CHUCKLE MONSTERS: IMPROV FOR KIDS, BY KIDS
The Chuckle Monsters is a fully improvised, interactive theatre show that invites kids to shape the story, fuel the fun, and sometimes even influence the outcome. It’s part chaos, part magic, and all about connection through play.
The show first hit the stage in September 2023, supported by Foundation North, who funded the creation of our original mascot and monster costumes—designed by the brilliant Sarah Burren. What began as a playful experiment in youth-led performance has grown into a meaningful way to introduce children to the principles of improvisation: trust, presence, and co-creation.
Our debut cast came from the Covert Teens program, and that foundation has remained at the heart of everything we do. Chuckle Monsters is a show made for kids—by kids. And for grown-ups who haven’t forgotten what it means to play.
Each show is different. Kids in the audience offer suggestions, shout out twists, dance in their seats, and help shape the world unfolding in front of them. There’s no script, no safety net—just monsters, mayhem, and moments made together.
Our Core Values
- Connection
- Imagination
- Co-Creation
- Celebrating Ideas (even the weird ones)
Characters You’ll Meet Onstage
Big Red – The lovable red monster with a big heart and even bigger feet
Max – Sporty, confident, and usually trying to take charge
Molly – The kind heart of the group with a love of hoop skirts
Snax & Slax – Twin energy, double trouble. One dreams of snacks, the other just dreams
Jax – Cool, witty, and often one step ahead
Broc – One half of the Gigglepuff brothers. Wise and well read
Ollie – The other Gigglepuff. Brings warmth, wonder, and a quiet kind of mischief
Our Motto
Improv-powered play. Created by kids. For everyone.
THE COVERT THEATRE: WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
The Chuckle Monsters are proud to call the Covert Theatre home. Based in Auckland, the Covert is New Zealand’s only theatre dedicated to improvisation. It’s a space built for experimentation, laughter, and the kind of creative risk-taking that live theatre thrives on.
The Covert has been championing improv for over two decades, developing artists of all ages and creating space for fresh, original work. The Chuckle Monsters was born from this culture—bold, collaborative, and joyfully unpredictable.
Our show is a Covert production through and through. It exists because this theatre believes in giving young people the tools to take the stage—and the trust to make it their own.
TEEN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM: CREATORS IN THE MAKING
The Covert Teens program is designed for young people aged 13–17 who are ready to explore improvisation, creativity, and performance in a safe and supportive environment. The program runs every school term for ten weeks, giving teens the chance to develop real stage skills while building friendships and confidence. More information about the program can be found here: Covert Teens | Improv Performance Workshop | Covert Theatre
We offer any teen the opportunity to audition for the Chuckle Monsters cast. Cast members rehearse weekly in the six weeks leading up to a new season, and also take part in recording original songs, developing characters, and shaping new show formats as the brand evolves.
It’s not just about stage time. It’s about helping young performers become creative collaborators, strong communicators, and confident humans.
Whether they stay for a term or become part of the monsterverse, every teen who joins walks away with tools they’ll carry long after the lights go down.