The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre (UCB) in Los Angeles is a cornerstone of the city’s thriving comedy culture. UCB, founded in 2005 by Amy Poehler, Matt Besser, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh, has a reputation for developing innovative comedic talent and producing high-quality shows.  

A Legacy of Laughter

UCB’s Los Angeles presence began with its Franklin Avenue facility, which hosted nightly shows featuring improv, sketch, and stand-up comedy. In 2014, the group expanded with the launch of UCB Theatre Sunset, which included an 85-seat theater, a training center, and the Inner Sanctum café/performance space. However, in December 2020, UCB Sunset was sold, bringing operations back to the Franklin location.

UCB had a dramatic transformation in March 2022 when it was acquired by Mike McAvoy, former CEO of The Onion, and Jimmy Miller, co-founder of Mosaic talent management, with funding from venture capital firm Elysian Park. This acquisition resulted in the reopening of the Franklin theater and the Los Angeles training campuses in September 2022, renewing UCB’s commitment to comedy education.

Main Attractions at UCB Los Angeles

Nightly Comedy Shows

UCB hosts a variety of shows seven nights a week, including improv, sketch, stand-up, and experimental comedy. Notable plays include “ASSSSCAT,” a long-form improv performance with experienced comedians, and “Best Friend: The Musical!,” a musical comedy about the lives of a side character vying for the spotlight.

Spanish Aquí Presents

Spanish Aquí Presents (SAP), UCB LA’s only all-Latino mainstage improv troupe, offers bilingual performances celebrating Latino culture. SAP was founded in 2018, and its concerts frequently feature live DJs and cultural components, providing a one-of-a-kind and inclusive comedy experience.  

Training and Workshops

UCB is well-known for its comprehensive comedy training programs, which include lessons in improv, sketch writing, acting, and more. These programs have helped begin the careers of many comedians and actors by emphasizing themes such as cooperation, building, and group dynamics.  

Community Engagement

Beyond performances and lessons, UCB promotes a lively community through open mic nights, student showcases, and diversity scholarships. These programs seek to make comedy more accessible and to develop talent from diverse backgrounds.

Visiting UCB Los Angeles

Address: 5919 Franklin Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Website: ucbcomedy.com

Seating Capacity: Approximately 92 seats

Showtimes: Nightly performances; check the website for the latest schedule and ticket information. 

Whether you’re a comedy fan or a beginner looking for a night of laughing, the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre has a variety of performances that showcase the best of Los Angeles’ comic talent. Its long history, dedication to education, and diverse programming make it an essential stop for anybody interested in the art of comedy.