RISE Comedy

RISE Comedy describes itself as an improv theater, comedy bar, and training space in downtown Denver. Its story began as the Voodoo Comedy Playhouse, opened by Stephen Wilder in 2011; the company adopted the RISE Comedy name in 2020. The official site traces its work in the city back to 2008, before the first venue opened, linking performances, teaching, and a local stage community over time.

The calendar brings together formats that change from night to night: unscripted improv, musical comedy, sketch, stand-up, karaoke, and special performances. Hit and Run: Musical Improv, which the theater describes as a long-running Denver company, creates songs and scenes in the moment from audience suggestions. Each show is different by design, so the calendar is the best place to choose a performance and check ticket details.

A full-service bar rounds out the visit, with draft beer, spirits, and local cocktails; the venue says it has no drink minimum. RISE combines a comedy night with a place to stay before or after a show. Its schedule may include visiting performers, festivals, open mics, and other formats, so the lineup depends on the date.

People who would rather take the stage can enroll in classes in improv, stand-up, sketch, acting, musical improv, and clown. The training center offers introductory and successive levels, along with drop-in sessions, intensives, and online activities. Its own curriculum began during the Voodoo era; the organization presents classes both as training for performers and as an accessible practice for people who have never performed.

The venue also works with companies, schools, and private groups. Corporate improv workshops are designed for team sessions and training, with in-person and virtual formats. The program includes private-event rentals and the option to pitch a show. This work carries the stage’s collaborative approach into communication and team-building activities; groups arrange the format directly with the staff rather than attending a public performance.

The theater is at 1330 ½ 14th Street, Denver, Colorado 80202, the address currently listed on RISE’s official website. Older business records show a different street, so visitors should use this current address for directions. Shows and classes are scheduled on a calendar rather than by fixed daily hours; tickets, event policies, and accessibility details are provided on the website before a visit.

RISE Comedy is a useful Denver guide for anyone looking for a night of comedy, but also for people who want to learn the craft or bring a creative activity to their team. Its identity combines a changing theater lineup, a bar, and a school: visitors can come as an audience member, student, or private group. Checking the calendar before heading out helps distinguish an improv performance from a stand-up show or a participatory class.