Improv, Community and Creativity: A Conversation with Chris Seidman of Unscrewed Theater

May 30, 2026 09:00AM ● By Suzie Agrillo

Chris Seidman and Suz (Edith Head)

In the heart of Tucson’s arts scene, Unscrewed Theater, a nonprofit organization, has carved out a unique space for laughter, spontaneity and connection. Built entirely around improvisational comedy, the theater offers something refreshingly different: affordable live shows where nothing is scripted, every performance is unique and the audience plays a central role in shaping the experience.

Unscrewed Theater brings together a rotating cast of local performers who specialize in improv, an unscripted style of theater that relies on quick thinking, collaboration and creativity inspired by the traditions of groups like The Second City in Chicago. The Tucson troupes deliver high-energy shows ranging from short-form games like those seen on Whose Line Is It Anyway? to longer, story-driven performances, including musical and comic book improvisation shows.

Beyond entertainment, the organization’s mission emphasizes education, including improv classes for people interested in learning the craft. It provides a supportive environment for performers to develop their skills.

What truly sets Unscrewed Theater apart is its emphasis on community. Every month, Unscrewed Theater partners with local charities to help raise funds. The theater often hosts special events, themed nights and collaborations with other local nonprofit organizations.

In July, Unscrewed Theater is collaborating with nonprofit Sol Dog Lodge, a state-of-the-art campus in Marana, to raise funds. It is a “one-stop oasis” dedicated to keeping dogs and their families together. Sol Dog Lodge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that offers essential dog care services, including professional training, grooming and specialized care to support owners in crisis and prevent pets from being surrendered to overcrowded shelters.

On July 4, Unscrewed Theater will allow owners to bring their dogs to the show, giving dogs with noise anxiety sanctuary from fireworks. Barry Weisband, Sol Dog Lodge’s donor relations and stewardship manager, notes, “The July 4 fundraiser is a vital opportunity for our community to invest in the future. The funds raised will directly support our mission to expand our programs and ensure every dog in our care receives the highest professional standards of kindness and training.” The event will include raffle baskets to raise funds and attendees at all live shows in July will be invited to donate to the cause as well.

At the center of Unscrewed Theater is Executive Director Chris Seidman, performer, teacher and passionate advocate for the power of improv. He says, “We are Tucson’s place for improv comedy.” We sat down with Seidman to talk about the theater’s mission, the art of improvisation and why saying “yes, and” can change more than a scene.

Q&A With Chris Seidman, Executive Director of Unscrewed Theater

What drew you personally to improv?

I moved to Tucson in 2004 and went to a show by an improv troupe named Not Burnt Out Just Unscrewed. I had done drama in high school for four years, which helped me hone my skills in timing and delivery. Improv hooked me because of its immediacy.

There’s something electric about creating something out of nothing with a group of people you trust. I loved the laughter and spontaneity I experienced at the show and decided, “I can do this.”

Unscrewed Theater emphasizes

clean comedy. Why is this important?

We are dedicated to clean, inclusive comedy. Having all-age shows is essential for a community theater. It’s interactive with audiences, so it’s very communal, making it important to have a safe space. What really defines us is our commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere where anyone can laugh and learn.

Clean doesn’t mean boring; it means creative. We challenge ourselves to be smarter and more inventive. Families, seniors and people who might feel uncomfortable in a typical comedy club can all feel at home here.

What is the mission statement of Unscrewed Theater?

Unscrewed Theater is dedicated to teaching and showcasing the art of improvisational theater, as well as other unique forms of entertainment. We foster a safe and supportive atmosphere in which artists can grow and explore their talent. We provide a venue to showcase these talents to enrich our community through the arts.

What makes the Tucson improv community unique?

Anyone who is an improv performer in Tucson is generous with their talent and their community. It’s a volunteer-driven theater. Tucson has an incredible mix of talent and heart. People show up not just to perform but to support each other. We’ve worked hard to create a strong sense of community here.

You’re also an educator. How does teaching improv impact your perspective?

Teaching is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. Watching students grow, take risks and surprise themselves is amazing. I think it makes me a better performer. Working with students takes me back to basics that provide a foundation.

Improv isn’t just about being funny; it bui-lds skills like confidence, communication and empathy. Whether you are in a meeting, having a tough conversation or just navigating daily life, the “yes, and” mindset can make a huge difference.

What can a first-time audience member expect at a show?

Expect to be part of the experience. Most importantly, expect to laugh a lot. All of our shows are different. We have a group called “From the Top,” which is a musical improv group. They take suggestions from the audience and create a Broadway-style musical with live musicians, live performers and no script.

Another group is Comic Chaos, which is like an improvised comic book. They create a superhero-villain comic book story. The musical and comic book shows are what we call long-form shows. Then we have a short-form improv show, Not Burnt Out Just Unscrewed, similar to Whose Line Is It Anyway?, with many audience suggestions. We often host 9 p.m. shows for ages 17 and older.

What are some of the themed shows you’re doing?

We did a special Star Wars show in May, and we have a Beach Blanket Bingo show in July. We also rent out the theater to other nonprofits for events such as plays, stand-up comedy and student productions.

What role does improv play beyond entertainment?

The principles of improv comedy can really help with communication. You practice listening and acceptance. It’s collaborative, unpredictable and teaches you to listen in a whole new way. I think everyone should take an eight-week improv class.

We offer this experience to people who are not career performers. People can build confidence, practice public speaking and learn how to work together as a team. These are life skills. Just try it. You don’t have to be funny, you don’t have to be outgoing, you just have to be willing. Improv meets you where you are and might surprise you where it takes you.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone curious about improv, what would it be?

Come see a show.

The July 4 show will be a family-friendly performance at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Unscrewed Theater is located at 4500 E. Speedway Blvd., No. 39, Tucson. Call 520-289-8076 or visit UnscrewedTheater.org.

Suzie Agrillo is a freelance writer in Tucson and a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. She focuses on the arts, inspirational people and the human connection. She can be reached at [email protected].

Chris Seidman of Unscrewed Theater [5 Images] Click Any Image To Expand