Brave New Workshop

Performing arts theater · Downtown West

Brave New Workshop

Performing arts theater · Downtown West

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824 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403

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Brave New Workshop by Photo courtesy of Brave New Workshop Comedy Theatre
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null
Brave New Workshop by null

Highlights

Brave New Workshop serves up sharp, satirical comedy and improv in an intimate downtown spot where no topic’s off limits.  

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824 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403 Get directions

bravenewworkshop.org
@bnwimprov

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824 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403 Get directions

+1 612 332 6620
bravenewworkshop.org
@bnwimprov
𝕏
@bnwimprov

$$

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Last updated

Jul 30, 2025

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@afar

"Join a Comedy Tradition at BNW A Twin Cities comedy institution, Brave New Workshop have been creating smart, funny, and thought-provoking comedy, satire, and improv for more than 55 years. Their shows regularly sell out so buy a ticket online in advance. My top tip? Go a little early so you can check out the local beers on offer in the bar."

Classic and Contemporary Culture in Minneapolis-Saint Paul
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Greta Johnson Sher

Google
Be ready to fall off your chair laughing or be mad as hell! The latest show had me, and the improv troop, laughing so hard tears were streaming. Watching these professionals crack due to requested audience participation just adds to the cleverness of their skits. Always timely, their scathing commentary on current events will have you rolling or crying.

Miranda Soukup

Google
LOVED seeing the world is ending show, for anyone who loves the masochist scroll of political commentary on social media, you will giggle endlessly. I DEMAND the Costco song be released on Spotify…

Adnan Ahmed

Google
I’ve been going to Brave New Workshop for the last 10 years. I was really disappointed upon seeing the preview for their latest show, “The World is Burning So I Made S’mores.” Katy Mcewen’s song, “That’s why we lost” punched down on voters for infighting and not supporting the Democrats who funded the Palestinian genocide, refused to cancel student debt or do anything to safeguard the right wing attack on reproductive rights. They also made fun of working class Republican Party voters by portraying them as stupid. The show basically echoed the toxic liberal talking points of the Democratic Party elite who hate their base and demonize the most underprivileged people on both sides of the political divide. Maybe 🎶 that's why you lost 🎶 If you’re going to do comedy try punching up instead of down.

Tami Cabrera

Google
Lauren, Caleb and all of the actors, writers, staff at BNW are amazing! We're so lucky to have them in the Twin Cities. I highly recommend going to see this 40+ year running theater group and their shows!!

Jen

Google
Love Brave New Workshop! Attended their annual Christmas show and it was great! The theater is small so you get a great view of the stage regardless of where you sit.

Stephanie Weiss

Google
We had a fantastic time (despite the a-hole in front of me who would not shut up). Love Taj and Lauren!!! Looking forward to the next show!!!

John

Google
It was a wonderful experience. The crowd is involved, and the actors are very respectful and welcoming. The venue is nice and small. Parking is decent for the surrounding area. The venue has VERY few spots. Please arrive early.

Shard Milne

Google
One of Minneapolis' best kept secrets - Dudley Riggs is the oldest satirical comedy club in the country, having been around for 60 years! Their shows are usually two part sketch comedies with minimal props and costumes. There is a short (15 minute) improv segment after the show too, which is included in your show ticket (or you can pay $5 to see just the improv)! Shows are hit or miss but generally very funny, and quite offensive. Not for the faint of heart! They also serve signature, humorously named cocktails to drink during the show and intermission.
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Julie D.

Yelp
I came to the Brave New Workshop to watch Smelling Elon's Musk. The theater seating is on the second floor and they have snacks and beverages for sale in the lobby. Snacks ranged from candies to popcorn and they had various alcoholic and n/a beverages. Drinks were around $10 each but they did have a last chance sale for $6 cans. As for the show, we were cracking up throughout! The cast put together an amazing show and brought humor to the unfortunate reality that is the wealth gap. I would definitely come back to see another show!
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Victor M.

Yelp
So the minnesota tesla club decided to see this because well elon. I have been to many shows in the past here and i have always had a great time. This show was no different. The actors interacted with the audience and that made the shoe great. Smelling elons musk was vert creative and funny. The show was about billionaires and told a great story. The song and dance were great by all the actors and well I would highly recommend this show or anything else they do.
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Cassandra A.

Yelp
Fun and inexpensive! Don't show up too early like the website tells you to, 15 min is early enough to get there, park, check in, and grab a beverage. I will definitely come back over and over again!
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Tricia M.

Yelp
They nail it every time. Talent, comedy, pacing, variety of skits, improv at the end. Love it all!

Andrew J.

Yelp
Just not very funny. History of the place is fun, but the connect itself was just not funny.
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Diane B.

Yelp
Brave New Workshop is really fun and a bit edgy. You have to come with an open mind. Nothing is off limits and it can be really funny. It's an enjoyable evening out with great drinks and great humor. My favorite part is at the end when they do improv. Overall enjoyable but a bit edgy. Nice refreshments. Really fun presentation. Enjoy!
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Michelle W.

Yelp
BTW never fails to delight, shock and straight out embarrass. I can't get enough! If you're looking for something off-the-wall to do with a friend or someone you've been dating (first date could be kind of iffy depending), this is a fantastic idea.
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Mark T.

Yelp
What a great night! "Angels We Have Heard are High" (O Holy Crap) was an absolutely hysterical fun event! From the opening introductions through to their own take on the 12 Days of Christmas they had me laughing and in tears! Great fun (not for the kiddos though... keep them duct taped to the floor at home. OR feel feee to get a sitter. That works too. (Probably preferred for most) Bonus was an improve session as an afterglow "nightcap"!
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Tracy A.

Yelp
Hilarious! Went here for the first time ever and saw Booty and the Beast a Tinderella Story. Cast was funny, venue is small and intimate and no bad seats in the house.... they didn't pull people on stage which I like. I hate when improv does that... it always ends awkwardly... Also... you can text you bar order in during the show! What? why doesn't every theater to this? Genius!
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Risa Y.

Yelp
Saw Booty and the Beast a comedy revue about dating disasters! Beautiful theater and not a bad seat in the house. Awesome service...I wanted to have coffee...so I asked one of the ushers if there was a coffee shop nearby...and I was recommended Caribou which was located at the Lunds grocery store which was with in walking distance, and they let me take it into the theatre. Unfortunately I had to leave early because I ended up not feeling well...but as I was leaving one of the ushers gave me a bottle of water complimentary...such wonderful service and experience.... will definitely be back!
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Shawn S.

Yelp
The new theater is great. A larger space on Hennepin in the the theater district, with an upstairs theater that is about the same size as the old one but more roomy and better sight lines. A downstairs bar where they encourage you to come early "the more you drink the funnier we are." The bar has a couple of taps, some bottled beers, mixed drinks, and Cupcake wine. I've seen a few shows over the years - and if you love improv, you will love BNW. One of the favorite players was off the night that we went, so the comedy was a little off for me - a little too political, had its ups and downs. The highlight was always when the cast made each other laugh.
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Lisa P.

Yelp
Last night I went to the Brave New Workshop for the firs time to see the Christmas show "Twerking Around the Christmas Tree." Wow - what a great experience! The show was upstairs and there was a full bar with specialty, themed cocktails for the show. I had a Miley's Merrymaker (notice the theme)- hot chocolate with kahlua and peppermint schnapps. It was the perfect drink to get me in the holiday spirit, and the price was totally reasonable ($6). The show had 4 actors who did 3 acts. The first 2 were scripted, and the last was improv. The whole show was hilarious and included lots of Minnesota puns. I can't wait to go to the next show at the BNW.
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Randy D.

Yelp
We thoroughly enjoyed our evening at BNW. We attended their current show "How to make love like a Minnesotan". It was hillarious...and very entertaining! Top quality...but we were not all that impressed with the post show improv. It just didn't stand up to the quality of their main show (nor of other improv routines I've seen around). Prior to the show we grabbed a couple of drinks at the bar (they serve beer and wine) and the bar tenders were very helpful and personable. Tips: 1) If you think you'll need a bathroom during a break, RUN! The line can become very long. 2) After the show, there are plenty of great restaurants nearby that are still open after the show. Check out Duplex...or Chipotle, for a great post show meal.
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Chris M.

Yelp
Brave New Workshop, while still somewhat new to this particular address, has been a staple in the Cities for about half a century. So even though the downtown digs are new - they've brought with them the same great comedy and improv they've been providing for many years. I have now been to a couple of their shows at the new site and everything has been well produced, topical and witty. Their shows typically run for a couple of months and are usually a satirical riff on the Twin Cities and national zeitgeist, but they do a great job continuously adding material as the weeks fall off the calendar, which keeps the show current and fresh. But just in case your funny bone isn't twitching enough, they have plenty of beer and booze to inspire laughter if needed... So stop in for a show (buy one get one free tickets for MPR members), be prepared to laugh at yourself and society's shortcomings and stick around for the improv that follows the late night shows.
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Dawn G.

Yelp
I love a good comedy show and BNW never fails to deliver. These are some seriously crazy and hilarious character comedians. I've been going to BNW since I was a teenager and have seen a lot of shows over the years. Caleb and Katy McEwen were fantastic on stage and I miss them but this comedic genius duo is still going strong from behind the scenes. The BNW shows are designed to make you laugh out loud with just the right amount of offensive material (which I think is key to good comedy). I'm amazed that the shows continue to be this funny and creative after so many years. They do a great job of finding new material from current events and twisting them into situations you can't help but laugh at. While enjoying the show, be sure to partake of their fun cocktails that they sell at very reasonable prices. Makes the show even funnier! With or without adult beverages, the BNW shows are going to make you laugh and look at the world a little differently. Check it out.
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S And J T.

Yelp
I can't remember the last time I laughed this hard. Poignant & hard hitting, biting comedy that is as timely as it is funny, it takes you back to the heyday of SNL. The seating's a bit sardine like & in spite of the "specialty drinks" advertisement I only saw beer & wine, but once the show begins you'll forget everything but the spot on dialogue & the talent & professionalism of the extremely funny cast. Trumpsters beware. This is not your Donny's cup of tea.
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Jacob R.

Yelp
Their shows are top notch and the improv classes they offer are incredible, I highly suggest them to everyone.
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Jennifer K.

Yelp
50 shades of grey... With Lauren Anderson as one is the actors.... What else could you want in a Friday night, this is a fantastic show with an amazing group of actors, a true must for a wonderful historical night out, another great show by the brave new workshop!
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Kari W.

Yelp
My friend, Anne K., wanted to go see Fifty Shades of Gravy at Brave New Workshop and invited me along for the ride. It was a great diversion from our typical shenanigans - and we love supporting local artists. I didn't bother to look up a description of the show prior to our experience. My friend bought the tickets and I didn't question her generosity. I read the Fifty Shades books (don't judge me) and I figured this would be the funniest show I would ever see. The books give a lot of material to make fun of, after all. I expected a mockery of the 50 Shades trilogy, a comedic slaughter of the ridiculous books and the people who read them. What we got instead was a social satire with references to the book. ('Everything is Better when you Masturbate' was one song they sang). Basically it was a show that made fun out of the horrific current events (specifically racism and related events) - and the book was a form of escapism from those events. I didn't want to go laugh at what is happening socially right now. I wanted to go laugh my head off at the stupid books and their subsequent success. I wanted to be made fun of for reading them (and enjoying them). I wanted kinky sex and spankings! Er, well, wanted to laugh at them anyway. The cast was funny, very talented people. They wrote, produced and performed the show and I give them kudos for that. They also did about a half hour of improv a the end of the show that was awesome. It just wasn't what I expected. Next time I'll do my research!
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Steven L.

Yelp
I've gone to the BNW 2 times now. I feel the tightening grip of this wildly funny and euphoric drug around my neck. The skits, material, creativity, environment, and acting are better than you could imagine. Your experience will leave you in agony and disbelief whenever the show finally comes to an end... but also in a gentle bliss for you have not laughed that hard nor have you enjoyed yourself that much in quite some time. Moral of the story: GO. And tell your friends...
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Steve C.

Yelp
Hilarious show. I went because I was in town and looking for something to do, but if I lived in Minneapolis I'd be going regularly. The theater itself was a nice size with no bad seats from what I could tell.
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Jason B.

Yelp
I know many Minneapolis residents that have never been to BNW. For shame......for "f"ing shame. BNW is hilarious. Everyone reading this needs to follow my 6-step plan to success: 1-Donate to MPR and get your membership card 2-Call BNW, mention you MPR membership to get 50% off your tickets (no small dollar amount when weekend tickets can be 30 bucks!) 3-laugh your ass off for the first act 4-Intermission (buy booze and M&Ms) 5-laugh your ass off for the second act 6-buy me a drink across the street at Green Mill and scene,
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Brody F.

Yelp
$27 per ticket = $9 per charitable chuckle. My wife and I went there last Saturday (we love comedy clubs and theatre) with some friends and were disappointed. I'm glad we tried it once, but I will never go back. It just wasn't funny, and based on my internal Laugh-O-Meter, the audience agreed with me. I was expecting improv and got 'scripted improv' instead, which just isn't the same. The recurring punchline of the night was a series of different names for male genitalia. btw
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Corey C.

Yelp
Last night I was invited to join some friends and family to attend, "Brett Favre's Christmas Spectacular: The Immaculate Interception" Christmas show, and the Brave New Work shop sure delivered like they have every time I've been there!!! Ok, so I've only been there twice, but their Christmas show held up to every positive rumor I've heard about the Christmas show! The Brave New Workshop is always on top of current events, and when it comes to poking fun at politics or religion there is no bias, as some might say, "They're equal opportunity assholes." Not only does The Brave New Workshop deliver (the two times) every time I've been there, but the small venue allows even the people sitting in back feel like they're right up front. You can almost taste the words! ...and make sure you take into account this is coming from someone who hates "live plays" but I wouldn't even call it that, its just one great comedy show...is that still considered a play??? Enjoy!
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sarah p.

Yelp
Founded by Dudley Riggs, the Brave New Workshop is an iconic theater in MSP. If you want to get involved in improve or writing, you can take classes here. On Sundays you can watch pretty funny improve for a buck!!! Talk about making your dollar stretch! And you can cross the street and indulge in Happy Hour drinks and apps after wards!
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Breanne K.

Yelp
Brave New Workshop happens to be a great little comedy theater! I love them for hosting the IAGG group. I went for Improv a Go Go on Sunday for a $1. Best steal of my life! They have four acts that night that run from 8-10pm. The acts rotate, so it can be hit or miss, but it will always be well worth the $1 to check it out. Check the line up for the night at http://www.improvagogo.com/ Just a side-note: If Adventures of Tim, Troy, and Damien is on the roster for that night you MUST go! They were so funny and the whole audience was cracking up.
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Erin J.

Yelp
My sister, her boyfriend and I went to see "How To Make Love Like a Minnesotan: Sleepless in Shakopee" last night and we were laughing so hard we were crying right from the beginning. Our whole family is from Minnesota. Our parents moved to Iowa right before I was born, and now she's moved to Minneapolis, and I to Chicago. We thought this would be a great way to spend a Friday night in the Minn, and we were so, so satisfied. Wickedly sharp satire and observational humor. Loved. It. This show in particular is just hilarious, because darned near everything they explain/describe as what it's like to love someone, Minnesotan to Minnesotan, is true!! I don't know if Minnesota truly is the most sexually-repressed state (Iowa would have to be some very, very close competition), but recognizing that and then putting it on display was just hilarious. I hope we go to the BNW every time I'm in Minneapolis.
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Allison B.

Yelp
The Brave New Workshop has moved Downtown Minneapolis and it's about time! I have seen two shows there since it has relocated to the newly renovated space on Hennepin Avenue and although the shows have always been funny, being Downtown made a world of difference! Most of the actors are the same ones that we all fell in love with in the Uptown venue, so don't worry, you'll still see some familiar faces. The shows consist mostly of short sketches (similar to SNL) that fall within a given theme and if you are lucky, the cast will follow with an encore performance of a few improv "games" which are always my favorite part because you get to see how truly funny the actors are unscripted. The two main reasons why I will always support the BNW: 1.) No subject matter, religion, political affiliation, body part, sexual preference, uncomfortable situation, or stereotype is off limits to these geniuses. Because they are entirely privately funded (aka do not rely on government/grant money) they can make fun of whatever they want... and believe me, they do. 2.) I have planned various charity events and the Brave New Workshop is one of only a few businesses that donate without hesitation. Not only are these people comedic geniuses, but they are generous and care about the Minneapolis community. Everyone should check out the new space as soon as you possibly can!
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Meredith M.

Yelp
Always an excellent show! I have been attending BNW shows since I was a young-adult. My family started on the holiday shows and while that is still a family tradition, I like to see all the new shows with friends, too! Most recently I saw the "Babe Lincoln" show and its put on by two of the best women in the troupe. Its hilariously, falling out of my seat, eye tearing funny. I love how on-topic and current these shows are. It helps us all feel like we're not so crazy ;) The downtown venue makes it so much easier to get to and from your seat and the whole place just looks great! I love how they have the improv theater/private event space downstairs and the main stage upstairs. Plus, THREE bars? No super long lines anymore! Go go go!
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Laura P.

Yelp
I love this place. There are a few different shows that you can see here. On Sundays you can go to 'Improv A Go-Go for $1. I've went to this and it's a good value. Not as funny as the main show, but still, it's a frick'n dollar folks! They have Tuesdays Six Ring Circus, which features the different improv troupes that I believe, not sure, are people that are in the improv class that they offer through the Brave New Workshop school. It's a little more hit-and-miss, but it's just $1, so you can't really complain. And, hey, when it's not funny, that just means you haven't drank enough from their bar *wink* They do a late night show after their main show on Fridays and Saturdays where you can come in for a $1 and see the 'third act' from the main show. Not quite sure when that starts, since I've always just went to the main show and stayed the whole way though. The Friday and Saturday main show ends up being $24 or so and it's about an hour and a half of hilarity. I saw their show that ran through Christmas and I nearly peed my pants 2 dozen times. Loved it! Their next show seems like it'll be fun, I love the title: "The Brave New Workshop Saves the Planet" or "Yes We Can, But Do We Have To?" Awesome! It opens July 17th, but you can preview it on July 9th. Their comedy is really topical and pokes fun at current events. They tend to have a progressive view on things and have a no-fear stance on who they should and shouldn't make jokes about. I love it! I feel like everyone should have the ability to step outside their lives once in awhile and just laugh at all the bullshit that we're all facing each and every day. You can't be serious about everything all the time and this place allows you to laugh at yourself, your president, your economical downfall, your mom, the fact that are planet is going to shit, your neighbor's tacky bermuda shorts, gas prices, religion. . .I mean, everything. There is no topic that is too sacred for them, they'll take it all on! Plus, they have a little bar there. Git your drank on, son! Beer prices are a little steep, but, eh, oh well. You'll have the time of your life!
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Chris K.

Yelp
Brave New Workshop is funny. Plain and simple. So many people drive by their 26th and Hennepin Ave theater and don't think twice about stopping in. Dumb. They don't know what they're missing. BNW is improvisational comedy. They do skits, they have a general theme for a show, but this comedy is all about improvisation. And, they're damn good at it. How to make love like a Minnesotan: The Full Montevideo was my fave show of this past year. Hilarious, witty and outright perfect in so many ways. The shows poke fun at everything it is to be from our frigid little state - and talk about sex all in the same show. Weird? Sure. BNW has been a Twin Cities institution since the 1950s. Many famous comedians have cut their teeth at BNW - Al Franken, Pat Proft and Louie Anderson to name a few - and the history of Dudley Rigg's little comedy show means BNW continues to incubate great talent. Friday night shows seem to attract the biggest crowds, so go Thursday or Saturday - and be sure to bring some cash for concessions. Nothing makes a comedy show funnier than an adult beverage.
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Brian M.

Yelp
The show was hilarious and talented improve story? Well I would but It was based on my first visit under the suggestion from Laura P.(who makes awesome reviews BTW) The actors were clever and quick witted. I attended the Creature Feature and the audience decided our creature is Santa in "Clause of Death" which was playing on off the wall humor to bad horror movie acting and characters. I am told the workshop is a improve school and it's graduates put on the shows and Students on Sunday for a $1 which I am told can be a hit or miss but it's hard work to do improve and working with the audience. It's a must when visiting or live in Minneapolis
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Justin K.

Yelp
I'm liking the new downtown digs quite a bit. It has some significant improvements--100% more stages (2), 100% more bars (2), at least 100% more bathrooms and 100% fewer obstructions (0)--all of which adds up to a great experience! The vibe of the place is more like that of the Pantages or Orpheum, although obviously not nearly as big. It's more corporate and a little less folksy than the well-loved space they occupied for several decades down the road in Uptown. You can't really blame them, though. It's just what happens when you grow up and move into a brand new, custom-built space. It's sort of like the business equivalent of ditching the run-down apartment you shared with a couple hippie roommates after college and moving into a loft by the river after you got a real job. You trade "charm" for convenience and amenities. You still have a hard time finding parking, but at least now you have the option of parking in a ramp instead of driving around for an hour. All this talk about the space isn't really that important, because you don't come for the bathrooms. You come to see side-splitting, high-energy comedic performances by an ensemble of talented performers. I'm happy to say that you still get the classic, hilariously funny mix of songs and skits that you'd expect from BNW. This is key. I've been to two performances in the new place, including a preview of the new show about the 2012 election and I can't wait to see the finished version. I'm also glad they're still putting on more experimental shows in the old space. There's just something about a well-used space that makes comedy better. Either way, go see a show, already. You won't regret it!
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JuliAnne O.

Yelp
This place has stellar customer service and awesome comedy shows. I can't say enough about BNW. It's really a great place, with lovely staff, excellent customer service, and awesome comedy shows! They're hilarious! You may hurt yourself from laughing so much. One tip: Leave the kids at home. I don't know why people being kids here. I'm always shocked to see this. It's an adult comedy venue. It's not adolescent or kid humor, and when your kids are there, I spend half my time worrying about the inappropriateness of the show for them, instead of watching the show and enjoying it for myself.
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Chris M.

Yelp
If you leave a show and didn't feel offended, you obviously weren't listening -- and I LOVE it! I have been more times than I can count (OK not really, but probably 6-7 shows over the years) and have loved everyone. The show is especially funny for Minnesotans as they put in a lot of local news/political pundits, but can certainly be enjoyed by everyone. This is a no-holds-bar comedy performance and keeps you laughing the whole time. After their last show on Saturday they do a 30-45 minute improv set with suggestions from the audience. I've found this to be hit or miss - luckily last Saturday it was absolutely hilarious (of course I always stay for it though -- there is something wonderful and awesome about an art form in such a raw form and being able to see it live). Customer service is great too -- the bartenders are always having a good time chatting with you etc etc while still giving good service to all patrons.
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Ildefonso S.

Yelp
Why do I give out so many fives? Well, holms, I hand the shit out 'cuz this shits my city. Know what I'm saying, dawg? You on my turf, and you get hit if you think your gonna be looking at my girl, jackin my rims, or rippin my system! I own it. And you? Shiiiiit, Yo! Now I go to the BNW every few months. And I gotta say, G, that this place is the shit of all shit! If I could grant a six point five, I would scream "HELL YEAH CABRONE!" Why you asking? Well, esse, every show I've been I've laughed my motherfuckin ass home. I don't even have to bring my piece! It's all good. I just leave that shit with my baby and watch all that satire and shit from my hommys on stage. They real good. Reeeal good. It's so good that I throw down that shit after I get home and kick it with my boys. Its like I haven't even left the theater, yo. I just grease those motherfuckers with some of that BNW freaky shit and everyone just eats it up. And the improv night? Mmmmm Mmmmm Mmmmm. You know what I'm saying. Shit's only one green. Though, uh, shit isn't as good as the main show. Now that shit is kickin! Nothing betta than the main show. Oh, yeah, baby. Those motherfuckers are original. It's some real funny shit. Now is this shit perfect? Hell no, man! Shit's gets expensive. They want thirty dollas a show. Where you think I'm gonna get thirty dollas ever week? Shiiit, this city is in a recession! I ain't got no money. But if all your hommys are outta town, then, shit dawg, I'd check this shit out. You'll have a real good time. Know what I'm saying?
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Biff P.

Yelp
I had to take my husband to this comedy theater. When I lived in Minneapolis 20 years ago they were the best comedy theater I had ever been to. I'm happy to see that they are still the best comedy theater group I have seen. We were lucky to be visiting Minneapolis during their best of show. Every skit was hilarious. My personal favorite was the skit about sweatpants and yoga pants. Too funny!!! All the actors were excellent. If you need a good laugh this would be a great place to go. They also do improv after the last intermission.
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Feargal L.

Yelp
Brave New Workshop is hand down the funniest spot in the Twin Cities. Their shows always knock it out of the park. The humor is always cutting & topical. New content is contstantly being added to reflect what is in the news. Tip: get tickets for closing night. Closing night often as unintended suprises as they often depart from the script to add more improv
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Mariel L.

Yelp
I always have a great time watching shows at the Brave New Workshop's Comedy Theater on Hennepin. It's the best entertainment bang for your buck, because these actors are insanely talented and ridiculously hilarious. I've only seen shows at their new Hennepin theater, so I'm not sure how much better this is from the older one, but I sense having separate restrooms is a BFD. I also like that they have bars on both floors, and the drinks aren't that pricey, either; in fact, they have some great drink specials during the shows. During intermission, they have servers that take your drinks as well. Of course, the nice amenities and comfortable space wouldn't be anything if the shows themselves are bland, and these are brilliant scripted shows, people. There's typically a theme with every show. For example, Occupy Arden Hills makes fun of the aimless millennials (thank you very much), while Lance Armstrong's Steroid-Pumped Revue has skits about cheating. Not all skits are over-the-top funny, but there's a lot of those, enough to keep me coming back. I also like how they can combine scripted comedy with some improv. Watching a show at the BNW is surely a fun way to spend your night with friends.
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Kendra P.

Yelp
Brave New Workshop provides an energetic & creative experience. For me, it provided a perfect contrast to a string of classical theater I had been seeing by playwrights that had been dead for many, many (many) years. Honestly, I was feeling a little restless with the shows I had been seeing. This was the perfect remedy. The actors were sharp and the venue was intimate and friendly. The play was fast-paced and relevant to my life (local and modern). I also felt like I was supporting innovative, young artists.
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Zheng W.

Yelp
HI-LARIOUS! I took the boy out for a dinner and a comedy downtown and the Brave New Workshop didn't disappoint. Laura (or Lauren?) Anderson may be the best female comedian I'd seen! She was so animated and comical - it was everything you'd hope a female comedian to be! The sketch was clever and hysterical - their renditions of "12 days of Christmas" kept us laughing for the next 2 days. However, the improv wasn't remotely as good. I will say though they succeeded at being funny without getting overly raunchy, which seemed to be the fail proof resort for most comedy shows. Their new location is right in the heart of downtown. What better to do than catching a 10pm comedy show after a satisfying meal at one of the over-priced restaurants?
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Nell B.

Yelp
Came here this past weekend for the Christmas show, "I Saw Daddy Marry Santa Claus". Honestly I think they should have named it something better, because the show was so much better than the title led on. We were ushered upstairs to our reserved table after getting drinks. We had one free drink ticket each, so I cannot comment to the drink prices, but the bartender was extremely friendly and accommodating. I would say that they should take out one of two tables upstairs, as every time I laughed I bonked heads with the woman behind me. Some of the acts were inclusive and some were more improv - I thought it was a nice mix. They included jokes about Minnesota and some pop culture / politics which was funny too. While they swore a couple times and mentioned some innuendos, I was not offended or blown away by anything. I thought it was a pretty hilarious show - I would definitely go back!
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Beverly L.

Yelp
"You make meat that tastes like candy!" Lauren Anderson, on General Tzo. (My favorite BNW quote ever!) I rarely miss one of BNW's quarterly shows, because they are too funny to miss! Most people have said enough about the BNW, so here are some quick tips possibly not mentioned yet: 1) Become an MPR member. "What? This review is about BNW!" I know, I know, but with your MPR membership you get a perpetual 50% off discount at BNW. That's an incredible deal 2) With said discount comes the back row of seats- which is fine from a viewing standpoint. But if you sit in them in the winter, be sure to wear a tank top and shorts because you'll sweat your ass off. It gets hot back there. 3) Buy some popcorn at the bar- they have popcorn flavor powder! 4) Don't miss their shows!
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Wanda M.

Yelp
The sketches are great, comparable to Second City in Chicago. Get there early for good seats, even if you buy ahead because if you don't, you may not be able to see due to obstructions. If you are rowdy, you will be told to shut the f up and may be asked to leave. Don't be an ass and you will be just fine. Beer and wine available...on tap- Finnegan's and a seasonal Summit
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Stephanie K.

Yelp
I've been to three shows at the Brave New Workshop and I always have a great time. Most shows are heavily politically based but they give the liberals as hard of a a time as the republicans. Tickets are rather expensive and I'm glad I have my MPR card to give me 50% off. Otherwise, I wouldn't be able to go very often. Discount tickets can also be found through other sites. BNW has a nice bar area and snacks. I like that you can take food and drink into the theater. Overall, highly recommended.
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Lindsay M.

Yelp
I cannot rant and rave enough to express my enjoyment each visit to BNW I've made. LOL - literally, Laugh-Out-Loud fun. Brett Favre's Christmas Spectacular the Second Coming should be your Christmas theatre experience this year. You'll laugh at silly family traditions, ridiculous childhood memories and insane MN Winter quirks! Brett Favre might not like the show as he is key to most jokes, but you'll laugh your fanny off at his expense. If you don't pay much attention to the world (politics, entertainment, news, etc...) around you then you won't get most BNW jokes. As others have stated, leave your offenses at the door as they will definitely step on most people's toes. So, read up on the past year's gossip and head over to see this great show! I've visited BNW a few times and the final set with the improve is typically hysterical. Unfortunately, I was less than impressed with the actor's talents on my most recent visit. Maybe because it was the 10 PM show (almost midnight by the time they improvised) or because the show was so jam-packed due to the cancelled performances the weekend prior (Dec '10 Blizzard), either way, they definitely did not display their talents well. Hopefully, your visit will include great improvised comedy as well,
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Nikki W.

Yelp
I highly recommend going for a group improv class! I'm a member of a volunteer organization, and we do a class each year. It's something I really enjoy. Even if you are shy and don't think you've got a single comedic bone in you, their class will quickly be able to change that (or at least make you feel that way). The facilitators mix in a variety of small group and large group activities, and are able to tie everything together so it all makes sense with what your organization does. I went in not knowing too many people within my organization and left having made some good friends and better working relationships. I'm really looking forward to taking some of their individual improv classes one day.
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Arline Y.

Yelp
I always go to see the Danger Committee's holiday show. It has become a tradition since I saw them at Ren Fest. I bring along my male lacky (friend) for their Xmas show. I'm glad they perform here - in a nice comfortable atmosphere.
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Alison M.

Yelp
I went to BNW for a Yelp event where we watched The Brave New Workshop Saves the Planet; or Yes We Can, but Do We Have To? I was impressed because the show was actually funny with just a tinge of inappropriate humor, which I can appreciate. They pointed out how oily Megan Fox seems to be (what IS that about?) and had some funny commentary on current events that hit the nail on the head. The show made me laugh, even if most of the jokes appealed to my base humor and my knowledge of Access Hollywood. The only other live theater I've ever laughed at was an Oscar Wilde play, so there was definitely something at BNW that they were doing right. Keep it up and I just might be back!