About Our Classes

Our improv workshops offer something for everyone—from curious beginners to seasoned performers looking to sharpen their skills. Each session is designed to focus on a specific aspect of improvisational theater, such as character development, scene work, physicality, ensemble building, or long-form technique.

With a rotating lineup of topics and instructors, these workshops provide a dynamic and flexible way to grow your improv practice. Whether you're exploring improv for the first time or refining advanced techniques, you'll find a supportive, collaborative environment to play, learn, and connect. Come for one workshop or build your skills over time—our offerings are crafted to meet you where you are and help you level up.

 

Workshop objectives:
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1. Explore new improv tools and techniques in a focused, low-pressure setting

2. Strengthen core skills such as listening, reacting, and making bold choices

3. Develop characters and scenes with greater clarity and confidence

4. Build ensemble awareness and improve group collaboration

5. Gain exposure to a variety of styles and formats.

6. Foster spontaneity, creativity, and playfulness on stage

Foundations connects people to the core skills of improvisational theatre. Students will refresh and learn the key principles of improv including: listening, collaboration, and creation. Through a variety of games, students will learn how to get out of their head and get comfortable creating characters and scenes in preparation for long form improv.

Students will learn:
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1. To trust impulses: embrace spontaneity and letting go of self-judgment.

2. Storytelling skills: crafting compelling narratives that captivate audiences.

3. To create engaging characters: bringing unique, dynamic personalities to life.

4. Performance techniques: mastering the essentials of staging and delivering a performance.

5. Team communication: collaborating seamlessly with others to build shared stories.

6. To express movements: using the body to enhance storytelling and connecting with audiences.

The Conservatory program is perfect for people who are committed to long form improv and are looking to take their skills to the next level. Improvisers will focus on complex scene work and character development as they continue to deepen their skills and techniques in different styles of long form improv.  Students will be grouped in troupes of 6 to 8 individuals who will showcase their skills in two of Instant Theatre's produced student shows during the term.

Students will learn:

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1. About mastering long-form techniques: deepening understanding of advanced improvisation principles and formats.

2. To Create and sustaining complex characters: developing layered, dynamic characters and bringing them to life in captivating scenes.

3. To expand performance range: building confidence and versatility by performing across a variety of improv styles and formats.

The Cohort Program is for experienced improvisers looking to refine their individual skills and deepen ensemble work. Through challenging scene work, advanced techniques, and personalized feedback, students will strengthen both their performance and group dynamics. Placements are reviewed to ensure student's skill sets match the advance class, and full refunds are given if a student is not accepted. Ideal for those serious about pushing their improv to the next level. Students will be grouped in troupes of 6 to 10 individuals who will showcase their skills in one of Instant Theatre's produced shows at the end of the term.
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Students will learn:

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1. To refine individual performance techniques with a focus on nuance, clarity, and presence

2. To deepen ensemble collaboration through advanced group exercises and scene work

3. To create and sustain complex characters within dynamic, layered scenes

4. To apply advanced improvisational principles in a variety of formats and styles

5. To receive and integrate individualized feedback for continuous growth

6. To strengthen confidence, adaptability, and precision on stage

In this program, a troupe of improvisers will collaborate with an experienced coach to design and refine their own unique long-form improv format. Participants will receive guidance on creating compelling narratives, establishing strong group dynamics, and designing tailored rehearsals for their original format. In addition to developing their format, the troupe will learn the essential skills needed to produce a polished and engaging performance, including working with venues, marketing strategies, and audience engagement. By the end of the program, participants will have the tools and confidence to bring their original improv show to the stage.

Students will learn:

 

1. How to conceptualize, structure, and refine a distinctive long-form format that reflects their troupe's style and personalities.

2. To build stronger group dynamics, improve communication, and foster a cohesive team environment essential for successful improv.

3. To gain practical knowledge of the steps required to produce a show, including planning, scheduling, and technical considerations like lighting and sound.

4. To explore effective methods for promoting their show, reaching their target audience, and building a loyal fan base.