Countdown Improv Festival
The Countdown Improv Festival is an annual improv comedy festival held in Ybor City, Tampa, Florida, dedicated exclusively to trio, duo, and solo improv performance. It is organized by Countdown Arts, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and takes place across five nights and five stages. The festival is known for its performer-focused approach, with no headliners or stratification among participants; programming includes nightly shows, workshops selected by performer vote, jams, and a discussion summit on the business of improv.
History
The festival was founded by Kelly Buttermore and Justin Peters, who perform together as the duo From Justin to Kelly. It began with 50 groups in its first year and has grown to over 200 performers across multiple stages. The 2026 edition marks its 10th annual installment.
Significance
The festival is described as the world's only improv festival entirely devoted to trio, duo, and solo improv comedy, representing a distinct niche focus within the broader improv festival landscape.
Need current dates or submissions? This is a historical archive. Visit improvfestivals.org for live festival listings.
How to Reference This Page
The Improv Archive. (2026). Countdown Improv Festival. Retrieved September 21, 2026, from https://improvarchive.org/festivals/countdown-improv-festival
The Improv Archive. "Countdown Improv Festival." The Improv Archive, 2026. https://improvarchive.org/festivals/countdown-improv-festival.
The Improv Archive. "Countdown Improv Festival." The Improv Archive, 2026, https://improvarchive.org/festivals/countdown-improv-festival. Accessed September 21, 2026.
The Improv Archive is a systemically maintained repository. The archive itself acts as the corporate author.