What to expect during an improv show at Glass Nickel Pizza

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Forty seats. One stage. A cast of Madison’s best improvisers making it up as they go.

Welcome to Monkey Business Institute’s basement comedy hideout at Glass Nickel Pizza — where the lighting is moody, the laughs are loud, and you’re closer to the action than you have any right to be.

This page is your cheat sheet for show night: how to pick the right show, what to expect when you arrive, and a couple of things Glass Nickel has asked us to be very clear about. Five minutes of reading, then we’ll see you in the basement.

Yes Ma'am Improv Show Performing at The Glass Nickel.

What is an improv comedy show like?

An MBI improv show is unscripted, fast, and built in real time from audience suggestions. Sometimes a scene goes somewhere wonderful. Sometimes it goes somewhere weird. Either way, you’re in on it.

You don’t have to participate. You don’t have to be funny. You just have to show up, settle in, and laugh — and maybe shout out “marine biologist” when prompted.

Which improv show is right for you?

MBI shows vary by style, length, and energy. Check the show description on the ticket page to see:

  • Family-friendly vs. teen-and-up — some shows are for everyone, some get a little spicier.
  • Early or late — early shows run straight through; late shows have an intermission.
  • Short-form vs. long-form — short-form is improv games; long-form is one suggestion that becomes a whole story.
  • Audience participation — always optional, but it ranges from “shout one word” to “you might end up on stage.”

PS: We sell out a lot. When that happens, we can’t add seats at the door — so plan ahead.

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  • Colorful yellow background featuring playful, cartoonish faces with a central black banner reading "ALL AGES IMPROV SHOW."

    All Ages Improv Show @ Glass Nickel Pizza Co!

    Glass Nickel Pizza Co. 2916 Atwood Ave, Madison

    Improv for all ages! This one-hour show is packed with fast-paced, classic, short-form improv comedy! Audience participation is guaranteed and the content is appropriate for…

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  • Colorful graphic featuring bananas and playful text: "GROWN UP" and "IMPROV SHOW" on vibrant backgrounds.

    Grown Up Show @ Glass Nickel Pizza Co!

    Glass Nickel Pizza Co. 2916 Atwood Ave, Madison

    It’s a Grown Up Improv Show by Monkey Business Institute! Our Grown-Up Show features two acts of hilarious improv comedy. This show is for people…

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Glass Nickel FAQs

When You Arrive at Glass Nickel

• Enter through the main Glass Nickel entrance
• Look for MBI signage near the staircase to the basement
• Our MBI House Manager will greet you and check tickets

Doors open 45 minutes before showtime.

IMPORTANT: Food & Drink Policy

We want to be very clear so everyone has a great experience.

Food Policy

• No food is allowed in the basement during shows
 • This includes dine‑in food, takeout, leftovers, boxed pizza or sneaky pocket cookies.
• Glass Nickel does not allow eating in the comedy space

When You CAN Eat Food Policy

• Before the show upstairs
 • After the show upstairs

Guests receive a 15% discount when dining before or after the show.

Please plan your meal before doors open or after the show ends.

Private Shows & Food

If you are renting the entire basement (all 40 seats) for a private show, we can discuss a pizza option as part of your rental.

Private rentals require a special arrangement. Please email: info@monkeybusinessinstitute.com for private shows. 

Drinks & Bevvies in the Basement

Starting in August of 2026, beverages will be available in the basement.
We do not have a drink minimum, so no pressure! 

Servers do not come to you during the show. Please purchase your drinks prior to the show for the entire show.  

Where to park at The Glass Nickel

Glass Nickel has nearby street parking and public parking options within walking distance. Plan a few extra minutes so you’re not rushed.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are located on the first (main) level, not in the basement.
Please plan accordingly before the show begins.

Accessibility & Stairs

Please note: all shows at Glass Nickel require going down one full flight of stairs to access the basement performance space.

If accessibility is a concern, we offer several fully accessible shows at other locations, including MUSO Madison shows, Art House 360 shows, and more.

We’re happy to help you find the perfect match.
Please connect with us at: shows@monkeybusinessinstitute.com

Show Flow

• Early shows run straight through with no intermission
• Late shows include a short intermission

Once the show starts, we ask that you remain seated unless there’s an emergency.

Tips for Young Kids

• Early shows are best for younger audiences (Check out our All Ages offerings)
• Kids should be able to sit and watch for the duration of the show
• There is no walking in and out once the show starts

Late Arrival Policy

Shows start on time. Late arrivals may be seated at the discretion of the House Manager and only if it can be done without disrupting performers or the audience.

Refunds & Ticket Changes

Tickets are generally non‑refundable.

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

Tickets: Where to Buy

Improv at the Glass Nickel in Madison

Photos, Tags + Sharing the Fun

We love seeing your joy.

Share your favorite moments. Feel free to take photos before or after the show. Tag the Glass Nickel and us!

Suggested hashtags: #MBIImprov #yesand #madisonwi #glassnickelpizza

Green and red logo featuring "GLASS NICKEL PIZZA CO." in bold white letters.

Show Location

2916 Atwood Avenue
Madison, WI 53704

Parking

Glass Nickel has nearby street parking and public parking options within walking distance.

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

Doors open 45 minutes before showtime.
Glass Nickel Super Cheesy Pizza

How to Find the Comedy.

Here’s how to get to the basement from either Glass Nickel entrance.

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.
Laugh hard. Arrive hungry (but eat upstairs).
We can’t wait to see you.

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