In 2019, two fearless Valencians, Ferrán Luengo and Javier González, realized that their beloved city had everything—except English-language improv. So, they launched Valencia Improv Playground (VIP) in the hopes of creating a community where locals and foreigners could come together, get creative and share a laugh. They aspired to become a platform where international improvisers could come from all over the world! As the first members trickled in, Rocío Barquilla joined the dynamic duo, bringing with her a spark that would soon ignite the entire group. Slowly but surely, more brave souls (who may or may not have known what they were getting into) joined the ranks. With a growing ensemble of diverse talents and accents, VIP was well on its way to becoming a melting pot of humor and creativity.

But just as the group was finding its groove, the pandemic hit, nearly silencing the laughter. And slowly but surely everyone left VIP.

The group nearly fizzled out, but true to the spirit of improv, a surprise twist was just around the corner. Rocío crossed paths with Adrià Lerma and Catalina Serrano Bucheli, two fellow improv enthusiasts and theater experts who helped breathe new life into VIP.

Revitalized, the group began performing in bars, bringing spontaneous laughter to the unsuspecting public. As word spread, so did their following, with drop-ins and shows drawing more and more people into the community. By 2023, VIP had done more than just survive—it was thriving! With a lineup of shows, workshops, comedy open-mics and collaborations that kept growing, they answered the call of their enthusiastic community by launching the School of Improv. This move firmly established VIP as Valencia's hub for improv in English.

In 2024, with a sprinkle of magic from Andrew Haller, Laura Banks and friends, VIP didn’t just evolve—it leveled up! Transforming into The Playground, it became much more than just improv. Now, it’s a full-blown entertainment powerhouse, bringing together improv, acting, and comedy under one vibrant roof. But The Playground isn’t just about putting on shows; it’s a community where everyone is welcome, where creative exploration is the secret ingredient, and where authenticity, experimentation and love are not just encouraged, they’re mandatory.

From cozy bars to grand theaters, The Playground has turned Valencia into a city where spontaneity reigns supreme, acting is given a fresh twist, and laughter is not just heard—it’s felt in the bones. Here, the next best night of your life is always just one improv scene away! Whether you’re on stage or in the audience, The Playground is where you can let loose, be yourself, and maybe even discover a new side of you that’s been waiting for the perfect moment to take center stage!