DSI Comedy Theater

Founding (2001 to 2003)

Zach Ward, a Chapel Hill native who had studied improv in Chicago, began producing improv events in the Triangle area in 2001. He formalized DSI Comedy Theater in 2003 with classes beginning April 1. Early performances were nomadic, taking place wherever space was available.

Permanent Venues (2005 and Later)

In 2005 DSI moved into a loading dock space at Carr Mill in Carrboro, establishing a dedicated home. The company later relocated to 462 West Franklin Street in Chapel Hill, occupying a three-floor, 7,000-square-foot space that housed performance rooms, classrooms, and event space. DSI ran a Comedy Training Center with classes in improv, stand-up, and sketch, and operated IMPLOSION, a college outreach program.

North Carolina Comedy Arts Festival

DSI produced and hosted the North Carolina Comedy Arts Festival, which grew into one of the largest annual improv festivals in the United States.

Closure (2017)

In July 2017 founder Zach Ward resigned following social media allegations of sexual harassment, wage discrimination against women performers, and creating a toxic environment. DSI announced its closure shortly after, and the theater permanently closed on August 28, 2017.

DSI Comedy Theater built a multi-level training center and performance venue that served as the primary home for improv, sketch, and stand-up comedy in the North Carolina Triangle for more than a decade. Its North Carolina Comedy Arts Festival connected the Triangle to the national improv community.