At just $5 to $12 for a student ticket, a show at ImprovBoston is often cheaper than a movie. And you can either choose between one stop on the T, a few stops on the bus, and several minutes on foot, so distance is no object. One of the area’s leading improv theaters, ImprovBoston features different shows every Wednesday through Sunday. Wednesday brings “The Comedy Lab,” Saturdays offer more wholesome fare with “The Family Show,” and once a month you’ll even get the “Naked Comedy Showcase.”  Those who are obsessed with “The Breakfast Club” or just synth-pop and blue eye shadow should check out “John Hughes High” with its ’80s high school theme. Meanwhile, Stewart and Colbert fans might enjoy “MOSAIC,” a political and pop cultural musical featuring such heart wrenching laments as the ballad of the “Republican in Cambridge.” If you feel the performers aren’t doing the material justice (and are willing to spend over $15), the theater also offers classes.

40 Prospect St. Cambridge. Central Square (Red).