On March 2, 2008, that location closed. For photos and video of events produced at that location, click the link at left.

Founded by Artistic Director Stan Wells, a former director at The Groundlings, The Empty Stage has produced thousands of comedy improv shows as well as critically acclaimed sketch shows and plays.

The Empty Stage Comedy Theatre has now become Empty Stage Comedy, performing at various venues in the Los Angeles area. In addition, our artistic director is starting classes in Seattle, Washington to compliment the addition of a theatre group in Portland Oregon.

The Empty Stage Comedy Theatre has also spawned such organizations as EffinFunny.com and Bill Johnson Productions' Magic Meathands training and performance group.

The Empty Stage features a number of signature improv forms, developed by our director, including the transformation form (popularised by our flagship show, The Transformers), the clap-in form (used by Being Humans, Pop!, Vodka and Doughnuts, and The Waterbrains, as well as the Crazy Uncle Joe Show at the Groundlings), and the lights form (as in the Fortune Room).

All of our performers began as students, from beginning students who worked their way up, through advanced students who came from other programs to eventually play on our stage.

The theare was built on the sweat and enthusiasm of Stan as well as all of our performers and their friends and family. Special thanks go to the significant others of all of our participants - without their patience, understanding and support, none of this could have come to be.