Today we’d like to introduce you to Saurabh Pande.
Hi Saurabh, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
The Coronation Theater: The Home for Improv Comedy shows in Houston has been dedicated to providing top quality improv comedy in the city since 2023.
Located in the East End neighborhood, it features unique weekly shows, curated classes, and elite corporate development workshops.
Our shows include a variety of improv styles: short-form improv games like those on “Whose Line is it Anyway?” or “Wild ‘n Out,” and long-form improv scenes that delve into relationships and characters.
Our 5-level training program is perfect for anyone looking to learn comedy, make new friends, or break out of their routine.
The Coronation has spent the last 6 months building out a brand new space featuring a full bar, kitchen and patio. Larger theater space, extra classrooms. Our new home at 3100 Canal St. Unit 100F 77003 is set to open in June 2026
Owner Saurabh Pande:
Saurabh Pande is a native Houstonian. He started improvising when he was 14 at his high school’s improv comedy club. After high school, he performed with his college team, Glaundor, which won the National College Improv Tournament in 2013. He was also performing with ComedySportz Houston at the time.
In 2014, Saurabh moved to Chicago to pursue the craft further. A recipient of the prestigious Bob Curry Fellowship eventually led him to being cast on their National Touring Company. He was also on a house team at the IO theater and a main company member of the critically acclaimed Improvised Shakespeare Company.
After Chicago, he moved to Los Angeles to continue improvising and pursue a film career. Appearing on Chicago Med, The Chi, Paper Girls, as well as a handful of commercials.
In 2021, he moved back to Houston with the goal of opening a theater for sketch comedy and improv comedy In June 2023, the doors of The Coronation Theater finally opened.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
One of the challenges for improv in general is explaining what exactly it is to a larger audience. When you hear “standup” you immediately know what you’re going to get. With improv, it isn’t always as clear, despite such a robust history in the US. Getting them there was a challenge in the beginning, but once an audience sees a show or someone takes a class, they are hooked.
We’ve been impressed with The Coronation Theater, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Coronation is a place where kind, creative and curious individuals can come together to create and find community both on and off stage. Polished comedy with a human touch. We are proud of and constant pursuit of inclusivity and fostering creative growth and exploration
What makes you happy?
Seeing individuals experience the craft of improvisational theater and having that moment where they get to be their true authentic selves. For me personally sitting in the theater, a class, or at the bar and watching a community thrive.
Pricing:
- $18 per show
- FREE Intro to improv class every Thursday
- 295 for level 1 – improv basics
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.TheCoronationTheater.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/thecoronationtheater
- Facebook: @thecoronationtheater
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-coronation-theater-houston?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)
- Other: https://linktr.ee/thecoronationtheater
