Preparations for a massive celebration are nearly complete at The Miller, tucked away in the back streets of London Bridge. The modest story that began in 2006 with training sessions by a few old school friends on the upper floor of a pub has today grown into the United Kingdom’s first improv theatre and largest improv school. Hoopla is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a huge festival that will run throughout Spring 2026!
This festival does more than just look back on the past; it also brings the present and future of improv to the stage. The fact that names who once took their first steps on the Hoopla stage are now shining on the West End, on TV and on radio is the greatest proof of how fertile this kitchen has been.
Under the Stage Lights: Highlight Shows
The festival programme is so packed that it’s possible to witness a different highlight every night. Here are some unforgettable events you should note in your diary:
Return of the Legends: The festival opens on 10 April with RH & Friends, who have been part of the Hoopla family since 2008. Immediately after, pioneering groups of the genre such as Grand Theft Impro and The Maydays – the heavyweights of improv theatre – will take the stage.
The Peak of Musical Improv: While the Olivier Award-winning Showstopper! team returns with a special 60-minute show, Abandoman and MC Hammersmith, who blend hip-hop with improv, will show how to dance with words.
Thematic Shows and Laughter: If you’re wondering how an opera can be entirely improvised, Impropera is just for you. If you love mystery, CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation – where even the actors don’t know who the killer is – is not to be missed.
The Power of Diversity: The UK’s first all-Black troupe Do The Right Scene and the pride of Asian talent Comediasians offer not only cultural representation but also some of the city’s best-selling shows.
Legendary Guests: Suki Webster, partner of Paul Merton, will take the stage with her own star cast for “One Night Only”, while international clown superstar Julia Masli will add colour to the festival with her new sketch night “Next Level Sketch”.
What’s Cooking in the Kitchen? Workshops and Community Spirit
Hoopla is not just a place to watch; it is a community to be part of. In addition to performances, special 20th Anniversary Workshops are being organised as part of the festival. There are options for every level, from Level 1 courses for beginners to advanced classes such as sci-fi B-movie improv.
If you want to get the stage dust on yourself, the Mega Jam on 27 April is perfect for you! In this huge open improv session, you can play games shoulder-to-shoulder with professionals and encounter surprises inspired by Hoopla’s history.
“Improvisation is a party, and at Hoopla everyone is invited to this party.”
This organisation, which has managed to remain independent for 20 years, continues to blend laughter with professionalism at The Miller in London Bridge (wheelchair accessible!).
