Welcome to Impulse Theatre, Christchurch’s home of long-form improvisation. Our shows range from full-on comedic, to gritty drama, musicals, sci-fi, soap operas, and everything in between. We run improvisation classes, and have regular guest teachers from NZ and around the world.
We’re really proud of all the awesome shows we’ve produced. Do you have a favourite, that you want to see again? Let us know!
Check our Facebook page for details, or visit the Humanitix site for tickets.
Upcoming shows
- Down To Earth – An improvised sci-fi comedy (26 June)
An improvised sci-fi comedy Inspired by shows like Resident Alien, 3rd Rock from the Sun, and Mork & Mindy, Down To Earth is a warm-hearted improvised comedy set in small-town New Zealand. In a quiet community where everyone knows everyone, one resident is hiding a very unusual secret. As friendships form, misunderstandings grow, and local dramas unfold, the show explores what it really means to belong, connect, and be human. Like all our shows, everything is completely made up on … Read more
Where to find us
Our current show home is at the beautiful Piano in the central city. We also run shows at other venues across Christchurch, with something for everyone, and you’ll find us at various festivals around the country.
Workshops and classes
We run weekly adult classes and also have masterclasses with guest teachers from around NZ and the world, and other special workshops.
- Lisa Lynn: 7 – 9 August 2026
FIVE workshops with London improv legend, Lisa Lynn! It’s a full weekend of improv magic and music with Lisa Lynn, starting with a Friday evening workshop, two half-day workshops on the Saturday and then a full day of musical improvisation on Sunday. The Saturday and Sunday workshops are open to anyone, and you can pick and choose – or book multiple workshops and save! We are able to offer some reduced-price places for people who would otherwise be unable to … Read more - The Magic of Mask – Sat, 11 July
A 4-hour workshop in mask, physical theatre, and expressive performance Mask is a beautiful, expressive, and often-hilarious artform. By hiding the face and limiting the voice, the mask invites us to drop into the body, stay rooted in the moment, and discover surprising new ways to connect with partners, audience, and the world of the scene. This workshop is for performers of all kinds: actors, devisers, theatre-makers, improvisers, physical performers, and anyone curious about the power of mask. Whether you’re … Read more