HADLEY — Just two weeks ago, the only improv comedy theater in Western Mass., Happier Valley Comedy (HVC) in Hadley, was celebrating its 10th anniversary. Now, there is even more to celebrate as it prepares for the grand opening of its new Dream Theater on Saturday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m.

“When we first brought the idea of expanding the theater to our board in early 2023, part of us wondered if our dreams were too big for our little theater to achieve,” said Pam Victor, HVC founder and head of happiness. “But we should have known our remarkable community’s dreams were just as big as ours.”

The new theater features a fully accessible stage, expanded installed theater seating, and a more professional improv stage. The new expansion is connected to Happier Valley Comedy’s existing space at 1 Mill Valley Road in Hadley. HVC worked with general contractors at Integrity Development and Construction of Amherst and architect Tom Douglas of Thomas Douglas Architects of Northampton.

The grand opening event will feature performances from HVC mainstage casts with musical improv, theatrical longform improv, and true storytelling. After the show, attendees are invited to join in the after-party for snacks, drinks, and community celebration.

Proceeds from ticket sales will contribute to the sustainable continuation of the Equity Fund, which supports BIPOC participation in HVC programming and phase two of the Dream Theater project, including more accessible seating for all bodies, enhanced theatrical lighting and audio systems for a supported visual and auditory experience, and a lobby space to allow more connection-rich opportunities to bolster community.

“In 2015, Happier Valley Comedy was born of a dream to make a living doing what I love,” Victor said. “The opening of our expanded Dream Theater in 2025 means even more people can share in that dream. And now that the hard work of building it is done, it’s time to get on that stage and play.”