Nick Armstrong
Improv Utopia EVOLVE 2025
Nick Armstrong Presents
Business in Improv
Business in Improv Workshops
Class 1: Get Butts in Seats! A Marketing Workshop
Ready to take your improv theater's and/or team’s marketing game to the next level? Join Nick Armstrong, co-founder of RISE Comedy, founder of Improv Utopia, and a seasoned improv performer, as he shares tried-and-true strategies to attract audiences, build community, and grow your brand. In this workshop, you'll dive into actionable tips for mastering social media, creating compelling newsletters, and building consistent marketing systems that deliver results. Whether you’re promoting shows, festivals, or classes, Nick’s practical, no-fluff advice will help you cut through the noise and stand out.
This workshop isn't just about theory—it's packed with real-world tactics Nick has used to market successful theaters and events across the country. You’ll learn how to identify your unique selling points, engage your audience, and stay authentic while building your brand. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your approach, this session will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to market your improv theater like a pro!
Class 2: Steering Your Ship to Success
This is your chance to learn the ins and outs of running a successful business with Nick Armstrong, who’s made RISE Comedy and Improv Utopia a success. If you’re managing a theater, or looking to, this workshop dives into the core principles that keep your ship sailing smoothly. From financial management and leadership strategies to building a thriving community and overcoming challenges, Nick brings his real-world experience to help you navigate the waters of entrepreneurship. Meaning he will help you not make the mistakes he did. LOL!
This isn’t just about staying afloat—it’s about thriving. You’ll explore how to set clear goals, create systems that work, and lead with intention while staying true to your mission. With practical advice, real-life examples, and plenty of laughs along the way, Steering the Ship is the perfect guide to help you chart your course and grow a business that’s not only successful but meaningful.
Class 3: Festival Mania! How to Create a Successful Comedy Festival
Want to create a comedy festival that stands out and thrives? In this workshop, Nick will deliver and in-depth workshop on building and developing a successful comedy festival. Whether you’re dreaming big, starting out, considering it, or refining an existing event, this session will equip you with the tools to design an unforgettable experience for performers, audiences, and sponsors alike. Nick will cover everything from programming and budgeting to creating a festival culture that fosters creativity and connection.
You’ll learn how to attract top-tier talent, market your festival effectively, and handle the logistics that make or break an event. With insights drawn from years of producing festivals, Nick will share practical strategies and creative solutions to help you avoid common pitfalls and bring your vision to life. By the end of this workshop, you’ll have the confidence and know-how to launch or level up your comedy festival like a pro.
Class 4: The Vagabond: How to Become a Traveling Performer and Teacher
Do you dream of hitting the road and making a living doing what you love? Whether you're an improviser, comedian, actor, or teacher, this class will give you the tools to craft a career that takes you beyond your home base and out into the world.
Taught by Nick Armstrong, a seasoned performer and teacher with years of experience touring nationally and internationally, this workshop will cover:
Booking gigs: Learn how to find opportunities, pitch yourself, and build lasting relationships with theaters, festivals, and venues.
Teaching on the road: Develop workshops that stand out, adapt to new audiences, and maximize your teaching potential.
Building a personal brand: Establish a reputation that opens doors and keeps you in demand.
Travel hacks for performers: Get tips on budgeting, travel logistics, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance while on the move.
Staying inspired: Keep your performances and teaching fresh and engaging as you navigate new stages and students.
Nick’s journey as the founder of Improv Utopia, Co-Founder of The Improv Network, and Co-Owner of RISE Comedy has given him insider knowledge of what it takes to thrive as a performer and teacher in any setting. Join this workshop to learn how to take your talents on the road and live the Vagabond life with confidence and purpose!
About Nick Armstrong
Nick is an Actor, Improvisor and Writer. On TV, Nick has been on the Emmy-Award winning shows The Office and Grey’s Anatomy. He has also made appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live, New Girl, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Stan Against Evil and Parks and Recreation.
Nick trained in sketch and improv at the world famous Groundlings and iO West. His onstage performance credits include LA's critically acclaimed Harold Team King Ten, Kind Strangers and The Groundlings Sunday Company. He served as artistic director at M.i.’s Westside Comedy Theater and currently owns and is managing director of RISE Comedy in Denver, Colorado. Nick has also taught improv at iO West, The Groundlings, RISE Comedy, M.i.’s Westside Comedy Theater and has done workshops and headlined comedy festivals all over the world.
Nick is also the Camp Director and Founder of Camp Improv Utopia a 501(c)(3), a non-profit improv retreat for grown ups. He is also one of the founding members of the The Improv Network. For more information visit www.nickarmstrong.com, www.risecomedy.com
