UpDating Brings Live Blindfolded Comedy to Champaign
Creators Brandon Berman and Harrison Forman brought their touring dating show to The City Center on Wednesday.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Comedy
Live Poll
Would you participate in a live, public dating show to meet a potential partner?
The live comedy show UpDating arrived at The City Center in Champaign this week, featuring onstage blindfolded dates and audience interaction. The unique performance allows participants to meet new people through a structured game format.
Why it matters
The show offers a modern spin on social interaction by putting the vulnerability of dating on display for a live audience. By blending comedy with real-time matchmaking, the performance creates a unique experience for both the participants and the crowd.
The show boasts over six million total social media followers across its platforms. The live event maintains a runtime of approximately 90 minutes.
The players
Brandon Berman
He is a co-creator of the UpDating live show who has toured over 120 cities.
Harrison Forman
He co-founded the interactive dating performance in 2018.
Lea Henderson
She is a show participant who traveled from Terre Haute, Indiana, to join the event.
Vilhelm Sigaard
He is a participant who took part in the onstage dating experience after being invited.
The details
Creators Brandon Berman and Harrison Forman invite audience members onstage to participate in blindfolded dates and answer intimate questions. Participants then vote on their physical attraction and decide whether to continue the date in front of the crowd.
Timeline
October 21, 2026: The event took place at The City Center.
2018: Berman and Forman created the show.
Industry Dynamics
The production is scaling its reach by partnering with ITV America to adapt its live dating format into a television series. This transition from a niche live stage show to a wider broadcast format reflects the growing media demand for interactive and unscripted content.
Local residents interested in future participation should keep an eye on the tour schedule for the show's planned return to Champaign. Tickets for these live performances provide direct access for those looking to experience the dating game firsthand.
The takeaway
The show demonstrates how digital social media followings can be successfully converted into profitable touring live entertainment. Prospective attendees should be prepared for a highly interactive experience that blends traditional dating with public performance.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest events in the Comedy scene in Champaign.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Daily Illini.
Live Poll
Would you participate in a live, public dating show to meet a potential partner?
