[Headliner Show] ASSSSCAT! The UCB’s Signature Improv Juggernaut! #HIF2026

A staple of the NYC improv scene, ASSSSCAT! is a show that has featured the best improvisers in NYC since it was started by UCB founders Amy Poehler, Matt Walsh, Ian Roberts and Matt Besser.

What is ASSSSCAT?

It starts with a group of improv comedians from film & TV taking the stage with a special guest monologist. After getting a suggestion from the audience, our monologist shares off-the-cuff thoughts, feelings, and true stories inspired by your suggestion. The improvisers then spin this monologue into a series of scenes that will show you why ASSSSCAT is one of the longest running improv shows in the world!

Previous NY monologists include: Mark Hamill, Alan Alda, Tina Fey, Keegan-Michael Key, Ellie Kemper, Kevin Bacon, Jessica Williams, Phoebe Robinson, Kathleen Turner, Paul Shaffer, Daniel Dae Kim, Conan O’Brien, and more!

• “The hardest we’ve laughed in a long, long time.” -Out Magazine

• “Among improv people today, the gold standard is a group called ASSSSCAT.” -Vice Magazine

Note: Headliner Shows for the Hartford Improv Festival are ticketed separately from other shows. Festival Show Passes, Saturday Day Passes, Sunday Day Passes, and Performer Passes are do not include Headliner Shows. Performers will be issued a discount code for Headliner Shows.

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