News

Woman in black blazer and green top with large green hoop earrings smiles against an orange wall.

Meet Sheila Robertson, MBI’s New Owner

Brad Knight is passing the torch at Monkey Business Institute to Sheila Robertson. A familiar face and longtime contributor, Sheila brings over 35 years of improv experience and a passion for community, aiming to expand MBI's reach and joy.

Vote for us! Madison Magazine's Best of Madison 2026, June 1-30.

Vote for MBI for Best Comedy Group AND Best Performing Arts Group

Best of Madison voting is open! MBI is nominated for Best Comedy Group and Best Performing Arts Group. If our performances have brought you laughs, laughter, or any form of mirth, please cast your vote. We're back and quirkier than ever, aiming to make Madison laugh.

Improv at the Glass Nickel in Madison

Improv Shows Madison, Wisconsin

Seeing one of our improv shows at The Glass Nickel Co. on Atwood? Here's a list of helpful tips we've put together so you can get MAXIMUM ENJOYMENT from your comedy experience.

Question marks

2025 Auditions

Monkey Business Institute is seeking talented individuals for its 2025 troupe. Auditions were held on February 1st and 8th at the Broom Street Theater. While sign-ups are now closed, stay tuned for future opportunities and reach out to info@monkeybusinessinstitute.com with any questions.

Three stylized Christmas trees on a blue background with snowflakes, questioning in-person versus virtual party options.

3 Things to Know to Schedule Your Party Now

Planning your holiday or awards party for late 2021 or early 2022? Learn what's different this year for in-person events and why booking now is crucial. Discover key questions to ask venues and entertainers regarding availability, safety protocols, and cancellation policies to ensure a successful celebration, whether virtual or in-person.

A diverse group of people joyfully posing together, wearing colorful outfits against a bright yellow polka dot background.

We’re Back To In-Person Events!

After 15 months of virtual events, Monkey Business Institute is thrilled to announce our return to in-person performances and training. We've honed our virtual skills but are eager to reconnect with live audiences, offering new improv shows, game shows, and unique entertainment experiences.

Wooden blocks with speech bubble icons connected by white strings on a vibrant orange background.

Soft Skills Training for your Virtual Teams

Bring your remote, hybrid, or work-from-home teams to life with engaging virtual soft skills training. Discover how fun, experiential sessions can foster focus, communication, and collaboration. Learn why live virtual training offers a dynamic and memorable alternative to traditional methods, ensuring lasting knowledge for your team.

A video call featuring six people smiling and engaged, with various home backgrounds and a mix of casual and formal attire.

Virtual Team Parties for Teams and Organizations: The What, When, Where, Why, and How of Having One

Discover the benefits of hosting virtual team parties for your organization. Learn why they boost morale and engagement, and how to plan them effectively. From fun icebreakers to engaging trivia, explore the what, when, where, and how of creating memorable online celebrations.

Retro microphone against a vibrant pink and blue patterned background, featuring the text "WORT + MBI" in bold black.

WORT Interview

Explore how the pandemic has reshaped the Madison comedy scene in this WORT interview with Brad Knight. Discover how local comedians have adapted and what the future holds for live performances and creative expression in uncertain times.

Mirth Madness

Mirth Madness Improv Bracket Tournament

Get ready for the 4th annual Mirth Madness Improv Bracket Tournament! This virtual event, streamed on YouTube, features 8 teams competing in a playoff-style bracket. Teams need to be available on specific April dates if they keep winning. Shows are 20-minute, fully improvised sets performed on Zoom. Sign up by April 7th, and may the best improv team win!