Nest Theatre is a long-form improv and comedy training center in Columbus, Ohio, founded in November 2016 by Tara DeFrancisco and Rance Rizzutto, both alumni of iO Theater and The Second City. The theater offers classes, workshops, and regular performances rooted in the Harold tradition and Chicago-style long-form.
History
Founding (2016)
Tara DeFrancisco and Rance Rizzutto, both veterans of Chicago's iO Theater and The Second City training programs, founded Nest Theatre in Columbus, Ohio in November 2016. Drawing on their Chicago formation, they built a school and performance program centered on Harold-tradition long-form improv.
Programming
Nest Theatre runs a structured curriculum from introductory through advanced long-form levels, graduating students into house performance teams. Regular shows feature both house ensembles and visiting performers, establishing Nest as a significant hub for long-form improv in Central Ohio.
Artistic Identity
Nest Theatre brings Chicago-trained long-form methodology to Columbus through a structured curriculum and Harold-rooted performance program founded by iO and Second City alumni.
People
Key Events
Nest Theatre Founded in Columbus, Ohio
Tara DeFrancisco and Rance Rizzutto, alumni of iO Theater and The Second City, founded Nest Theatre in Columbus, Ohio in November 2016, bringing Chicago-style long-form training to Central Ohio.
How to Reference This Page
The Improv Archive. (2026). The Nest Theatre. Retrieved March 17, 2026, from https://improvarchive.org/companies/nest-theatre
The Improv Archive. "The Nest Theatre." The Improv Archive, 2026. https://improvarchive.org/companies/nest-theatre.
The Improv Archive. "The Nest Theatre." The Improv Archive, 2026, https://improvarchive.org/companies/nest-theatre. Accessed March 17, 2026.
The Improv Archive is a systemically maintained repository. The archive itself acts as the corporate author.