Summer 2026 Cave Match!

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For years, Cave Match has been one of the most exciting traditions at BATS Improv, giving student improvisers the chance to build a team, create an original format, and perform live at the Bayfront Theater. Cave Match is where new voices, new formats, and future Mainstage talent are born, and a whole lot of fun is had along the way!
This summer, Cave Match returns as part of the BATS Improv 40th Anniversary celebration and it is unlike anything we have done before! Selected student teams will compete in July in a single elimination tournament for the chance to advance to the Mainstage in August, where they will face off against BATS Company players in weekly matchups as part of the BATS Mainstage shows. The competition all leads to an exciting Micetro™ finale, where one improviser will be crowned champion.
This special event brings students and Company performers together on one stage, giving audiences a front row seat to (and the final say in) who rules the stage at BATS Improv. Big risks, bold formats, unforgettable performances, and a summer long celebration of creativity and community make this the biggest Cave Match yet!
WHO: Teams must have four improvisers (no more, no less). Teams may not add members after the tournament begins, so teams are encouraged to prepare in case substitutions are needed. BATS will provide a lightician and front of house staff for each show. If your team requires a musical improviser for the July shows, you must arrange and provide one. Improvisers may not submit for multiple teams. Preference will be given to students currently studying at BATS.
Teams may include:
• Students or alumni who have completed at least one Foundation 6 class or have equivalent performance experience
• Coaches, guest players, or BATS Company members
• Improvisers from outside BATS are welcome to participate
WHEN: Sundays in July at 7pm; Saturdays in August at 8pm
Show dates: July 5, 12, 19, 26, August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
The competition for student teams begins in July. If selected, your team will perform one Sunday in July. The winning teams from July will compete in August against BATS Company members as part of the MainStage Company show.
Applications are due Friday June 12, 2026. Tournament schedules will be announced by June 22, 2026.
WHERE: The Bayfront Theater
HOW MUCH: The cost is $186 plus fees per team. Included in your ticket is 1-hr of coaching with a BATS coach (usually priced at $225/hr). Each team member also receives one comp ticket per show.

We have community standards, a conflict process, and a COVID prevention policy in place. Agreement/acceptance of these policies is required to participate in BATS classes. Please use the links above to access and read these policies, and check the boxes during registration to indicate your agreement/confirmation.

Refunds / Transfers / Exchanges

All BATS Improv class registrations are final, and we’re not able to offer refunds or transfers once you’ve enrolled.

Canceled Classes

If we need to cancel a class due to low enrollment, illness, or other surprises, you’ll receive a class credit good through the end of the calendar year. Credits can be applied to any BATS Improv class for which you've satisfied the prerequisites, or gifted to a friend or family member.

Accessibility at Fort Mason

• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking: Fort Mason provides accessible parking spaces and entrances for visitors with disabilities.
• Accessible restrooms: ADA-compliant restrooms are available throughout the facility.

If you need specific accommodations or have unique accessibility concerns, please email us at [email protected] and we'll be happy to assist.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

BATS Bayfront Theatre, 2 Marina Blvd, Bldg B, 3rd Floor, San Francisco, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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