P.I.E. Program

Perform Regularly in a Tight-Knit Improv Ensemble for 4 Months

For Leela‑trained improvisors who want more stage time, serious reps, and a committed team, plus a clear path toward becoming a paid independent ensemble at Leela.

Next Audition (In-Person)

  • Date: Sunday, August 30, 2026
  • Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Location: Leela Improv Theatre, 309 N Boylan Ave, Raleigh, NC
  • Eligibility: Completed Improv 1, 2, 3, 4, and at least one of 5a, 5b, or 5c at Leela
  • Spots per ensemble: 8 performers (adults, 18+)
Apply for the August 30 Audition

Proven Track Record

Leela has produced over 120 Performing Improv Ensembles in San Francisco, which have gone on to create dozens of independent improv teams.

We’re now bringing this proven ensemble system to Raleigh.

What Is the P.I.E. Program?

Leela’s Performing Improv Ensemble (P.I.E.) Program offers improvisors the rare chance to train and perform as part of a committed ensemble over four consecutive months.

Under the guidance of a highly experienced improvisational theatre director, P.I.E. members rehearse and perform together regularly, building trust, artistic range, and a shared audience.

Auditions are scheduled seasonally so that:

  • New members can join,
  • Current members can take breaks or pursue other projects,
  • Ensembles can stay committed over time and grow into tight‑knit, high‑quality performing teams.

Each ensemble is audition-based and limited to 8 adults (18+).

What You Get Each 4‑Month Season

As a P.I.E. member, you receive:

  • Directed ensemble training
    2-hour rehearsals every other week for four consecutive months with an experienced Leela director.

  • Stage reps in real shows
    Perform in at least 3 Leela‑produced shows per season in front of live audiences.

  • Professional materials
    Ensemble photo shoot plus actor resume template and examples, so you look as professional as you perform.

  • Committed community
    A consistent cast to grow with, instead of random jams or one‑off groups.

  • Pathway forward
    A clear route toward becoming a paid independent ensemble at Leela and within the Triangle improv scene.

Investment

The P.I.E. Program is an improv training program, not just a performance slot.

  • Program contribution: $235 per 4‑month season
  • That breaks down to less than $15 per week for directed rehearsals, professional resources, and multiple shows.

Your contribution helps cover:

  • Rehearsal and performance space
  • Marketing and management
  • Director’s fees
  • Photo shoot
  • Other administrative costs that make the program sustainable

P.I.E. Work‑Study: Production Manager

Each Performing Improv Ensemble includes 1 work‑study Production Manager position.

  • Discount: 25% off the program contribution
    • Work‑study rate: $176.25 per 4‑month season
  • Role: Support P.I.E. promotion and production (helping with logistics, communication, and audience-building).

You can apply for the Production Manager role directly inside the online P.I.E. audition form.

How to Audition

Leela is searching for playful, honest, committed, intelligent people with strong improvisational acting skills to form several new Performing Improv Ensembles (P.I.E.).

To be considered:

  1. Confirm eligibility
    • You are 18 or older.
    • You have completed Improv 1, 2, 3, 4, and at least one of 5a, 5b, or 5c at Leela.
  1. Complete the online P.I.E. audition form
  1. Prepare and upload:
    • Headshot: JPEG or PNG file
    • Actor Resume: PDF file (use the provided editable templates if helpful)
  1. Attend the in‑person audition
    • Date: Sunday, August 30, 2026
    • Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
    • Location: Leela Improv Theatre, 309 N Boylan Ave, Raleigh, NC

To participate in the P.I.E. Program, you must meet all requirements, attend auditions, and be cast in an ensemble by the directors.

Headshot & Resume Examples

To support your application:

  • View an example headshot below.

  • Download an editable Actor Resume template here:

Please export and submit your resume as a PDF file.

P.I.E. Program FAQs

What is the purpose of the P.I.E. Program?
To provide structure, production support, and advanced training for Leela students who want meaningful improv performance experience, with the eventual goal of becoming paid independent ensembles at Leela and within the Triangle improv scene.

What are Performing Improv Ensembles?
Audition-based ensembles (capped at 8 people) who train and perform Leela’s signature style of improvisation together, season after season.

How long is the commitment?
Each commitment is four consecutive months.

What happens at the end of the 4‑month season?
All participants audition each new season. Seasonal auditions:

  • Allow new members to join
  • Give current members the option to take breaks or pursue other projects
  • Keep ensembles tight‑knit, high quality, and able to build their own consistent audiences

Why am I expected to pay?
P.I.E. is an ongoing training and performance program, not just a show slot. The contribution each season helps cover rehearsal and show space, director’s fees, photo shoot, marketing, and the administrative work required to keep the program running.

When is my agreement and contribution due?
If you are cast, your Ensemble Commitment Agreement and contribution are due within 24 hours of being notified by phone or email. If they are not completed in that window, your spot may be offered to an alternate. A final cast list is sent once all members have completed both.

Can I do other projects at the same time?
Yes, as long as they do not conflict with Leela commitments. This is an ensemble process; missing rehearsals or shows affects everyone. After your four‑month commitment, you can choose to take a break and later discuss recommitting with the Artistic Director.

What are the rehearsal requirements?
Ensemble members rehearse 2-hours every other week for four consecutive months.

What if I get sick or need to miss rehearsal?
Life happens. If you need to miss, let your director know as soon as possible so the ensemble can plan around your absence.

Can I arrive late to rehearsal?
We value your time and ours. If cast, do not arrive late. Repeated lateness is unprofessional and disrupts the process. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to each rehearsal. Being late more than twice may result in removal from the ensemble without a refund.

When and where is our first rehearsal?
Your first rehearsal will be scheduled the week following auditions, based on your ensemble’s regular rehearsal day and time, at Leela Improv Theatre in Raleigh.

When is the photo shoot?
The ensemble photo shoot will be scheduled after casting and communicated by your director.

When are our shows?
Each ensemble performs in at least 3 Leela‑produced shows per season. Specific dates are listed in the online P.I.E. audition form.

Am I expected to promote the shows?
Yes. Promoting your shows helps build your audience, strengthens the community, and makes performing for a full house far more rewarding