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Swan City Improv opening a comedy club in downtown Lakeland

The Comedy Cathedral is set to open by spring 2026 with entertainment, classes, and community events designed to keep Lakeland laughing.

Swan City Improv's future building, a white and turquoise painted church with a gray roof and a spire against a clear blue sky.

The Comedy Cathedral will be located northeast of Parlor Doughnuts and Lloyd’s of Lakeland.

Photo by LALtoday

After nearly nine years entertaining Lakeland audiences, Swan City Improv is opening its own comedy club. The group plans to transform the former church at 417 N. Massachusetts Ave. into the Comedy Cathedral by spring.

Swan City Improv founder Nate Fleming said the Comedy Cathedral will host regular shows with an emphasis on improvised comedy, but don’t be surprised if stand-up comics or musicians also take the stage.

“First and foremost, it’s for families to come and laugh,” Fleming said. Performances will range from family-friendly to adults-only, and those interested in learning the craft will also be able to take improv classes.

Three comedians perform on a stage lit with blue and purple lights, in front of a Swan City Improv banner, to a seated audience.

In addition to shows and classes, the Comedy Cathedral will also host community events and offer private rentals.

Photo via Swan City Improv

As for plans for the Comedy Cathedral’s vibe? “There’s something about being in a church,” said Fleming. “We’re building a community around comedy. We want to honor that for sure.”

Building updates begin soon. Until then, find Swan City Improv popping up around Lakeland before moving into its new home.

Editor’s note: Editor Connor has been part of the Swan City Improv team since 2020.

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