Performing Arts❯Comedy❯Improv

Sharon Gan, founder of Heart Strings Mandarin, will lead children and their parents as they sing, move, play instruments, and tell stories in Mandarin, English and American Sign Language. All levels of Mandarin fluency from absolute beginners to native Mandarin speakers are welcome.

Program presented in partnership with Friends of the Tigard Library.

This fall and winter, L’École Buissonnière invites you to a monthly Café Littéraire, a French conversation class rooted in literature, seasonal culture, and thoughtful exchange.
Inspired by French cafés as places of ideas, debate, and imagination, these gatherings offer a slow, intimate approach to the French language.
Each 90-minute session opens a thematic doorway through short literary texts, guided conversation, and gentle creative practices.
The focus is not performance or fluency at all costs, but presence, curiosity, and pleasure in thinking together.
Each month highlights a seasonal cultural moment in France, including traditions that shape language and collective imagination.

Toussaint: Memory & Invisible Connections
La Toussaint : honorer les absents
Explore French traditions of remembrance, the symbolism of flowers and cemeteries, and the ways literature, photography, and seasonal rituals keep memory alive across generations.

Cited by The Portland Mercury as "One of the funniest (and most educational) comedy shows in town": Comedy, queer history, and dangerously delightful shenanigans collide at Be Gay Do Crime.

July features a Know Your Rights presentation by community activist Frances Portillo, with scenarios acted out in sections by the featured BIPOC improv troupe Brown Sugar.

**This presentation is specifically geared towards allies wanting to know more about how to support their immigrant and BIPOC neighbors and community members.**

Also featuring the talents of local comedians and performers, including:

• Stand-up comedy from Lindy Tongol (Host of qu eer, BIPOC show House Party)
• Improv from Brown Sugar
• Stand-up from Julia Corral (host of Comedy in the Park, House Party, and Bruja-ja)

July's show will be hosted by Jane Dillinger and Jenna Britann.

Tickets are GAYAF — give as you’re able, friend. Ticket sales will go towards compensating the hosts and performers. All additional tips collected during the show will support a different local community non-profit organization each month.

(Please note, this show is about history and adult themes, and adult content is often included, including themes of violence, racial discrimination, homophobia, sexual violence, sexual content, drug use, mature language, etc. There are also "dishonorable guests" whose comedy or artistic material could include similar themes. Recommended for ages 14+ and parental discretion for those under age 18.)

Enjoy a comedy show about Portlanders living in Portland. Kickstand's signature style of improv is performed by a rotating cast of incredibly talented players

Rotating Cast featuring:
Afrita Davis, Chris Williams, Craig McCarthy, Dana Murphy, Diana Kolsky, Eric Simons, Jon Bolden, Justin Himes, Kristen Schier, Mariah Muñoz, Michael Zimmer, Natalie Haddad, Roland Mechanik, Thea Crowley

Trẻ em từ 0-6 tuổi (đi kèm với người lớn) sẽ cùng nhau đọc sách, ca hát, và vui chơi với những hoạt động giúp các em phát triển kỹ năng ngôn ngữ và đọc viết.

Chỗ ngồi tham dự có giới hạn và sẵn sàng phục vụ trên cơ sở ưu tiên cho người đến trước.

Được thực hiện nhờ tài trợ gửi đến The Library Foundation.

Spanish Language & Culture in Northern Spain

What can Asturias teach us about Spain’s history, culture, and identity?

Join us for an immersive summer program in Oviedo, Spain, exploring the rich history, art, literature, and contemporary culture of Asturias. Through cultural experiences, course discussions, and exploration of northern Spain, you’ll examine how Spanish identity has evolved from pre-Roman times to today.

Along the way, you’ll strengthen your Spanish language skills, building fluency, vocabulary, writing, and confidence while engaging with authentic Spanish-language materials and everyday life in Spain.

Designed for students ready to go beyond the typical study abroad experience, this program is ideal for students interested in Spanish language, literature, history, art, culture, and international studies.

Program Dates: June 27–July 30, 2027
Course: SPAN 301, 302, 303 (12 credits)
Prerequisite: SPAN 203 or equivalent proficiency

View Program Details

Tired of your abuela giving you the side-eye when you forget a word? Or maybe just looking for a low-stakes way to dust off your English skills? Whether you're a "No Sabo" kid or a fluent pro, we've got a spot for you!

LULAC Southwest Washington is teaming up with Dandelion Teahouse & Apothecary for a night of zero-judgement conversation. We're swapping the textbooks for board games and tea.

Here's the vibe:

-Practice your Spanish (even if it's just the basics!)

-Practice your English (o si hablas Español y quieres practicar tu Ingés)

-Play games & make friends in a cozy atmosphere.

Come for the practice, stay for the community. Si sabes, sabes!

Search and Destroy (S.A.D. for short) is a multimedia variety show happening on the last friday of every month featuring artists and local leaders sharing their craft and talking about what matters most to them. Through storytelling, live conversations, audience interaction, and heavy doses of honesty and humor, S.A.D. seeks to give hope and to be an entertaining and informative space for all to have fun, let loose, and be reminded that we as a people have the agency and ability to initiate change by working together as one.

S.A.D. was partly inspired by late-night television talk shows and variety hours and follows a similar format: an eye-catching opening number, a charming Emcee willing to play the fool, and a shared evening of dance, music, film, comedy, and conversations/interviews, all loosely tied to a theme of the night. The show ends with a dance party where the audience is invited to join the party on stage.
One of the main goals of each S.A.D. show is to dissolve the separation between artist and audience by directly engaging, conversing, and interacting with the audience, inviting them to participate in their seats as well as on the stage.
 Every show features dance movement, improvisation, visual imagery and soundscapes, conversations and spoken word, and various bits that play with the blurring of boundaries between the scripted and unscripted, all through an honest and humorous lens and the intention to entertain, educate, and inspire. Each episode of S.A.D. showcases different artists and acts than the previous one, guaranteeing that every iteration is unique and can only be experienced once.
S.A.D. is a show for everybody and every body, regardless of their identity, background, age, and anything else used to describe oneself.

*Revenue generated from each show is split evenly amongst the contributing artists

Cupo para 15 niños, edades 3-5, padres y cuidadores. Niños con diferentes estilosy habilidades de aprendizajese reúnen en un ambienteseguro y con mucho apoyo. Niños que necesitan apoyosvisuales/de comunicación,una rutina más predecible omateriales adaptados debidoa una discapacidad motorason bienvenidos.Preinscríbase en [email protected]; podemosenviar materiales a casaantes de cada reunion

Limited to 15 children, ages 3-5, and their parents and caregivers. Kids with varying learning styles and abilities come together in a safe and supportive environment. Children who may need visual/communication supports, a more predictable routine, or adapted materials due to a motor impairment are welcome. Pre-register at [email protected]; we can send materials home ahead of time.

#worldlanguagestorytimes

X-Prov is a fully improvised, never-before-seen episode of the X-Files where you choose the case and your favorite FBI agents solve a brand new mystery. Is the truth really out there?

Remember the X-Files? What if you got to see one more episode, never before seen and never to be seen again?

In X-Prov, the audience decides which X-File agents Mulder and Scully will investigate. This completely improvised homage to America’s favorite conspiracy-laden ‘90s procedural will feature shadowy government organizations, small-town secrets, and at least one unexplainable creature.

Featuring Tessa Waring (as seen in Group Shower) as Scully, Mo Merrill (as seen waiting for the bus on Glisan) as Mulder, and a supporting cast of Kickstand favorites.

So ask yourself: Do you want to believe?

Learn about the process of becoming a citizen. Prepare for your citizenship interview. Study United States history and government for the examination. Classes are taught in English.

Registration information call 503.379.1598, ext 105, or email [email protected]

The Camas Public Library hosts a monthly English Conversation Group on the first and third Tuesdays of the month from 12:30-2 p.m. Attendees will practice speaking, listening and expressing one’s self confidently. Attendees will enhance their language skills in a supportive and engaging environment. For more details, visit CamasPL.org/TSITP.

ASL Game Night at Sign Language Cafe is always an evening of connection, fun, and inclusivity. Gather for an immersive experience that celebrates the Deaf and signing communities. This family-friendly event offers an array of card and board games, including options created by Deaf artists, providing a unique opportunity to explore creative contributions from within the community. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite games to share, fostering a diverse and exciting environment.

The cafe setting provides an accessible and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families and individuals alike to engage in spirited competition, learn new games, and make lasting connections. In addition, the Sign Language Cafe offers a space for Deaf and hearing individuals to communicate and collaborate seamlessly, supporting community bonds through shared interests.

Attending and participating in ASL Game Night, you’ll contribute to a culture of inclusivity and support both CymaSpace’s mission and the wider Deaf community. Join and connect over your favorite games, and help build a more inclusive Portland.

30 phút bao gồm những câu chuyện thích hợp với độ tuổi, những trò chơi ngón tay, và các hoạt động khác bằng cả tiếng Việt và tiếng Anh.

30 to 40 minutes of age-appropriate stories, fingerplays, and movement activities in both Vietnamese and English.

#worldlanguagestorytimes

McLoughlin Hall Classroom (M255) Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 12 – 1pm Spanish Club meets every Tuesday in McLoughlin M255 from 12:00 to 1:00 pm. Open to anyone interested in Spanish conversation about language and culture.

Ever wondered about the origin of the modern Norwegian language? Like most Scandinavian languages, it derives from Old Norse, and modern Icelandic is almost the same as Old Norse. The Old Norse Conversation Group practices speaking Icelandic and talks about culture, grammar and vocabulary, some history and current events. We are not a language class. We are more of a social gathering where Icelandic and Norwegian language origins are explored in an informal and entertaining setting. We meet every 4th Thursday of the month from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at Norse Hall in the downstairs dining area. Anyone interested is welcome to join us. For more information and to join our email list, please contact Nord Njordur F. Winnan at [email protected].

Portland Cantonese Play + Learnonce a month on saturdays | 10:00 am - 12:00 PM | free | SCHThe mission of Portland Cantonese Play + Learn is to connect Cantonese-speaking families by providing a nurturing environment where young children can develop strong language skills and deepen their connection to Cantonese culture. Through interactive language lessons, cultural activities, and community engagement, we empower families to celebrate and preserve their heritage while fostering bilingualism in the next generation.Join us for a once-a month gathering, complete with a language activity, storytime, crafts + open play!Dates:October 18November 22

J Names is one of the area’s longest running improv teams. A prominent comedy supergroup of local comedy veterans whose first names (most!) start with the letter “J”. This is high-quality improvisation you won’t want to miss. Featuring: Jay Flewelling, Jed Arkley, Justin Himes, Jenn Hunter, Jon Bolden, SJ Santa Cruz, Katie Behrens, Craig McCarthy.

All ages welcome, though assume PG13 content.
$15 online / $20 at door

Andrea’s Spanish School will offer Online Spanish Conversation Classes, Levels I and II, from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays Oct. 21, 28, Nov. 4 and Nov. 11 via Zoom. Practice speaking Spanish with a native speaker in a small group of four to seven students. Sessions are built around real talk, not grammar drills. There is no homework and no tests. The cost is $25 per session. Sign up at learnspanishvancouver.com.

Join the Change Through Play Improv studio for an evening of improvisation. The showcases feature students from every level of classes, improvisers from around Portland, and the Founder and staff improvising as well. The showcases are fun and different!. Come see students demonstrating what they’ve been learning. Learn the difference between what beginning improvisers explore versus intermediate and advanced improvisers.

These showcases are VERY supportive and nurturing, and they're designed to let the students publicly show what they've been working on in class, so bring the spirit of support with you.

Come see sets from the Foundations, Intermediate and Advanced Workshop teams. Also featuring a Harold from the special guests: Mouth Stuff.

The evening will close out with a set from 3hree with Eric and Aden Nepom and the Founder, David Koff.

One-year-olds (with a favorite adult) enjoy songs, movement activities, rhymes, books and playtime. This action-packed program engages new walkers in language-based activities. Attendance is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

Multnomah County Library storytimes are supported by gifts made to The Library Foundation.

McLoughlin Hall Conference Room (M226) Thursday, November 12, 2026, 1 – 2:30pm French Club meets every Thursday from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm in McLoughlin M-226. Open to anyone interested in speaking French and discussing language and culture.

Contact Erik Brakstad, (503) 449-0818 or [email protected]

Join Adventures in Spanish in the Community Room on Wednesdays at 10:15 for stories, songs, and movement in both Spanish and English. Due to limited capacity, registration is encouraged for the 4-week session, and drop-ins will be admitted as space allows.18 seats available for children age 0-5. No storytime on Nov 25.

Cult favorites Hopes ‘n’ Prayers returns to Kickstand Comedy with an explosive late-night comedy show that will blow you into a million pieces. Throw out your SSRIs and mainline the dopamine that is Party for the End of the World. Join another favorite indie team for a night of improv comedy, party games, chaotic characters, end-days camaraderie, and whatever the hell else they feel like.

***content warning: guns, violence, sex, language, giant boobs, abstinence, drug use, war (what is it good for), suicide, patricide, matricide, fratricide, misandry, shit and piss, vomit, semen, sexy anthropomorphic animals, depression, addiction, alcohol use, hot carl, two girls one cup, slime, squirt, blood, menstruation, tooth decay, incontinence, impotence, desecration of national monuments, vehicular manslaughter, paranoia, diseases of despair, astrology, anti vaxxing, over vaxxing, neurodivergence, recycling, that thing of when a person on a lime scooter flies off and is mortally wounded, skateboard, huffing, puffing, poppers, whoppers, antiauthoritarianism, flashing lights, being way up on high, petty theft, acab, rippin beers, big tech, artificial insomnia, ménage á trois, peace, love, unity, respect, drunk driving, arson, being in a cemetery after it closes, cannibalism, disney adults, going no contact, uncles and nephews being in a band, bus of life, late stage capitalism, columbine, male loneliness epidemic, 23&me, polyamory, the 2008 financial crisis, microplastics, plastic surgery, running from the law, breaking stuff, little to no respect for furniture, splash zone, osteoporosis, scoliosis, paranormal encounters, blood, sweat, tears, hemorrhoids, neck, back, pussy and crack issues, bill paxton, bizarre allergies, mass extinctions, war on christmas, using the computer, organ theft, broken hearts, huge boats, bodily harm, necrophilia, sexually transmitted infections, buying in bulk, heliocentrism, conspiracies, witches who buy things on amazon.com, pussy hats, hillary clinton jail time, 9/11, buying airline tickets for a discount on 9/11, factory farming, evolution, long content warnings, toxic positivity, party rocking, not being sorry for party rocking, unappealing textures, atheism, misotheism, loving god with no proof, homosexuality, and homophobia.***

Hopes ‘n’ Prayers is Diana Kolsky (The Chris Gethard Show), Lauren Sinner (Night Cheese), and Blade Weedman (Fuckos).

Free ESL classes. The level of the series is determined at the first class. No registration required. For more information, call 503.577.9984.

Browse more English learning classes. Hosted by Goodwill Industries of the Columbia Willamette.

Designed for adults with little to no prior knowledge of English. This class focuses on the English alphabet, basic phonics, numbers and survival vocabulary. Preparing students for Beginner ESL Class.
No class on September 16 or November 11.

Free citizenship classes provided by SOAR Immigration Legal Services. Classes are designed to prepare you for the US naturalization interview and exam. Study US history and civics lessons (128 questions on citizenship exam); improve your English speaking, listening, writing, and reading; practice for the naturalization interview; and review the N-400 application. Classes are taught in English, with resources in Spanish and other languages.

Trẻ em từ 0-6 tuổi (đi kèm với người lớn) sẽ cùng nhau đọc sách, ca hát, và vui chơi với những hoạt động giúp các em phát triển kỹ năng ngôn ngữ và đọc viết.

Chỗ ngồi tham dự có giới hạn và sẵn sàng phục vụ trên cơ sở ưu tiên cho người đến trước.

Được thực hiện nhờ tài trợ gửi đến The Library Foundation.

Contact Erik Brakstad (503) 449-0818 or [email protected]

Unscripted, family-friendly improv right here in Vancouver, Washington!

Tickets $10 + fees. Show two hours plus one 15-minute intermission.

Witness the Magic of Unscripted Shakespeare!

Step into the offbeat world of Love, Shakespeare, where seasoned Portland comedians attempt something audacious: performing a fully improvised Elizabethan play based on your suggestions! Each show is an unpredictable tribute to Shakespeare's comedy, filled with ridiculous twists and spontaneous delights. Follow a merry band of players – former buddies of the great Will himself – as they unravel one of the Bard's “unfinished” gems. Love, Shakespeare is a lively celebration that's equal parts homage and hilarity – a comedic gem not to be missed!

• Friday, November 13, 2026 - 7:30-9:00 PM

• Saturday, November 14, 2026 - 7:30-9:00 PM

One-year-olds (with a favorite adult) enjoy songs, movement activities, rhymes, books and playtime. This action-packed program engages new walkers in language-based activities. Attendance is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

Multnomah County Library storytimes are supported by gifts made to The Library Foundation.

Hot Goss: Rebecca Feldman, Jason Hays, and Jessica Zodrow have been improvising/performing together for years. Their love of pop culture has manifested in their original format — where they recreate a real movie they’ve never seen before. They take what they know (or don’t) about a movie suggested by the audience, fold in classic story tropes, joyous relationships, and filmmaking devices to bring their director’s cut to life. Each performance will feature an opening group from the reputable Portland improv scene.

All ages welcome, though assume PG13 content. $15 online / $20 at door.

For proficient learners interested in advanced grammar and vocabulary in practical exercises.

(Recommended for 0-18 month old children and their caregivers)
10:30AM (lower level) the first Friday of each month

Trying to communicate with your infant presents all kinds of challenges. Beyond reading, singing and talking to them, Baby Sign Language can provide a unique bond. Christina Schabow of the Portland Early Learning Project will lead this program introducing new themes for each program.

This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Lake Oswego Public Library and admission is free, and there is no registration required. The Lake Oswego Public Library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. For more information, contact the Youth Services Librarians at 503-697-6580 or [email protected].

30 of Portland's best improvisers, one totally secret guest host. Every show rearranges the performers into brand-new teams and features a special character host. You won't know who it is until they step out on stage. No two shows are the same, and it's always a surprise.

Past guest hosts have included David Lynch, High School Theater Students, a baby, Tinder Dracula, Waluigi, and many more...who will it be this week? Come and find out.

One-year-olds (with a favorite adult) enjoy songs, movement activities, rhymes, books and playtime. This action-packed program engages new walkers in language-based activities. Attendance is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

Multnomah County Library storytimes are supported by gifts made to The Library Foundation.

Cr1tical Mischief began their RPG-themed improv show in 2014 as Advanced Minions & Mazes performing at Guardian Games. This band of comic adventurers has been entertaining audiences in theaters and Cons in and around Portland for over a decade. With their band of characters and your suggestions, they’ve raised the dead and razed villages. Not always in that order. Come roll the big 20-sided die to shape the action and laugh hard at the Cr1tical Mischief that ensues!

Featuring: Brad Fortier, Erin Cunningham, Bill Cernansky, Merrily Antony, Eric Zipper, Craig McCarty, Meagan Gombart, Wayne Moodie.

Directed by Brad Fortier

• All ages welcome, though assume PG-13 content.
• $15 online / $20 at door.