Born out of the improvisational comedy craze that swept the U.S. in the ‘80s, BATS Improv is the longest-running improv theater in Northern California, and every weekend it serves up new plays, competitions, and even musicals. The award-winning theater focuses on “long form” improv, which means shows are geared toward creating a coherent story line, rather than just 2-minute bursts of weirdness (though the audience is encouraged to yell out ideas throughout the performance). On some nights, teams compete for trophies and bragging rights. Main Company shows are Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm; student performance ensemble shows are Sundays, at varying times each week. Reservations and discount tickets are available through the website; remaining tickets are sold at the box office the night of the show.