Improv Productions (formerly Whacko Productions) was the brainchild of Wade Jackson, established in July 1997 while Wade was a Diploma in Drama student and president of the University of Auckland Comedy and Improv Company. Wade has produced, publicised and performed in every Whacko Production show. Whacko Productions has developed into one of the most reputable production companies in New Zealand, known for its high quality productions and always eye-catching publicity. Whacko Productions produced Comedy Wars, the 11th Annual NZ University Comedy Competition before launching the initial season of The Improv Bandits in 1997. In 1998 Whacko Productions produced The Toss, a hilarious mix of sketch and stand up comedy which was part of the international Laugh! festival plus the second season of The Improv Bandits. Also in 1998 Wade premiered the criticaly acclaimed play 3 People at the Cinema at SiLO theatre. The 1999 International Laugh! festival saw Wade produce no less than three shows including his own solo show The Blonde Ninja. Wade was also responsible for establishing New Zealands first ever smoke-free comedy venue at The Horse & Trap. Other comedy shows were programmed to perform at this venue including the Poor, White & Trashed, a Laugh Inc venture. Wade was a member of Laugh Inc that performed throughout the country in 1999 including its regular venue at the Horse & Trap. The 1999 season of The Improv Bandits was the biggest one yet with their national and international tours on top of their weekly late night Auckland show. Improv Productions continues to strive for producing high quality New Zealand art in both the comedy and theatre arenas.