you've had a couple of drinks with some friends and are feeling warm and toasty, this show might have more laughs for you, especially if you get into the audience-participation aspect of the show.
HIGH POINTS: Very polite and friendly staff/actors!! Adorable little theatre space!!! Free oreos and $1 bottles of water!!!
UPDATE 2/9/10: I originally posted that this theatre isn't wheel-chair accessible, based on my visual assessment of the space. However, the owner has since contact me to let me know: "the Shelton Theatre is wheel-chair accessible. There is special elevator we escort audience to who need it." I still don't know the deal with the bathroom with regards to wheelchairs, but I recommend contacting this biz directly with questions about that.
Usually when I give a biz 2 stars on Yelp, it means I'd never go back and would never recommend it to anyone else, either. In this case, I'd offer an exception to that: while I won't be back, I'm not sorry I tried out going to Secret Improv Society, and would suggest that others try it out for themselves. What makes each person laugh is highly subjective, so who knows, maybe you'll find the Secret Improv Society more engaging than I did.
To the actors: keep working at it, enjoy what you do, and don't be afraid to take on the more outlandish suggestions from the audience! -
Review from Ian s.
Newberry, FL
6/17/2008
I have been performing improv for many, many years and I have seen many, many shows during that time. This show is one of the finest I have seen and by FAR the best in the Bay Area. I have seen BATS, Comedy Sports, Running on Improv, and SIMPS, and these guys put on the best shows consistently. Their concept of having a new guest host is great! It changes the dynamics of the show each week. And their free form format is wonderful and inspiring to anyone who has done any improvisation in their life.
They perform every Saturday (and only Saturday) at 10 PM in the Shelton Theater. See you there. -
Review from Oleg H.
Updated - 3/5/2010
I really really really wanted to give SIS 5 stars. That is - give them stars after they comped me tickets for a missed show. Missed due to being late, finding the door locked, and no way to get in.
As expected the improv was solid.
On this night the crowd was pretty sparse, which is a plus. A few suggestions kept steering the show into the gutter, which is ok (as long as its funny, which it was). Sex and bm jokes can be a bit cliche and kind of an easy way out in my opinion, but SIS pulled it off. Everyone was good, there was little blocking or denying, to an expectedly funny result. I really liked the performance part.
Why the docked star then?
The same thing that happened the first time, kinda happened again.
Even though i made double sure to not be late (and wasnt), i cant make sure someone im with doesnt need to use the restroom. And when Renee was gone for more than 15 mins, i figured, as before, she was locked out (because the restroom is beyond a door that locks). Which is exactly what happened.
I can totally understand the balance that performing troupe is trying to strike, by running a show, and paying for the venue, hence needing to charge for tickets, vs. being performers for whom business is an afterthought, but i'm also, unfortunately, a paying customer, and as such kind of expect those im with to not be locked out when they need to leave the venue temporarily for any reason.
There's definitely space for SIS on the SF entertainment landscape, but handling the logistics - could stand some improvement.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/16/2009
"ehh - i know we're kinda late but how do we get in?"
good improv.
no customer service.
and they can… Read more »
Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 3/6/2010
Thanks for coming back and seeing us again, Oleg. Your… More » -
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Review from Pam M.
San Francisco, CA
10/27/2008
I've seen a bunch of SIS's shows in the past few months, and I'm consistently delighted. The players connect with the audience, develop unique and interesting scenes, and are simply magical to watch. The special guests keep things fresh, and all the shows I've seen have been infused with so much positive energy that you can't help but get sucked in and leave in a happier, laughier, brighter mood. And, if Kevin is there providing his musical talent, you're in for a special treat.
All in all, fantastic way to spend a Saturday night. Cute space, cute cast, free oreos, and a truly great show. What more could you want? -
Review from Ngozi E.
Oakland, CA
9/5/2010
Very cute. I enjoyed the clean theater, great tippr deal (incl. free beer!), and the funny cast. The show was originative and fun. Some of the "games" were a little dry but hey, it happens. My advice to the audience is to stay engaged and volunteer (you'll win a free show!).
The cast is cutesy, and creative. Also, they know how to be funny without being overly vulgar-- a lost art in this day and age;)
P.s. I think they've resolved the whole 'locking people out who go to bathroom' problem-- but ask before you go, just to make sure!Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 9/5/2010
Thank you, Ngozi. Hope to see you again. More » -
Review from Ina V.
Brooklyn, NY
3/31/2009
I was visiting from NYC when I decided to go and see how they do improv in SF. I've seen sketch comedy at UCB (Upright Citizen's Brigade--where many SNL folks came from). I've also viewed a ton of improv at Sketch Fest in NYC at UCB and found some of the sketches to be hit or miss depending on the group showing at UCB.
Secret Improv Society is definitely a HIT and they should come out to do UCB on the east coast and show them how it is in SF! I hope to see you at Sketch Fest in NYC next year!!! Keep us laughing!!
Love the accents you guys and gals had...and the personalities you created on the spot. One of my favs was the Italian stallion brothers bait and switch with the girl. And the Physics class with the smart alleck slacker Stephan Hawkings as one of the students. The keyboardist did a great job with timing and mood as well!! Oh yeah, and the homage to Earth Hour with a Star Trek episode in the dark was hilarious--even in the dark! Ha!
Bravo!! SIS, you made my trip! -
Review from N. L.
Lincoln, NE
3/22/2009
I went for the first time last night. I was definitely skeptical, since I've seen some pretty bad improv in the past, but this troupe waaaay exceeded my expectations and I'll absolutely go again.
***FYI, in response to the last review & others -- the performers in improv are NOT the same as comedians. Improv is about on-the-spot invention, coming up with group skits and songs on the fly that are often very funny, but not stand-up comedy. The talent is in the spontaneity and creativity. (Yes, like "Whose Line is it Anyway". That's what improv is.)***
This group is BRILLIANTLY quick-witted. I ended up laughing so hard -- literally -- that my stomach hurt. And they were great at playing off the audience. It was a full house (maybe 60 or 70 people?), and everyone seemed to have a fantastic time. No one left early and there was a lot of audience involvement. Highly recommended, tho definitely not for kids (adult humor abounds). Great for a date. There's a pub just up the street and it's right near the Powell St BART station. -
Review from Renee N.
Alameda, CA
2/22/2010
The last time I went to see improv I was in high school, and it cost $3, and took place in a laundry mat that served coffee and beer. It was a truly awful long form musical about a farm, and it left such a bad impression that I haven't gone to see an improv show since.
Oleg has a thing for improv. He has such a thing for it that I'm kind of surprised it's taken this long for us to go to a show together, and that the relevant catalyst for doing so was the offer of free passes.
Why free passes? See Oleg's December review of his experience with the of customer service at this venue (and stay tuned for an update that will include how they attempted to make amends by offering comped tickets).
Considering Oleg's previous experience with the place, we headed out *early* to make sure we arrived way in advance of the show. We got there early enough to stop into a bar and get a pre-show drink, then have a beer in the theater's antechamber before the start of the show.
Everything was going fine up to and including the beginning of the show. The improv was (according to Oleg) solid, and I laughed enough to conclude it was funny (secretly relieved there was no mention of a farm). But I happen to have the smallest bladder ever, and after 2 drinks and about 45 minutes of sitting, I needed to pee.
If you've read Oleg's first review (and really, you should've) you'd know that I knew about the possibility of a locked door upstairs. In spite of this, I tapped Oleg on the shoulder and said, "I have to go to the bathroom." I take it as a compliment that he felt no need to remind me to beware the door, especially since I know that was the first thing that occurred to him when I got up to leave.
The restroom for the venue happens to be just beyond the entryway--meaning you have to go out the pesky, potentially locked doors to get there. Not wanting to be stuck in the hallway, I made sure to check that the door was open. It was. In fact, it was unlocked AND ajar. "Alright," I thought, "looks like they fixed this problem."
I tried the restroom door and, lo and behold, it was locked. "Bummer," I thought, "Guess I have to wait." A few moments later a robust dude came out, smiled at me, and held the door so I could go in. I did, used the facility, and emerged to find that...robust dude had shut, and LOCKED, the entryway door.
"Are you fucking kidding me?" I thought.
I'd been so careful! I'd known the potential pitfall! I'd checked the door to make sure it was unlocked! I hadn't imagined I'd need to combat the influence of a random other person.
Luckily for me, Oleg was downstairs, and I immediately started willing him to come up and rescue me (as I knew he would). I anticipated being stuck out in the hallway for at least 15 minutes, knowing Oleg would want to give me the benefit of the doubt and try NOT to assume I'd gotten myself locked out given all the information we both knew I had, but he was up in 10.
He was more annoyed than I was. "That's fucking bullshit," he said. "Yeah," I said, "I know."
We commenced to discuss the robust guy, who was sitting on a couch at the outskirts of the theater and is apparently part of the company (Oleg says he's pretty awesome at improv, too).
Considering this, my question for SIS is as follows: if this company doesn't have the budget to hire someone to stay upstairs and man the front desk through the duration of the show, but DOES have a non-participating member of their group who could theoretically fill that clearly necessary role of usher/ticket taker/door keeper opener, why don't they?!?
Easier than that, why don't they just hang a key near the entryway to allow people the option of going to the bathroom without being subjected to this bizarre brand of chilly hallway purgatory? Would they rather I just pee in my seat?
Choosing the appropriate number of stars to give in this instance is difficult.
The tickets were free, and even if they hadn't been everything was fairly priced. The actors tried really hard (in a good way) and the theater was cute and cozy.
However, as I pointed out to Oleg later on, while the organizers DID try to make amends after getting a one-star Yelp review, they ONLY tried to make amends after getting a one-star Yelp review--which wasn't Oleg's only course of action. He called, he emailed, and wrote a negative review on Goldstar, all of which went unacknowledged.
"I don't think they care about customer service," I told him. "They care about Yelp reviews."
So one star for free tickets, one star for good actors. Minus three stars for the rest. Sorry, guys--get that door sitch handled, and you'd be a solid four.
As Oleg said, "It's called 'show BUINESS' for a reason." -
Review from jason xavier c.
San Francisco, CA
6/23/2011
if you like smart and witty improv from SF, secret improv society is the show to see! i have witnessed many shows and every show is guaranteed to be different and hilarious. if you're visiting from out of town or just want to do something different with some friends, then i would highly recommend going to a show, oh and you get free oreo's....so good
Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 7/24/2011
Thanks for the glowing review, Jason. So glad you've made it… More » -
Review from kevin a.
San Francisco, CA
10/27/2008
This was a great find after spending a day hanging out downtown. The show was hilarious, way different and much better than a typical stand-up comedy show. This group kept it moving, doing a a bunch of different skits taken from audience ideas. It never got old and the show flew by. About three-quarters of the skits were super funny, which is a great batting average. And the piano player providing the live soundtrack was great too.
The theater itself is a pretty cool little place. You can buy beers in the lobby and bring them into the show. Perfect thing to do after getting some dinner and we still had time afterwards to go out downtown. -
Review from Leslie I.
San Francisco, CA
12/4/2008
What a fantastic suprise and a fun experience. I have never gone to a live improv comedy night and I was super impressed with what this fun cast of characters was able to pull out of a hat.
i think they work well together but I have to say that I was really impressed with Jill who is friends with the people whom I went to this show with.
She is completely charismatic and fun and whimsical (really just like everyone). Jill is destined for stardom for sure.
I want to go again because they told me this was a B- night with an A+ crowd (hence the 4 stars). I wanna see an A+ night for sure.
Yay! for improv! You guys are Brave and fun! -
Review from Lisa B.
Belmont, CA
10/4/2009
I saw the Secret Improv Society the other night for my friend's birthday and I thought it was GREAT! We found them on yelp because we were looking for something more low-key than our usual get-wasted-and-go-dancing birthday celebrations.
It was perfect! The actors were very talented and I loved they ways they incorporated the audience. They even did a great reenactment of how my friend met her boyfriend and unbeknownst to the actors, it was damn spot-on. HA! They also sang an amazing song about "sharts" (you know... a fart with a little something extra). LURVES IT! I will definitely return! -
Review from Kenso K.
San Francisco, CA
12/27/2009
Cheap and fun...We stumbled on this place and decided to give it a shot. Only $10 when you mention Yelp!
It's a cool venue and the actors really encourage audience participation. My advice: get a group, go to dinner, get a few drinks, get there early (doors lock at 10), pound a $4 Pacifico, eat some free oreos, and enjoy the show.Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 1/4/2010
Thanks for the Yelp, Kenso! Hope to see you (and friends)… More » -
Review from Eric F.
Berkeley, CA
2/21/2010
Considering the price ($10 for mentioning Yelp), I'm pretty satisfied. I sat front row in an intimate, 50-seat theater. The small size means your suggestions are more likely to be used, so come ready to spout the first thing off the top of your head.
The comedy itself was a little hit-or-miss. Some bits dragged, making you think 'how can this possibly end, and why don't they just cut it off now?' And some were cut just as they got good. It's clear that the actors have fun with it, and it's also good they're getting the practice in.
Props to the pianist, who kept it going through the whole hour and change, especially with all the musically-themed genre changes (horror, opera) common to most improv sets.
3.5 stars -
Review from Kat M.
Portland, OR
1/4/2009
Just hit a SIS show for the first time and really loved it!
I'd say this is the perfect thing to fit into a night on the town. You can hit Foley's pub for dinner, the Westin hotel for drinks (get the Scottish Mule yo!), then SIS for lots of laughs, and on to your favorite club afterwords.
What I loved....this is definitely a chill locals show and it works perfect in this theater space where you're right up close to the stage. I thought they did a great job of getting the audience participating and feeling like you were in 'it'.
I was told they have a new piano player/musician and he was the bomb! Totally dead on music with mad piano skillz.
Get a deal on tickets via http://Goldstar.com. -
Review from Brie K.
Bear, DE
7/26/2009
This troupe was fun and engaging, and did pretty well with the whacked out suggestions that we threw at them! Joel (I think that was his name, he was the guy that looks like Jerry Seinfeld with hippie hair) was particularly hilarious. Serious props for introducing the giant white suit!
Four stars because I have seen other improv shows that I have enjoyed more, and there were some uncomfortable moments when the scene just didn't take off, but it was a great way to spend a Saturday night!
Go check them out! THIS Saturday!!
Small annoyance - no one checked our ticket. We totally could have wandered in and save the $10, but we're glad to support them. -
Review from Marissa P.
Kansas City, MO
12/18/2009
There are two things you can always count on San Francisco for - great food & lots of entertainment options. The Secret Improv Society is one of those good options. It's affordable and just a fun evening out. Improv is never an easy task as you are constantly having to come up with new material and instantly adapt to your audience. However, as for a Improv Troupe's go, these comedians do a really good job! My recommendation - get involved provide suggestion and volunteer if asked. Improve is only as fun as you make it!
PS - Don't arrive late, the cast is also your door attendants so it's unlikely someone will be available to let you in.Listed in: SF on a Budget
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Review from Monks G.
Santa Clara, CA
1/24/2011
This was my first experience at a improv show and I must admit that i fell in love. If you have friends visiting from out side city, this is better than showing them the golden gate bridge ! The place is nice and intimate, (sits 60-70). All the actors and the host were polite and gracious. and the improvisation was hilarious most of the times. One tip, just go a little early to get the best seats in the house.
Comment from Andrew M. of Secret Improv Society 1/25/2011
Thanks for the review, Monks! [we actually seat just over… More » -
Review from Michelle C.
San Francisco, CA
12/6/2008
The thing about improv is that you never know what you're gonna get. (I know, I know... that's kind of the point.) But -- with the wrong group -- that can make for a loooong, miserable night. Never the case with the Secret Improv Society -- sure, it's different every time. But it's always good.
These peeps work really well together and they know how to work the crowd. Their skits are consistently entertaining -- smart, funny, irreverant... sometimes a little ridiculous (but that's kind of the point, right?). -
Review from Laura G.
6/2/2009
Best skit of the night:
One of the actors asked the audience if anyone was in a relationship. Two audience members in their twenties raised their hands and said they met online and first saw each other at a Mexican restaurant.
Oh this is going to be good.
The actors did a slow motion, cross gendered re-enactment of their meeting. So hilarious.
Kudos for not being too dirty since I went with my family.
