Sofia International Improv Fest

Overview

The Sofia International Improv Fest is an annual improv festival held each September in Sofia, Bulgaria, organized by ShiZi Improv Theatre. Founded in 2016 by Zlatin Tsvetkov - a pioneer of Bulgaria's improv scene who co-founded the country's first improv company and took part in Sofia's first improv show in 2009 - the festival brings together international improv artists and teachers for workshops, nightly performances, and mixer shows.

The festival features 12-hour masterclass workshops for advanced performers, nightly mixer team performances on ShiZi's 130-seat stage, and themed after-parties at their adjacent comedy club. Recent editions have been organized around themes such as "Genres" (2023), "Deep Dive" (2024), and "Organic Improv Real People in Real Time" (2026). The 2026 edition features teachers from the US, Spain, Finland, and Bulgaria, including faculty from The Groundlings, ImprovBoston, Boom Chicago, and The Second City.

Workshops

The festival offers intensive 12-hour masterclass workshops led by international teachers. Past workshop topics have covered genre-based improvisation, physicality, emotional connection, and the psychology of creativity.

Sources

• Sofia International Improv Fest - Official Site
• BTA - 7th Sofia International Improv Fest
• BTA - Sofia International Improv Festival to Feature Top Improv Artists from Three Continents
• Festival Finder - 7th Sofia International Improv Festival
• AllEvents: Sofia International Improv Fest 2026
• Sofia International Improv Fest on Facebook