On Sunday, the Improv Comedy Club at Rivercenter closed its doors after 25 years in business. Formerly called the Rivercenter Comedy Club, the downtown spot has hosted big acts and local comedians alike, but business declined in recent years, according to reports.
Owner Colleen Barshop told the San Antonio Express-News she decided to close the venue as she neared retirement and its lease was set to expire. On the club's last open night, Barshop said past employees and local comics showed up to say goodbye to Improv.
"I didn't know it was going to be such a big deal," Barshop said.
Barshop is also tied to Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club at Park North. She has stepped back from daily operations there, but is still present as a consultant. She sold 50 percent of that business to Dallas-based Improv.
