If you’ve ever watched Whose Line Is It Anyway? and thought, “Man, I wish that kind of comedy happened here,” good news: it does—every week—in Coeur d’Alene. In this episode of North Idaho Experience, we sat down with Noah Johnson, founder of Levity Theatre, to talk about improv, why it matters, and how this growing troupe is building a culture of laughter in North Idaho.

What exactly is improv?

Improv—short for improvisation—is unscripted, collaborative theater. Instead of memorizing lines, performers create scenes on the spot, listening closely to each other and building with the famous “yes, and…” mindset. The result is comedy that’s fresh, real, and unrepeatable. A great improv show feels like the best stories from real life: surprising, a little chaotic, and weirdly perfect.

Noah emphasizes something counterintuitive: improv isn’t about trying to be funny. It’s about being authentic, present, and generous. When performers listen first and add to each other’s ideas, the laughs happen naturally. That’s why improv is also a powerful life skill—teaching presence, adaptability, and teamwork.

Short form vs. long form (and why both are a blast)

Levity Theatre performs both short-form and long-form improv:

• Short-form shows are packed with quick, game-based scenes—think audience prompts, bells that force “new choices,” and structured chaos that keeps you laughing every few minutes.
  
  
• Long-form shows build entire stories from a single suggestion—sometimes even an improvised musical where performers make up the lyrics and plot while a live musician crafts the score in real time. (Yes, it’s as wild—and fun—as it sounds.)
  
  

Each show is different, which means you can bring friends one week and come right back the next for a totally new experience.

Where to see a show (and bring the whole crew)

Levity runs regular improv shows in Coeur d’Alene, with family-friendly comedy and rotating formats. They also offer membership perks, classes, and special events throughout the year. For the latest calendar and tickets, check their Upcoming Shows page. You’ll also find details about 4-week class sessions and periodic workshops if you’re ready to hop on stage yourself. 

Learn improv: accessible, welcoming, and seriously useful

If the idea of being on stage makes your stomach flip—that’s normal. It’s also a great reason to take a class. Levity’s Intro to Improv focuses on listening, confidence, and creative collaboration, not “being the funniest person in the room.” Their classes run in four-week sessions and are designed for beginners through budding performers. You can start with Learn Improv on their site, then pick a class that fits your schedule.

Pro tip: improv is fantastic for teens, professionals, and anyone who wants better communication skills. You’ll laugh a lot—and you’ll leave with practical tools for everyday life.

Team building that people actually ask to do again

Levity doesn’t just play to public audiences—they bring improv to corporate team building as well. Sessions are high-energy, hands-on, and wildly inclusive. Instead of watching a lecture about communication, your team practices it—learning to support each other, take smart risks, and stay present under pressure. For companies, it’s a win: stronger culture, better collaboration, and a shared experience people will talk about for months. Explore options on Levity’s Corporate page.

Why Coeur d’Alene needed this (and what’s next)

North Idaho is full of stunning scenery and outdoor adventure—now it’s also home to an improv scene with genuine momentum. Levity’s goal is to secure a permanent downtown venue and expand offerings: more shows, more classes, and a lively community hub for live performance. Until then, they’re keeping the calendar full and the laughs rolling with weekly shows, rotating formats, and community appearances.

Whether you’re planning a date night, wanting a family-friendly outing, or looking to shake up your team’s next offsite, Levity Theatre is the kind of local gem that makes living here even better.

Ready to experience it?

• Browse Levity Theatre’s upcoming shows and classes and grab tickets
  
  
• Want help planning a North Idaho move—or need local recs before a night out? Contact the North Idaho Experience team and we’ll point you in the right direction.