Be brave, even if you’re scared! I understand you’re taking a brave step taking your first improv class, because I’ve done it. And then I took a break and did it again. I’ve got your back, and I am honored that you chose me whether it’s your first time doing improv or your thousandth!
What improv is. I call it “a spontaneous artistic expression, usually from an audience prompt or suggestion.” It can be anything, and doesn’t HAVE to be funny, though it often is. What I love about improv is that it’s a team game. It works best when people collaborate to create something that has never been seen before and will never be seen again.
Don’t try to be funny. The humor in improv comes naturally from the situations you create together, not from pre-planned jokes. Please don’t come into the class trying to be funny. Trust me. You’ll get more laughs by following the guidelines of improv than you will ever get trying to be funny.
There are no mistakes, only opportunities. “Failing” often leads to the best and funniest moments in a scene, and I use mistakes as a tool for learning. Don’t feel like you need to apologize to me for a “mistake,” as it helps me learn something, too.
Be a team player. Improv is a highly collaborative art form. Your primary goal is to support your scene partners and “make them look good,” not to steal the spotlight.
Safety. We’ll start each class with a safety check to make sure that everyone is ready to go. If there is anything that is too far outside your comfort zone, just say, “STOP,” and the instructor will stop the scene and move on, no questions asked.
Listen actively. Pay close attention to what your scene partners and instructor are saying and doing, so you can build on their “gifts” (offers of information).
Embrace the “Yes, And” principle. Accept the reality your partner establishes and then add new information to it to move the scene forward.
Don’t overthink or plan ahead. The point is to be present and react in the moment, trusting your instincts. Don’t come in with pre-loaded “bits.”
Be ready to be silly from the first second of the first class. Be ready to play and to be silly from the jump.
Nerves are normal. Almost everyone else in the class is nervous too, and it’s okay to feel that way. We try to cultivate a welcoming, supportive environment to help you push through the nerves and perform, anyhow. I ask that folks step just outside their comfort zone so that the zone is still just one step away, but don’t do anything you’re uncomfortable with.
Everyone learns differently. Don’t hesitate to give feedback to your instructor during the course without interrupting. The only way instructors get better at teaching is with feedback. If you don’t understand a term or phrase, the odds are good that someone else in the class doesn’t understand it, either, so feel free to ask!
Have fun. Improv is adults playing make-believe. It’s fun, and I want you to have fun with it.
🎒 Practical Preparations
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. You will be moving around a lot, standing for long periods, and might do physical activities, so wear something casual and flexible. You don’t need to dress to impress.
Stay hydrated and energized. Bring a water bottle and maybe a small snack for energy, as classes can be physically and mentally draining.
Bring a notebook (optional). While you’ll spend most of the time on your feet, you might want to jot down key concepts or “nuggets of wisdom” during breaks. This is something I wish I’d done at the start of my improv career.
Arrive early. This gives you time to settle in, meet some classmates, and avoid feeling rushed or stressed.
Silence your phone. Be present and avoid distractions. The class environment thrives on focused attention.
🏢 Specifics
Parking. There are a few parking spaces in the rear of the building. Check out our FAQ here for more parking tips!
Entrance. The main entrance is in the rear of the building under the awning.
Questions. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out in advance of the class!
