For a comedy studio built on listening and acceptance, a new credential now backs up that philosophy with formal training. Third Space Improv, a St. Augustine creative hub, has earned the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), signaling a concrete step toward making improv accessible to more people.
Founded in 2023, the studio at 200 Malaga Street #7 hosts weekend comedy shows, adult improv classes, workshops, private immersive events, and kids’ summer camps. To qualify for the certification, at least 80% of its front-facing staff completed autism and sensory training, gaining practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent guests and reducing barriers to participation.
Becoming a Certified Autism Center™ gives us the knowledge and tools to better understand, welcome, and support neurodivergent people in our classes, shows, and community.— Amy Angelilli, Owner, Third Space Improv
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“At Third Space Improv, inclusion isn’t just something we say—it’s something we have to actively practice,” says Amy Angelilli, owner of Third Space Improv. “Becoming a Certified Autism Center™ gives us the knowledge and tools to better understand, welcome, and support neurodivergent people in our classes, shows, and community. Improv is built on listening, acceptance, flexibility, and making space for one another, and this certification helps us live those values more fully. Everyone deserves a place where they can feel comfortable being themselves, connecting with others, and experiencing the joy of play.”
The training from IBCCES, a credentialing body with 25 years of experience in autism and neurodiversity education, is designed to strengthen staff confidence, improve communication, and proactively remove obstacles to attendance. For creative venues, that preparation can translate into stronger community ties and repeat visits from families who might otherwise hesitate to participate.
“Creative spaces can provide meaningful opportunities for people to connect, express themselves and build confidence, and ensuring these experiences are welcoming to autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals can make a meaningful difference,” says Myron Pincomb, CEO and Board Chairman of IBCCES. “Third Space Improv’s commitment to autism and sensory training demonstrates the value of preparing staff to better understand different needs and create an environment where more people can participate, connect and enjoy the experience.”
Accessibility at the studio extends beyond staff training. The venue offers a designated accessible parking space out front, a street-level entrance, an accessible restroom, and a stage with a ramp and handrail—features that ease access for performers and attendees alike.
By completing the CAC process, Third Space Improv joins a larger initiative led by the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce to help the county earn the Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) designation. That status signals to visitors that a range of local entertainment, recreation, and lodging options have met consistent accessibility standards.
The studio is also listed on the IBCCES Accessibility App™, a free download that offers real-time guidance on certified and sensory-inclusive locations. Families can additionally find Third Space Improv through AutismTravel.com and AccessibilityCertified.com, both free directories of vetted organizations.
About Third Space Improv: In addition to its improv school and weekly comedy shows, the studio offers team building, corporate workshops, and leadership training. More information is available at www.3rdspaceimprov.com, and the studio can be found on social media @3rdspaceimprov.
About IBCCES: The organization provides certification programs in autism, neurodiversity, and accessibility, operating in over 125 countries and delivering training in 8 languages. Its initiatives include the Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) and Autism Certified City™ (ACC) designations, which require a facilities review and completion of autism and sensory training across multiple sectors.
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Why it matters: This certification is more than a badge—it reflects a broader shift in the creative industry toward intentional inclusion. As St. Johns County pushes for the Certified Autism Destination™ designation, Third Space Improv’s commitment helps ensure that families and neurodivergent individuals can find welcoming, supportive spaces to play, connect, and create without added stress.
