The Hideout Theatre Presents
AcademicImprovLeague
Grades 6–8 · Fall 2026
“Get in the Game”
How It Works
You’ll Learn To…
About the League
When?
The AIL Festival & Competition will be held on the morning of Sat, Dec 5 (location TBA). We suggest approximately 10 rehearsals over the course of the semester to prepare, so likely starting in mid-September.
Who?
Any school or organization who wants to send a troupe of middle-grade students to compete is welcome to participate. We recommend groups of 6-12 for the final performance. If your school has more than 12 eager players, you could bring two troupes to compete. If your school wants to start an improv club but doesn’t have a teacher or parent able to run rehearsals, let us know and we might be able to provide a coach.
What?
At the AIL Festival & Competition troupes will be given 20-25 minutes to perform 8 randomly selected improv games. A host from The Hideout will set up the games and help keep things on track. A panel of professional improvisers will score each performance and give the groups notes after the show. Students will also have a chance to take fun workshops and socialize with players from other schools at the Festival.
How Exactly?
The Hideout Theatre will provide a 10-week rehearsal curriculum for groups to use to get familiar with A) The 24 possible performance games and B) The 6 judging criteria (Have Fun, Be Brave, Yes AND, etc.). We will also offer a train-the-trainer session for troupe coaches, advice on how to set up a show for friends and family at your school (or possibly even at The Hideout), and a mid-semester bonus workshop with a Hideout instructor.
How Much?
This is the first year of AIL, so it’s a bit of a test run. That said, the current plan is to charge no more than $275 per participant for the semester of rehearsals and the Festival & Competition day. We will be offering need-based discounts as well.
Tell me more!
Check out our freewheeling FAQ for more info.
Competition Games Pool
“Get in the Game” — Fall 2026
Ready to Join?
Ask your school contact how to get your troupe involved. Or reach out to The Hideout Theatre for more information, email classes@hideouttheatre.com
The Hideout Theatre · Austin, TX · Since 1999