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we've been planning and dreaming about this moment for a long time.
welcome back to happier valley comedy!

please read below for details about how we've made our theater as safe and welcoming as possible for all of us.
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HVAC improvements
This year, we invested in significant improvements to our HVAC system to keep our community safer.

One huge change incorporates a new ERV (energy recovery ventilator) into our system. This constantly pulls used air out of the space and replaces it with fresh air from outside. When running at full, all the air in the theater can be totally refreshed every 15 minutes! The energy cost of constantly heating/cooling fresh outside air is offset by the system running used air and new air safely past each other to share temperatures but not contamination (this is the energy recovery in the name). The benefits here should be clear, as the research shows the safest way to be indoors is to introduce as much fresh air as possible.

Additional upgrades also improve airflow by adding extra supply vents (where the air enters the space) in both rooms and also adding an extra return vent (where the air leaves the space) to the classroom. This change:
  • Helps keep both rooms the same comfortable temperature during classes
  • Prevents too much air from blowing onto any one spot in either room
  • Allows more used air to be constantly removed from the space

We also replaced the large return duct in the theater with a simpler, more efficient vent, and we put new HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters in both return vents. This change:
  • Captures particles of all sizes in the air of the room, including bacteria, pollen, mold, and viruses
  • Reduces the overall noise of the system

Finally, we now have small air purifiers with their own HEPA filters in the box office and in each bathroom.

VACCINATED STAFF
All performers, teachers, and staff have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Audience & student guidelines
We are now requiring that our audiences and students are all fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before entering the theater. At this time, masks are not required but will always be respected. We will adjust our safety guidelines based on current new infection rates across Hampshire, Hampden, and Franklin Counties.

SANITIZED SURFACES
Frequently touched surfaces are sanitized before each show or class.

release form
All audience members, students, and staff must sign a one-page voluntary release form upon entering the theater for a show or on their first day of class or rehearsal. This form acknowledges the ongoing possible risk of COVID-19 infection and prohibits entry to anyone experiencing symptoms related to the Coronavirus.
​Click here if you'd like to view the voluntary release form.
click here to email us with any questions or suggestions!

thank you for trusting us with
​your return to the world of other people!

Your joy & ease is Our Mission

    Happier Valley Comedy, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that brings laughter, joy, and ease to Western Massachusetts (and the world) through the principles of improvisation. We serve up the happy through our training center, shows, and professional/personal development programs.
HVC is committed to using the tenets of improvisation as a tool to amplify each person’s authentic voice and creativity in an inclusive, welcoming community inspired and empowered by the diversity of all members.

HVC is committed to these core values:
Follow the Joy and Ease
Assume Good Will
Be of Service
Redefine and Disempower Failure
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Got Questions? Email Us!