Specialties
Improv School Redlands is not just another comedy spot or workshop space; it's a creative sanctuary. Founded through the 75-year-old Redlands Footlighters Theatre and the Green Room Performance Venue, and backed by decades of performance art expertise, Improv School Redland's curriculum goes beyond traditional improv and acting, focusing on life skills like building a growth mindset, learning how to be vulnerable, teamwork, communication, and building confidence. We're committed to fostering a culture of authenticity, imagination, and community. Whether you're a seasoned performer or stepping onto the stage for the first time, you're not just a student here—you're family. Come join our ever-evolving, dynamic journey!
History
Established in 2019.
Improv School Redlands was founded by Ali Rafter on the foundations of the 75 year old Redlands Footlighters Theatre and Green Room performance venue in Redlands California. Ali is a multi-award winning actress from UCLA‘s prestigious School of Theater Film and Television. With over 30 years of performance and instruction experience with groups like The Groundlings, Impro, and Tastes Like Burning, her hope is that everyone experience the joy of improv and take that joy into the world.
In 2023, Ali graciously passed the space-worked torch to seasoned improviser, instructor, musician, filmmaker, and long time friend, Nik Nieblas. With a deep passion for community, Nik has a BA in Screenwriting, and has trained and performed at iconic institutions: The Groundlings, Second City L.A., iO West, and Spectacles Improv. He is delighted to have shared the script and stage with comedy teams: Tastes Like Burning, Pretentious About Make Believe, Story, Story, Die!, and Fight Or Flight Club.
Meet the Business Owner: Nik N.
Hey y'all! With over 20 years in music and a lifelong love for all things creativity, my acting and improv journey didn't kick off until I started a little known podcast with my buddy Shawn entitled "The Dadcast" which sparked a journey that has led me to train and perform at iconic institutions like iO West, The Groundlings, & Second City L.A.
Recently having "Yes, and-ed..." the transfer of ownership rom Ali Rafter, a beacon of positivity, I find it to be an absolute honor to be faced with such a challenge, because we're building something special here—a community that builds each other up in so many ways.
My teaching philosophy is rooted in a growth mindset that states talent is cultivated, not fixed. And that everyone can excel in improv because life itself is unscripted.
We offer affordable memberships, with classes every Sunday from 5 PM to 10 PM and occasional workshops. If you're curious, just swing by. We're a community that thrives on creativity, and you'll fit right in.