The Brea Improv

Food, drinks, friends and, of course, laughter are the key ingredients of Brea Downtown's Improv Theatre. On any given night, a comedian tries out new and old material at the intimate club, self dubbed "Original Comedy Showcase and Restaurant."

Though founder Budd Freidman started the Improv chain in the early 80s, it wasn't until the early 90s that Brea had an Improv to call its own. Franchiser Mark Wilson Anderson decided that his one Irvine location wasn't enough to serve all of Orange county. The then members of Brea's City Council unanimously approved the entertainment permit needed for the venue.

Since its start in Brea, the Improv has moved more recently in 2003 from near the Brea Mall to the newer Brea Downtown on Birch Street. The relocation was done to attract visitors and generate more revenue for the city.

"I believe the move was not only great for The Improv, but has also been beneficial for Brea Downtown," said Dee Burdett, marketing representative for the Improv. "I know that even in the two years that I have been with the club at this locations [Downtown], it has blossomed."

And it's apparent that the new home surrounded by popular eateries, coffee shops, a huge movie theatre and retail stores has given the Improv new life among entertainment seekers in the area.

The Brea Improv has quickly become one of the most prestigious comedy clubs in Southern California, chosen by Comedy Central to tape many of its comedy shows. A number of comedians, including Bobby Collins, Pablo Francisco and Jeff Garcia, have also used the Brea Improv as the venue to record their comedy albums.

Many other big names have performed here in Brea like Damon Wayans, Rosanne, Bob Saget and Dave Chappelle. And along with the big names are a few up-and-comers, most of whom are from Southern California.

"We have had the pleasure of working with some very talented comedians that are on the cusp of booming careers," Burdett said. "The Improv was founded to grow careers of up-and-coming performers."