Glasgow Improv Theatre (The GIT) is Scotland's home of improv comedy, founded in 2016 by UCB Los Angeles alumnus Martin James. Beginning with a monthly Harold Night at The Griffin pub in April 2016, the company moved to The Old Hairdressers on Renfield Lane and now offers a full training curriculum alongside weekly shows including Harold Night and Perfect Improv.
History
Founding (April 2016)
Martin James founded Glasgow Improv Theatre in April 2016, launching the first Harold Night at The Griffin pub after training at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in Los Angeles at the end of 2015. John McInnes joined as co-leader of the organisation.
The Old Hairdressers
As the company outgrew its original pub venue, shows moved to The Old Hairdressers on Renfield Lane in Glasgow city centre, where weekly shows continue. Harold Night has run every month since April 2016, pausing only during the pandemic.
Programming
The GIT offers a full training curriculum from beginner Improv 101 drop-ins through to advanced performance-focused courses. Weekly shows include Harold Night and Perfect Improv, the latter featuring acclaimed guest monologists. The company participates in the Glasgow Comedy Festival.
Artistic Identity
Glasgow Improv Theatre is Scotland's primary improv organisation, founded in 2016 by Martin James on the Harold format and UCB tradition, offering a full weekly training and performance programme at The Old Hairdressers.
Key Events
Glasgow Improv Theatre Founded
Martin James founded Glasgow Improv Theatre in April 2016 with the first Harold Night at The Griffin pub, establishing Scotland's first dedicated improv organisation on the UCB long-form model.
How to Reference This Page
The Improv Archive. (2026). Glasgow Improv Theatre. Retrieved March 17, 2026, from https://improvarchive.org/companies/glasgow-improv-theatre
The Improv Archive. "Glasgow Improv Theatre." The Improv Archive, 2026. https://improvarchive.org/companies/glasgow-improv-theatre.
The Improv Archive. "Glasgow Improv Theatre." The Improv Archive, 2026, https://improvarchive.org/companies/glasgow-improv-theatre. Accessed March 17, 2026.
The Improv Archive is a systemically maintained repository. The archive itself acts as the corporate author.