Discover Classes. Earn 10% Rewards.

Improv Classes Near Me

Unlock your creativity and boost your confidence with improv classes. Learn the art of spontaneous storytelling, sharpen your communication skills, and experience the exhilaration of performing in a supportive and fun environment.

Improv Classes Coming Up in NYC

See all Improv classes in NYC

Tuesday Improv - Night Time Special (Class + Coaching)

Kissin Improv See all classes by this school @ ​210 Central Park S, New York, NY

Experience the art of improv with one of the most renowned performers in the country at Kissin Improv. Enhance your public speaking skills, increase your social interactions, and have a good laugh in this personalized class taught by an improv master. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to jump-start your improv skills.

(70) All levels 16 and older
$99
Attend
+990 pts
Gift it!

Sunday Afternoon - Performance Improv

Kissin Improv See all classes by this school @ ​210 Central Park S, New York, NY

Experience the thrill of live performance in this immersive improv course. Join experienced improvisers as they guide you through classic exercises and new forms, helping you become the best performer you can be. Push your limits, hone your skills, and get ready to take the stage.

(70) All levels 16 and older
$75
Attend
+750 pts
Gift it!

New York Improv Theater Jam Session

New York Improv Theatre (8 Improv) See all classes by this school @ 318 W 53rd St, New York, NY

Open to all levels - This is part class, self-enrichment, networking event, and rehearsal for bigger and better things (team formations etc). But our real focus is having fun.  Professionals from all walks of life - actors, comedians, lawyers, financial wizards, etc - gather together for the funnest happy hour event in New York City, and now the class is online with drop in students from around the world (we even had Norway, India and Australia...

(74) All levels 16 and older
$50
Attend
+500 pts
Gift it!

Improv 4 Teens Times Square NYC

New York Improv Theatre (8 Improv) See all classes by this school @ 318 W 53rd St, New York, NY

Unlock your creativity, strengthen public speaking skills, and build self-confidence in this dynamic Improv Comedy course for teens. Join us in the heart of Times Square NYC and get ready to have a blast while developing valuable life skills. No experience is necessary, just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to say "YES! And..."

(74) All levels 13 - 17 years old
$50
Attend
+500 pts
Gift it!

Intro to Improv

Improvolution See all classes by this school @ 115 MacDougal St, New York, NY

Unleash your creativity and build strong connections through the art of improvisation. Join Improvolution's introductory course and discover the power of teamwork, fun-filled games, and a character-based approach to unlock your inner improviser. Get ready to be amazed as you effortlessly dive into the world of improv and witness its transformative impact on your life.

(65) Beginner 18 and older
$50
Attend
+500 pts
Gift it!

Improv Classes Coming Up in Los Angeles

See all Improv classes in Los Angeles

Acting for Adults

The Actors Circle See all classes by this school @ 11282 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA

Unleash your creative potential and develop your acting skills with our comprehensive curriculum at The Actors Circle. From scene study to character development, our classes for adults offer a dynamic and supportive environment where you can explore various techniques and build a strong foundation in acting. Join us and discover your unique way to shine on stage and screen.

(35) All levels 17 and older
$54
Attend
+540 pts
Gift it!

Off-the-Cuff: Comedy Improv (Beginning)

Los Angeles City College See all classes by this school @ 855 N. Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA

Unleash your spontaneity and wit in a dynamic environment where creativity knows no bounds. Join us to explore the art of improvisational comedy and hone your comedic timing, all while enjoying a supportive and collaborative atmosphere. Sharpen your comedic chops and discover the joy of thinking on your feet.

(818) Beginner 18 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$129

5 sessions

Gift it!

Off-the-Cuff: Comedy Improv (Advanced)

Los Angeles City College See all classes by this school @ 855 N. Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA

Unleash your spontaneity and wit in a dynamic improvisational comedy workshop that will sharpen your comedic timing and creativity. Dive into the world of comedic improvisation with seasoned instructors who will push your skills to new heights. Embrace the unpredictable and hone your ability to think on your feet in this exhilarating course.

(818) Advanced 18 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$129

5 sessions

Gift it!

Improv Level 1

The Miles Stroth Workshop See all classes by this school @ 1078 Lillian Way, Los Angeles, CA

Discover your comedic voice and gain confidence in this immersive improv course at The Miles Stroth Workshop. Learn to react authentically and stay "out of your head" while improvising with honesty and freedom. Join us for a transformative experience in a safe and vaccinated environment.

(1) All levels 18 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$330

8 sessions

Gift it!

Improv + Communication Skills for Women

The Engaging Educator See all classes by this school @ 704 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA

Looking for your voice? Start to find it with us. As women, we tend to find ourselves overthinking and trapped in our heads, focusing in on how we ‘should’ sound, what a strong communicator looks like, what answer would be perceived as the best one. And the best one often is, be you. In this class, we’ll take improv-based and public speaking activities to the next level and apply them to communication – whether that’s interpersonal impromptu...

(401) All levels 18 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!

Improv Classes Coming Up in Chicago

See all Improv classes in Chicago

Improv, Games & Risk Taking

Piven Theatre Workshop See all classes by this school @ 927 Noyes St, Illinois City, IL

Unlock your creativity and ignite your passion for theater with this dynamic class at Piven Theatre Workshop. Discover the renowned Piven Technique through engaging theater games and improvisation in a supportive ensemble setting. Perfect for those seeking to unleash their artistic potential and explore the world of performance.

(1) Beginner 18 and older
$225

6 sessions

Attend
+2250 pts
Gift it!

Improvisation for Beginners

Discovery Center See all classes by this school

You play theatre games & exercises designed to develop spontaneity, communication, flexibility and awareness. Recommended for actors, comics, and non-performers interested in bringing more spontaneity and humor into their lives. A fun way to get to know others.

(294) Beginner 16 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$79

3 sessions

Gift it!

Improv and Scene

Piven Theatre Workshop See all classes by this school @ 927 Noyes St, Illinois City, IL

Join senior teacher Joanne Underwood at Piven Theatre Workshop for an immersive class where students prepare and rehearse scenes from contemporary plays. Through improvisation and games, students will deepen their understanding of characters and relationships, exploring the impulsiveness of improvisation while remaining respectful of the script. No prior experience is required.

(1) All levels 18 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$325

6 sessions

Gift it!

Improv and Games for the Stage

Piven Theatre Workshop See all classes by this school @ 927 Noyes St, Illinois City, IL

Unlock your inner performer and experience the sheer joy of play with Piven Theatre Workshop. Discover new and perfect old skills in a fun and supportive environment, culminating in an open workshop for friends and family. Join this ensemble-building class for an unforgettable experience on stage.

(1) All levels 18 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$250

7 sessions

Gift it!

The Good Humor Class: Improv, Comedy & Connection

Piven Theatre Workshop See all classes by this school @ 927 Noyes St, Illinois City, IL

Unlock the power of humor and enhance your communication skills with a blend of comedy, improv, and theatre games. Drawing inspiration from iconic sources like Second City and SNL, this class offers a unique approach to connecting with others through laughter and play. Discover techniques that elevate your interactions and bring out your inner comedian.

(1) All levels 18 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$225

6 sessions

Gift it!

Improv Classes Coming Up Online

See all Improv classes Online

Advanced Film Acting 210

Acting School for Film and Television See all classes by this school @ Virtual Classroom

Take your acting skills to the next level in this class designed for advanced and professional actors. This course offers challenging scene work, improv exercises, and multiple takes to help refine performances and expand your range. Perfect your monologues and learn valuable industry tips on headshots, reels, and networking.

(62) Advanced 12 and older
$125

3 sessions

Attend
+1250 pts
Gift it!

Tuesday Improv - Daytime Special (Class + Coaching)

Kissin Improv See all classes by this school

Learn the art of improv from one of the country's most experienced performers at Kissin Improv. Gain valuable skills for presentations, public speaking, and social situations while having a great time. All levels are welcome, with personalized instruction from a renowned master of improvisation.

(70) All levels 16 and older
$99
Attend
+990 pts
Gift it!

ONLINE Fun with Improv

Fun w Improv. Improv Now. See all classes by this school @ Virtual Classroom

Unlock your creativity and boost your confidence with an exciting and interactive course that will transform your public speaking skills. Join us at Fun w Improv. Improv Now. and discover the joy of improv, whether you're an actor, a newbie, or simply looking for a fun and engaging experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to unleash your potential!

(45) All levels 16 and older
$5
Attend
+50 pts
Gift it!

Improv for Beginners or Non-Actors

Out Of Your Head Studios See all classes by this school

Step out of your comfort zone and tap into your creativity with fun, interactive improv games! You’ll boost confidence, reduce anxiety, and improve communication skills—all in a supportive and engaging environment. Whether you're a beginner or just looking to try something new, this class offers a great way to enhance spontaneity and have a blast.

Beginner 18 and older
$25
Attend
+250 pts
Gift it!

Musical Improv - Accompanied by a Professional Pianist

Kissin Improv See all classes by this school

Unleash your inner musician and comedic genius in this dynamic class where you'll craft hilarious lyrics and melodies on the fly. With guidance from a seasoned pianist, explore a variety of techniques including rhyming, narrative approaches, and song structure, culminating in the ability to improvise entire musicals from scratch. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a novice, join us for a fun-filled journey into the world of musical improv!

(70) All levels 16 and older
$60
Attend
+600 pts
Gift it!

Improv Classes Coming Up in Boston

See all Improv classes in Boston

Improv Level 5

Improv Asylum See all classes by this school @ 200 State St, Boston, MA

Becoming a improv ninja means getting your reps. And we’ll give them to you in the penultimate level where you’ll work with your director to identify your strengths, work on your weak spots and overall work on making you the most versatile improvisor you can be. Notice we said director instead of instructor? That’s because Level 5 is the first-part of the end of our training center. This is where you and your class start to develop your Level...

Advanced 19 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$325

8 sessions

Gift it!

Improv Level 3

Improv Asylum See all classes by this school @ 200 State St, Boston, MA

You’ve done some great work in the earlier levels and now you want to play and push yourself a little more? Well, this is the mid-point of your journey. You’re doing scenes, you’re playing games, but now you’re focusing more on being able to play different characters and not just yourself! We play with how you walk, how you talk, and all sorts of other ways to quickly generate characters for improv and beyond. Also, hey — Now you can audition...

Intermediate 19 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$325

8 sessions

Gift it!

Improv Level 2

Improv Asylum See all classes by this school @ 200 State St, Boston, MA

Liked what you did in Level 1?  Either way, our Level 2 class builds off of the fundamentals introduced in Level 1 and gets you playing right away with more scenes, introducing a bunch of different point of view tools to encourage you to tap into your greater comedic potential. Prerequisite: Level 1 or valid experience at a comparable Improv Training Center. (Let us know what your experience is before enrolling in level 2 if you haven’t...

Intermediate 19 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$325

8 sessions

Gift it!

Improv Classes Coming Up in Washington, D.C.

See all Improv classes in Washington, D.C.

Improv for All

Washington Improv Theater See all classes by this school @ 1420 Columbia Road NW, Washington, DC

Improv For All workshops are high-fun, low-stress classes designed to show you how improvisers create spontaneous, off-the-cuff theater. Our enthusiastic and friendly instructors work to make sure everyone is able to participate in a playful and trusting atmosphere.

All levels 18 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
Free
Gift it!

Improv Classes Coming Up in Atlanta

See all Improv classes in Atlanta

Comedy Workshoppe Level 1

Jeff Justice Comedy Workshoppe See all classes by this school @ 3652 Roswell Rd NE, Atlanta, GA

Discover your inner comedian and learn how to write and deliver hilarious stand-up routines at the Comedy Workshoppe. Whether you dream of stepping on stage or simply want to improve your public speaking skills, this class is the perfect opportunity to unleash your sense of humor in a supportive environment. Join us on Monday evenings for an unforgettable night of laughter at The Punchline, Buckhead.

Beginner 17 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$599

7 sessions

Gift it!

IMPV 101: Intro to (Long Form) Improv

Action Show Studios See all classes by this school @ 1561 McLendon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA

In this 8-week course, you’ll spend 3-hours each week with a UCB trained instructor learning the fundamentals of long form improv comedy. At the end of this (and all) course(s), you and your classmates will perform in a showcase where you will demonstrate you’re new skills in front of a live audience! You’ll learn: The principles of “Yes, and…”, active listening, and scene partner support. How to utilize physicality and emotion...

Beginner 18 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$249

8 sessions

Gift it!

IMPV 201: Game of the Scene and Advanced Game Technique

Action Show Studios See all classes by this school @ 1526 DeKalb Ave NE, Atlanta, GA

In this 8-week course with UCB trained Josh Warren, you’ll spend 3-hours each week learning how to find the game of the scene, and how to utilize game to heighten and intensify the comedy of your scenes. Game is what makes your scenes funny, and it is typically approached as arising from the first unusual thing that occurs after you have established your base reality. This course will help you to: Recognize the first unusual thing. Establish...

Intermediate 18 and older
This class isn’t on the schedule at the moment, but save it to your Wish List to find out when it comes back!
$199

8 sessions

Gift it!

Reviews for Improv Classes

Improv Classes are rated 4.5 stars based on 1,866 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

  • Tuesday Improv - Night Time Special (Class + Coaching)

    Reviewed by Daniel B. on 8/26/2024
    Carl is friendly and professional and a great teacher. I had a great experience!
  • Tuesday Improv - Night Time Special (Class + Coaching)

    Reviewed by Edgar L. on 7/17/2024
    Great
  • Off-the-Cuff: Comedy Improv (Beginning)

    Reviewed by Melissa A. on 7/14/2024
    Mike was an excellent instructor, what a fun time! I learned so much!
  • Tuesday Improv - Night Time Special (Class + Coaching)

    Reviewed by Skye C. on 5/23/2024
    Really enjoyed this class! Carl was a fantastic teacher. The group was fun and welcoming. Highly recommend.
  • Improv, Games & Risk Taking

    Reviewed by SCOTT J. on 4/17/2024
    Amazing Instructor
  • Tuesday Improv - Night Time Special (Class + Coaching)

    Reviewed by Katelin T. on 1/22/2024
    Carl is beyond wonderful! This is the best class I've ever taken. He is incredibly knowledgeable and supportive. I was a novice to improv and he made me feel comfortable yet pushed me to the next level. Cannot recommend highly enough!!
  • Intro to Improv

    Anonymous review on 7/15/2023
    Great foundational course in that it introduces the concept of improv: history and evolution of the practice and then propels you right into practice. The instructor was compassionate, inclusive and fun. She fostered a support amongst the group so we could relax and have fun. Definitely recommend!
  • Off-the-Cuff: Comedy Improv (Beginning)

    Reviewed by Nathalie F. on 2/27/2023
    This improv class was great and a lot of fun! Mike the instructor was very experienced, explained things well, and made class comfortable for beginners like myself. Class was relaxed and friendly. No experience or acting interest necessary. Would definitely recommend it.
  • Intro to Improv

    Reviewed by Lou S. on 11/16/2022
    This was so much fun! Great class!
  • Tuesday Improv - Daytime Special (Class + Coaching)

    Reviewed by jessica d. on 9/9/2022
    I had a lot of fun making my wall hanging! It was a great way to spend a weeknight and I am planning to decorate my home with my creation.
  • Intro to Improv

    Reviewed by Charlotte O. on 8/26/2022
    Michael was incredible. If you’re unsure whether or not improv is for you - definitely take this class. It’s less daunting than you think in your head. Everyone else is just learning too and the structure of the class is really fun and engaging and puts you out of your comfort zone just the right amount! 100% get out of your head and take this class :)
  • Acting for Adults

    Reviewed by Laurie F. on 3/9/2021
    I was so nervous going into this class as a complete novice. Within minutes, I felt at home. Both the instructor (especially the instructor) and the other classmates were warm, non-judgmental, and open. I felt energized as a person and informed as a performer. Needless to say, I have already signed up for the same class next week! 10 stars if I could! Thank you!
  • Tuesday Improv - Daytime Special (Class + Coaching)

    Anonymous review on 12/19/2019
    Carl is a very generous, fun and kind teacher. This was my very first improv class and he made it an experience I want to repeat! I learned alot in one class thanks to his dedication to the art. Thank you Carl! Geneviève
  • Off-the-Cuff: Comedy Improv (Beginning)

    Reviewed by Kayla H. on 7/25/2019
    Very patient and understanding teacher. Great demeanor for teaching and the class is down to earth. People from all walks of life are in it no pretenses, just having fun. Challenging but fun.
  • Acting for Adults

    Reviewed by Glenn J. on 6/4/2019
    I really enjoyed it I got a lot out of it. It was a great experience plus it was fun.
  • Improv 4 Teens Times Square NYC

    Reviewed by Ryan F. on 1/6/2019
    I had a great time and learned a lot at the class. I am looking forward to coming to another class. I live over two hours from the class, but it was so worth the drive!
  • Acting for Adults

    Reviewed by Pavlina R. on 7/13/2017
    I was happy with the class. I think I need to improve my listening skills. Thank you.
  • Off-the-Cuff: Comedy Improv (Beginning)

    Reviewed by Jack S. on 10/16/2016
    Lots of fun! Mike is a great instructor.
  • Advanced Film Acting 210

    Reviewed by Karen Gomes on 9/19/2016
    I really loved this class! Mark is an outstanding teacher, and I learned so many things about on-camera work that I never knew before. I highly recommend it!
  • Off-the-Cuff: Comedy Improv (Beginning)

    Reviewed by Katelyn A. on 2/7/2016
    The teacher Mike was really easy going- not intimidating at all. The rest of the class was really fun and it made for a very quick 2 hours! i wish the class was more than 4 days.

Discover the Best Improv Classes Near Me

Improvisational theatre (also known as improv) is a form of spontaneous ensemble theatre. Improv is oftentimes comedic in nature but is always unplanned and unscripted. Actors (also referred to as players) engaging in improv will create the scene as it unfolds. They form dialogue, action, storyline, and characters through collaboration in real-time. Some improv games, however, allow players to determine the general parameters of the scene ahead of the beginning, such as the setting or situation the characters they are developing will find themselves. 

Improv is an old art form, with its Western roots dating back to ancient Rome. The first documented improvisations took place at the Atellan Farce of 391 BC. These farces were masked improvised comedy performances. Characters were decided beforehand, but all dialogue was improvised. Later, improv would be used by performers throughout the world who would take to the streets to show off their quick, comedic thinking. 

It wasn’t until the 20th century that improv took a professional turn. Various styles of improv have emerged: improv games (short form), improv scenes (long form), and improvised plays (narrative improv). Improv comedy clubs erupted in the mid-20th century. These clubs still exist today, allowing new and veteran performers to get up in front of an audience and work on their new material. Many of these clubs also inspired improvisational television series that have propelled comedians to household names. 

Improv today is a popular form of live entertainment. It is considered an important skill for actors to have and is a part of most drama training curriculums. Because improv has low barriers to access, it has become an enjoyable activity for groups as well. Whether performing professionally onstage or in the company of a group of friends, improv is a historical form of live theatre, especially in the US. 

Why You Should Learn Improv

Do you have stage fright? Are you nervous when giving presentations or speeches in front of an audience? If you find yourself nervous to speak or perform in front of others, improv might be the perfect activity for you.

Improv requires you to think on your feet as you develop a storyline and character in front of a live audience. Improv uses no scripts or pre-planned dialogue. Instead, you must rely on yourself and, if working with others, your scene partner or group. Performing improv may be intimidating at first, but with lots of practice and dedication, you will grow to be more comfortable expressing yourself in front of others. 

With improv comes potential failure. All improv players face this at some point when they can’t think of how to continue a scene. This is inevitable, but it shouldn’t discourage you from improv. Although the prospect of failing in front of others can be embarrassing or frightening, the more improv scenes you take part in, the more your confidence will grow. As you become confident in yourself on stage, you can focus more on crafting your scene and your ability to perform, rather than focus on the failures that may await you. 

Like many forms of art, improv provides participants with a creative outlet. The spontaneous nature of improv allows you to use your imagination as you work to create dialogue, actions, and characterization off the top of your head. Research has shown that when improvising, the creative side of your brain works more than usual. 

Additionally, improv has been shown to reduce social anxiety and uncertainty tolerance. Although beginning improv may lead you to feel anxious, actively engaging in an improv class for just 20 minutes can reduce this anxiety as you grow more comfortable. Uncertainty intolerance is how uncomfortable you feel around uncertain things or in uncertain situations, which can hamper your ability to partake in new tasks and increase anxiety. Engaging in improv leads to significant decreases in uncertainty intolerance, making you more comfortable with uncertainty. 

5 Ways to Learn Improv

Improv is an incredibly accessible activity with low barriers to entry. As they say, everyone can act. If you’re interested in gaining experience with improv or learning basic improv games, try one of these learning methods:

  1. Take an in-person class taught by an expert instructor. Basic improv classes will walk you through the fundamentals of improv, including how to begin scenes. In-person classes will also likely provide any necessary materials or props. 
  2. Sign up for a live online course taught remotely. Online classes are taught by live instructors who can give you live feedback. If any materials or props are needed for your class, your instructor will let you know ahead of your session. 
  3. Online videos or tutorials are available on-demand that you can work through at your own pace. Keep in mind that while these are often free and readily accessible, you will not have an instructor available to you to answer questions you might have. 
  4. Practice improv by playing improv games with your friends. There are plenty of improv warm-up games explained online. Although this isn’t a formal way to learn improv, practicing with your friends in a fun and comfortable setting is a great way to get past the fear of making mistakes in a scene. 
  5. Watch an improv show, film, or special. Improvisation has been used in silent films and has also been a technique used in many comedy shows of the ‘90s and 2000s. By watching filmed improv, you can take the way that experienced comedians and actors have utilized the technique. 

In-Person Improv Classes

In-person improv classes are offered across the US at a variety of skill levels. These classes are a great way to meet others with a passion for improv who can help you work on your own techniques as you create a scene together. Whether you have a serious interest in improv or are looking for a fun way to work on your confidence and acting, in-person classes will give you hands-on experience in a friendly environment. 

The Magnet Training Center, located around two blocks northwest of Madison Square Park in Manhattan, offers several improv classes. Improv beginners can get started in either their Principles of Improv class or their Improv Level One Intensive. In Principles of Improv, you’ll jump right into warm-up-style improv games before working your way up to two-person scenes, group scenes, group games, and monologues. The Improv Intensive is perfect for fearless learners. In this class, you’ll immediately get onstage and begin exploring the fundamentals of improvisation with a partner. 

Once you’ve taken the first two levels of the Magnet Training Center’s improv intensive classes, you can take their Improv Level Three Intensive. In this class, you will focus on the Harold improv format, a popular long-form improv structure. At the end of the class, you will perform a Harold at your class graduation show. If you have a teen that is also interested in learning improv, they can take Improv for Teens, a fundamentals course for anyone aged 12 through 17. 

The Barrow Group Acting School in Hell’s Kitchen offers classes in a variety of acting techniques, including improv. They often offer improv classes for adults with a range of improv experiences. These include introductory classes where you’ll learn the basics of improv to advanced classes where you’ll practice long-form improv. Additionally, families can enroll their tweens or teens in the school’s improv and sketch comedy classes and summer camp, both of which end in an open class that friends and family can attend. 

The Barrow Group Acting School also offers a wide variety of other acting and theatre classes, like an introductory class in Shakespeare and in-depth scene-studying workshops. If you’ve decided that your interests lie off the stage, you can also check out one of their playwriting classes. Although these might not focus specifically on improv techniques, many of the skills you will learn in these classes are transferable to improv. Working on scene development can help you improve your improv scenes, while a playwriting class may give you a better understanding of how to develop a character. 

For anyone in the Los Angeles area, Los Angeles City College located in East Hollywood offers level one and level two comedy improv classes. In Off-the-Cuff: Comedy Improv (Level 1), beginners will work on the building blocks of comedic improv. This class places emphasis on improving your communication, teamwork, and listening skills through improv so that you may transfer these skills over to your personal and professional life. The level two class does all this in more as you focus on more intermediate-level improv exercises. 

In Burbank, California, DBA Flappers University offers the class Intro to Stand Up Comedy. Here you and other participants will be taught the fundamentals of stand-up comedy, including improv skills that are required for structuring a joke in a stand-up setting. 

If you’re located in the Seattle area and would like to work on your improv skills, CSz Seattle in Fremont hosts three classes at the beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. In The Improv Jam, you and your fellow players will be led by an improv veteran through various exercises and scene work. A step up from this class if you’ve taken their Improv Comedy 101 class, is Improv Comedy 201. This intermediate-level experience offers instruction in scene work, characters, and relationships. 

Finally, CSz Seattle offers Improv Comedy 301. In this advanced-level class, your instructor will provide you with direct feedback to help improve your scene work. You will also learn advanced scene work techniques. The improv games in this class are also the most challenging offered by CSz, allowing you to work on elevating your improv skills. 

If you’re looking to branch out to other forms of acting, CAST events in Manhattan offers Voiceover Intensive, a five-hour voiceover workshop. You and up to nine other participants will work through the psychology behind voiceover work and even how to succeed in a voiceover audition. Brushing up on voiceover techniques is yet another skill that can be transferred to your improv work, as it may allow you to develop characteristics of the characters you develop within a scene. 

In-person improv classes and workshops are regularly offered to adults and are listed on CourseHorse. If you don’t see any available classes in your area, be sure to check back on CourseHorse regularly, or reach out to a school that has offered classes in the past. They may let you know when improv classes will be added back to their schedules. For now, consider checking out the above-mentioned classes or looking into other acting and theatre classes offered. 

Virtual Improv Classes 

In-person improv classes led by a seasoned instructor offer direct feedback and detailed demonstrations. In these classes, you’ll be able to witness your instructor and other participants work on their scene work. If any props are required for your scene work, in-person classes are also likely to provide them. Additionally, in-person classes are great if you’re looking to socialize and share tips and techniques with others interested in improv. 

However, in-person classes aren’t always available or accessible. Virtual classes are an option for anyone who can’t take in-person improv classes, whether it be because of location, class availability, or schedule. Virtual classes are taught around the US and teach a variety of improv techniques and fundamentals. The remote format of virtual classes allows you to take them from anywhere, making them the perfect option for anyone who can’t commute to an in-person class. There are a few online improv classes available for you to take on CourseHorse. 

Improvise, Socialize, Revitalize is a relaxed beginner class in improv offered by Kissin Improv online. You and your fellow participants will practice and work toward mastering the principles of improv in this one-session class. If you find this class fun and enjoyable, Kissin Improv also offers it in a four-session format. This longer-length course emphasizes having fun while meeting others who enjoy the art of improv. 

Other online improv courses are offered regularly throughout the year, so be sure to check back to CourseHorse periodically to see what new and returning classes are available. Previous classes have focused on the principles of improv as well while allowing you to jump right into an improv scene, which can help you work on your public speaking and confidence. 

Private Group Improv Classes

Are you looking to schedule an improv class as a fun team-building activity for your business or organization? Or are you and a group of friends looking to get together and participate in fun improv games? If so, CourseHorse offers improv classes for private groups they can deliver to you. 

Up to 40 people can take CourseHorse’s virtual Team-Building Improv Workshop. In this class, your group will work through a series of improv games and exercises. This team-building workshop aims to practice listening, collaborating, and working on problem-solving with a group, all while having fun and socializing. After this course, your group can expect greater insight into effective collaboration and the ability to make quick decisions. 

For smaller work groups, CourseHorse offers a virtual Corporate Improv Workshop. Up to 20 people can be accommodated in this class where they will be led through improv games and work on their communication skills. Participants are encouraged to go with the flow in this class as they work on creating funny scenes in collaboration with their coworkers. 

If your group is interested in working on their public speaking skills, you may be interested in the virtual class, Public Speaking through Stand-up. This team-building class is taught by a professional comedian. Your team will work on joke writing while also improving their communication and public speaking skills. 

If none of these classes fit your group’s needs or interests, CourseHorse can work with you to find or create one that will. Just reach out to CourseHorse through the contact form on their website to see what other courses can be delivered to you and your group. 

CourseHorse’s virtual classes can accommodate a number of participants. Each class page will tell you the maximum group size. If you’re not sure of your group’s size at the time of sign-up, you can select the minimum group size and update your headcount up to a week before your class. CourseHorse can host their classes over several platforms, but they recommend using Zoom. 

What Will I Need to Learn Improv?

No materials or supplies are necessary to learn improv. The audience’s imagination is key to improv. Your goal is to make the scene you are performing believable. Improv is typically performed on a bare stage, although some improvisers choose to work with physical props. If props are necessary when taking an in-person class, your instructor will provide them or let you know what to bring beforehand. 

Is it Difficult to Learn Improv?

Improv can be difficult for anyone who lacks confidence in their public speaking or has stage fright. Your improv audience may also be full of strangers, which can make your mistakes feel ten times worse than they really are. But managing your nerves and moving ahead with improv practice and performances can help improve your confidence and make standing up in front of others and performing much easier. 

With enough passion and practice, improv will become easier. Once you’re accustomed to performing in front of others, you’ll be able to focus more on your actual performance. You’ll then be able to work on improving your ability to build a scene, convey actions, and develop the character you are portraying. 

Improv is an accessible art form that has been around for centuries. If you’re devoted to learning it, it can be a rewarding experience. With improv, you will have the opportunity to work on your creativity and public speaking along with other personal and interpersonal skills. 

CourseHorse Gift Cards

  • Creative & unique gift for any occasion
  • Thousands of classes & experiences
  • No expiration date
  • Instant e-delivery (or choose a date)
  • Add a personalized message
  • Lock in a price with the Inflation Buster Gift Card Price Adjuster™
Buy a Gift Card
gift card with the CourseHorse logo gift card with the CourseHorse logo
Loading...