Improv + Icebreakers @ MUSO

Four stylishly dressed figures hold briefcases against a vibrant, colorful background, evoking a retro travel theme.

A low-key (and optional!) way to meet the people you just spent an evening laughing with.

Welcome to Monkey Business Institute at MUSO — an intimate, alcohol-free listening room in Madison’s Atwood neighborhood where twice a month, some of MBI’s best improvisers make an entire show right in front of you.

Come with friends. Come on a date. Come alone. Seriously, you can come alone and still have fun!

This page is your cheat sheet for show night: what you’ll see, how our rotating long-form shows work, what to expect at MUSO, and how we’re making meeting people considerably less awkward than it usually is in Madison.

What is an improv comedy show like?

An MBI improv show is completely unscripted and built in real time. Unlike short-form improv games, long-form starts with an idea or suggestion and follows it wherever it goes, building characters, stories, callbacks, and occasionally something so weird we couldn’t recreate it if we tried.

You don’t have to participate. You don’t have to be funny. You just have to show up, settle in, and laugh.

And at MUSO, the fun doesn’t necessarily stop when the show does.

Funny first. Social second.

You already laughed together. We’re just making the saying-hi part easier.

If you’re looking for a place to meet people in Madison that doesn’t involve shouting over a bar or immediately explaining what you do for work — you’re in the right place.

After each MBI show at MUSO, anyone who wants to stick around is invited to join a roughly 15-minute improv icebreaker game facilitated by an MBI improviser.

This isn’t networking. It isn’t speed dating. It’s also totally optional. Nobody is going to make you tell a room full of strangers a fun fact about yourself.

MBI improvisers do this professionally for groups all over Madison. We’ll get things started, make introductions easier, and give you something more interesting to talk about than guessing a stranger’s two truths and a lie.

Which Improv + Icebreakers show is right for you?

MBI takes over MUSO two Fridays a month with a rotating lineup of long-form shows. 

Depending on the night, you might catch musical improv, true stories transformed into comedy, two improvisers creating an entire show together, or another long-form format featuring some of MBI’s favorite performers.

Check the show description before you grab your tickets to see what’s happening that Friday.

No matter which show you choose, it starts at 7:00 pm, and the optional post-show improv icebreaker game follows afterward.

Grab your tickets
View all shows

Events

Events Search and Views Navigation

Event Views Navigation

Today

MUSO FAQs

Can I come by myself?

Please do!

If showing up somewhere alone makes you feel a little weird, congratulations: you are a human person!

MUSO is meant to be an easy Friday night whether you arrive with six friends, your mom, or just yourself. See the show first, then stick around afterward if you are feeling up for casually chatting with some people.

Is the post-show icebreaker required?

Nope.

It’s completely optional and lasts about 15 minutes. Stay for the whole thing, stay for five minutes, or head home immediately after the show. No pressure.

Is this a singles event?

No. It’s an improv show where people can meet other people.

Come to make friends, bring a date, bring your roommate, bring your mom. We’re not matchmaking.

Do I have to participate during the show?

No.

Audience participation is always optional. The audience may be asked for a suggestion, but nobody is going to drag you onstage.

What kind of improv will I see?

MUSO is home to MBI’s rotating long-form shows. That means the format and cast can change depending on the night.

Check the upcoming show listings for the specifics.

Is there alcohol at MUSO?

MUSO is an alcohol-free listening room. There are tea, snacks, and sodas available for purchase.

Where do I buy tickets?

What is your refund policy?

Tickets are generally non‑refundable.

If something unexpected comes up, please reach out — we’ll do our best to help when possible.

Is MUSO wheelchair accessible?

Yes! MUSO is wheelchair accessible. If you have specific accessibility questions or need accommodations for a show, reach out to us at info@monkeybusinessinstitute.com before you arrive and we’d be happy to help.

What time does the show start?

Shows start at 7:00 pm.

Doors open at 6:15 pm.

Where should I park?

MUSO has nearby street parking within walking distance. Public parking is also available behind the United Way building after 6:30pm. Plan a few extra minutes so you’re not rushed.

Show Location

2040 Winnebago St
Madison, WI 53704

MUSO has nearby street parking WIth additional public parking available behind the United Way building after 6:30pm.

Plan a few extra minutes so you’re not rushed.

Doors open 45 minutes before showtime.

Questions or Special Requests?

Reach out! We’re happy to help.

Let’s have some fun!

Thanks for being part of the MBI improv community.
Come for a show, stay for a hang.
We can’t wait to see you.

A diverse group of smiling women in colorful outfits poses against a vibrant yellow and pink background.