Willow Creek Theatre Company

Founding (2020)

Luke Brooks, Lindsay Brooks, and Kaya Schafer founded Willow Creek Theatre Company in January 2020 as Iowa City's first dedicated long-form improv organization. The company incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit shortly after its founding but was prevented from staging public performances when the COVID-19 pandemic closed indoor gathering spaces weeks later.

Launch and Growth (2021)

Willow Creek presented its first public performances in late 2021 as restrictions eased. The company established a home at 327 South Gilbert Street in the Downtown Iowa City District, offering both performances and a leveled Improv Conservatory class series taught by Luke Brooks and other instructors. Willow Creek was recognized by Think Iowa City and the Iowa City Downtown District as part of the city's theatre community and was featured by The Daily Iowan in April 2023 as part of Iowa City's thriving local theatre scene.

Willow Creek Theatre Company focuses on long-form improv and positions itself as Iowa's dedicated improv theatre, serving Iowa City performers and audiences through ensemble performances and a structured leveled class series.

Lady Franklyn Improv is one of Willow Creek's resident improv teams, performing regular shows at the theatre. Pope Cactus and Cool Shoes are additional house teams, with Cool Shoes specializing in short-form improv. The company also produces staged theatrical works, including a production of Hedwig and the Angry Inch, alongside open-mic nights and improv workshops such as The Documentary. The venue at 327 South Gilbert Street in Iowa City hosts multiple performances weekly.

Co-founded by Luke Brooks, Lindsay Brooks, and Kaya Schafer in January 2020, Willow Creek Theatre became Iowa City's dedicated improv venue after delays caused by the pandemic pushed its operational launch to late 2021. Brigid Martin joined as programming director in early 2022, expanding the theatre's offerings. The nonprofit's mission centers on compensating artists above standard industry practices while maintaining free community workshops. Past members have advanced to larger improv institutions including Upright Citizens Brigade and The Second City.