Second Beat Improv Theater

Founding (2017)

Sam Haldiman opened Second Beat Improv Theater on January 7, 2017 at 6040 North Seventh Street in central Phoenix following a late-2016 crowdfunding campaign. Haldiman had trained in short-form improv with Jester'z in Scottsdale beginning in 2000, relocated to Chicago in 2005 to study long-form at iO Theater and Annoyance Theater, and returned to Phoenix in 2008 where he served as programming director and training director at The Torch Theatre before launching his own company.

Development and Relocation

Second Beat relocated to a new location in October 2019, establishing a more permanent home for its long-form programming. The theater distinguishes itself from short-form venues in the Phoenix market by explicitly centering ensemble work and artistic advancement in the Harold and long-form tradition.

Ongoing Operations

Second Beat continues to operate in Phoenix as the city's dedicated long-form improv institution, offering classes and performances rooted in Haldiman's Chicago training background.

Second Beat Improv Theater centers long-form improv training and performance, explicitly distinguishing itself from the short-form competitive format. Haldiman's background at iO Theater and Annoyance Theater informs a curriculum focused on ensemble development, artistic risk-taking, and the advancement of long-form craft. The theater serves Phoenix improvisers seeking training in the Chicago long-form tradition.