Fundamentals of Improv Level 1 - Multi-Week Class
Welcome to the wonderful world of improv comedy!
Could you imagine yourself:
More confident?
Connecting better with other people?
Comfortable in unexpected situations?
Making up things on the spot?
We know that you can, and this class will show you how! Learn the fundamentals of improv comedy with two skilled and supportive instructors. We’ll play some very silly games, learn how to create characters, explore techniques to collaborate and create as a team and even perform full improvised scenes together!
Of course, you won’t be facing this new experience alone – you’ll be learning these new skills with a team of new improvisers, and by the end you’ll be ready to put on a showcase for your friends, family, and fans!
About this class:
Over six weeks, you will learn the fundamentals of improv comedy through a combination of warm-ups, games, exercises, and practice scenes. Highwire Improv’s expert instructors will be with you every step of the way, holding the space to make silly choices, explore comedy and learn how to create art together. No performance, acting or comedy experience is required – but by the end you will be confident and ready to show off your new skills!
Each class session will run from 12-2 p.m. ET, with optional time available after class to discuss and debrief:
Week 1 (March 9): Intro to Improv
Week 2 (March 16): Base Reality
Week 3 (March 23): Physicality
Week 4 (April 6): Characters
Week 5 (April 13): Emotion and Relationship
Week 6 (April 20): Putting it All Together
Week 7 (April 27): Student Showcase!
Note: no class on March 30!
This class is in-person, but Highwire Improv also offers online classes – check out our page for other offerings!
About Your Instructors:
Jonathan Monroe (he/him) has been a teacher in the Maryland school systems for over 10 years. He has been an improviser in the Baltimore area for 8 years. Learning the craft from the Baltimore Improv Group, he has been a part of indie troupes; Throwing Lobsters, Hostel, and Important Screws. Jonathan has been directing a monthly school-aged driven family-friendly show, The Playground, once a month at Highwire Improv. He enjoys long form and musical improv as well as mentoring the next generation of improvisers.
Barry Wright (he/him) is a improviser, teacher, and technology professional. He is a co-founder of Highwire Improv and currently serves as President of the Board. He has trained in improv since 2017, including at Baltimore Improv Group, Hoopla Impro, and numerous online workshops. He performs with groups including Improv Jeoparty, Topiary, Important Screws, Whatever This Is and Dreamweaver. Barry lives with his wife Kristen and their three cats and is always happy to chat about improv or start a Google Doc.
About Highwire Improv:
Highwire Improv is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization based in Baltimore, Maryland. Our mission is to steward a community of artists committed to growth, collaboration, joy and justice — in Baltimore and around the world — through improvisational theater.
