Filters

Skill Level

Duration

Age

Common Time & Date Filters

Days of the Week

Class Start Time

Class Start Date

Price

Neighborhoods

Private Group Events

Discover Classes. Earn 10% Rewards.

Improv Classes NYC

Upcoming schedule view

Unleash your creativity and quick thinking with a variety of improv classes in NYC. Learn the art of improvisation, develop your comedic timing, and gain confidence in a supportive and fun environment.

Shop
Gift Cards

38 results

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.

(73) 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.

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

Laughter Starts Here: Improv Comedy Playtime!

New York Improv Theatre (8 Improv) See all classes by this school @ 352 West 44th Street, New York, NY

Unlock your creativity, boost self-confidence, and become a master of storytelling with laughter as your guide. Join us at the New York Improv Theatre and embark on a journey of fun, games, and meaningful character development. Learn the art of improv comedy and discover the power of teamwork, leadership, and communication skills along the way.

(78) Beginner 16 and older
$50
Attend
+500 pts
Gift it!
Give Experiences. One Gift Card. Thousands of Classes.

Improv Classes Gift Card

  • Thousands of classes & experiences.
  • No expiration.
  • Get 15% points back.
  • Instant delivery (or printable card).
  • Rated a top experience gift by Time Out.
  • Gift an experience this holiday season and make it a memorable one.

Buy a Gift Card

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.

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

Evening Introductory Program

Stella Adler Studio of Acting See all classes by this school @ 65 Broadway, New York, NY

Experience the essence of conservatory training in our Evening Introductory Program, where you will dive into Acting Technique, Scene Study, Movement, Improvisation, and Voice & Speech. Develop your skills and grow as an actor in this immersive, multi-disciplinary course.

Beginner 18 and older
$2,050

25 sessions

Attend
+20500 pts
Gift it!

Launch Into 'Yes!' Improv

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

Discover the basics of improvisation through fun games and simple scene work in this engaging and supportive class. Explore the key components of improv, from connecting and communicating to building scenes, emotions, and characters. Join us for a ton of noncompetitive fun!

(70) Beginner 18 and older
$225

2 sessions

Attend
+2250 pts
Gift it!

Improv Level 1: Intro to Improv

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 144 Boerum St, Brooklyn, NY

Step into the world of improv and discover the power of saying "Yes, and!" Build confidence, creativity, and boldness through games and exercises that encourage emotional honesty, risk-taking, and strong scene partnerships. Perfect for beginners, this workshop offers a supportive space to unleash your potential and connect with others while having fun.

(5) Beginner 16 and older
$375

7 sessions

Attend
+3750 pts
Gift it!

Stand-Up Level 1: Finding Your Voice

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 137 Montrose Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Ready to try stand-up but unsure where to start? This workshop helps you uncover your comedic voice through personal stories, one-liners, and improvisation techniques. Gain practical experience with stage time to test original material and learn about the vibrant NY comedy scene, all while building the foundation for your unique stand-up routine.

(5) Beginner 16 and older
$375

7 sessions

Attend
+3750 pts
Gift it!

Improv Level 3: Advanced Scene Dynamics

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 137 Montrose Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Take your improv to the next level with advanced techniques that blend fearless play with authentic character work. Master the art of building dynamic group scenes, balancing multiple focuses, and keeping audiences engaged with surprising twists. This workshop challenges you to embrace your unique style, step out of your comfort zone, and create seamless, compelling performances.

(5) Advanced 16 and older
$375

7 sessions

Attend
+3750 pts
Gift it!

Improv Intensive: Levels 1 & 2

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 137 Montrose Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Jump into the world of improv with a fast-paced, supportive intensive that builds confidence, spontaneity, and bold choices. Learn to trust your instincts, embrace risks, and silence self-doubt through dynamic exercises and scene work. With a focus on emotional honesty and creative freedom, this experience will challenge you, sharpen your skills, and culminate in a live performance.

(5) All levels 16 and older
$450

5 sessions

Attend
+4500 pts
Gift it!

Improv Level 2: Free Your Mind

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 144 Boerum St, Brooklyn, NY

Reignite your love for improv with a fearless, fun, and freeing approach. Embrace bold choices, quiet the inner critic, and dive into scenes with emotional clarity and creativity. This workshop challenges you to support your scene partners, surprise yourself, and navigate long-form improv with confidence—all while keeping the joy at the center of it all.

(5) Intermediate 16 and older
$375

7 sessions

Attend
+3750 pts
Gift it!

Creating Characters Through Improv

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 144 Boerum St, Brooklyn, NY

Discover how to build compelling solo characters using the tools of improv. Whether you're starting fresh or refining a work in progress, this workshop helps you shape a performance that showcases your voice, perspective, and strengths. Learn to craft characters that are original, dynamic, and stage-ready.

(5) All levels 16 and older
$35
Attend
+350 pts
Gift it!

Improv to Sketch

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 144 Boerum St, Brooklyn, NY

Learn to create compelling sketches and solo characters through the dynamic process of improvisation. This workshop guides you from ideation to improvisation, refining your ideas through feedback and instinct. Develop a deeper understanding of how to bring creative concepts to life, while honing the skills to craft engaging, hilarious characters and scenes.

(5) Beginner 16 and older
$35
Attend
+350 pts
Gift it!

Sketch Level 1

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 144 Boerum St, Brooklyn, NY

Unlock the process of writing sketch comedy in this hands-on workshop. Explore everything from creating through improv to finding the "game" of a sketch, developing characters, and crafting engaging scenes. With a focus on creativity and fun, this class provides the tools and support to turn your ideas into a staged performance. Perfect for those new to sketch writing or looking to refine their skills.

(5) Beginner 16 and older
$375

7 sessions

Attend
+3750 pts
Gift it!

Gimme That Queer Sh!t

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 137 Montrose Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Unleash your comedic voice and celebrate what makes you bold, brilliant, and unapologetically queer. This high-energy improv class hones your strengths, sharpens your timing, and builds a custom form around your unique style. Get ready to laugh hard, connect deeply, and take the stage with pride and power.

(5) All levels 16 and older
$300

5 sessions

Attend
+3000 pts
Gift it!

Advanced Improv: Honing Your Voice

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 144 Boerum St, Brooklyn, NY

Push your improv to the next level by honing your unique artistic voice. This advanced workshop offers personalized feedback and challenges you to make bold, joyful choices on stage. Through collaborative exercises, you'll refine your skills, develop original forms, and craft dynamic solo material—all while gaining the confidence to perform with authenticity and creativity.

(5) Advanced 16 and older
$300

5 sessions

Attend
+3000 pts
Gift it!

Stand-Up Level 2: Solidifying Your Set

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 137 Montrose Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Take your stand-up to the next level by refining your unique voice and developing a polished, cohesive set. This workshop focuses on crafting a solid routine, mastering the art of hosting, and understanding what makes your material truly funny. With personalized feedback and group workshopping, you'll build confidence and prepare for a 10-minute performance that marks the beginning of your solo show.

(5) Intermediate 16 and older
$375

7 sessions

Attend
+3750 pts
Gift it!

Character Workshop: Crafting Characters

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 137 Montrose Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Hone your comedic character skills in this workshop designed for comedians looking to create memorable characters for live performances and filmed content. Whether you're aiming for SNL auditions or TikTok fame, this workshop will teach you the essential skills to make your characters stand out. Prior experience at major comedy theaters or similar training is required.

(5) Intermediate 16 and older
$300

5 sessions

Attend
+3000 pts
Gift it!

Improv Level 4: Long Forms

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 144 Boerum St, Brooklyn, NY

Explore diverse improv forms in this advanced workshop, from classic structures to experimental creations. Develop universally applicable skills while learning to build cohesive, unified performances that go beyond a series of scenes. Perfect for performers ready to push boundaries and refine their craft, this experience challenges you to create dynamic, unforgettable shows.

(5) Advanced 16 and older
$375

7 sessions

Attend
+3750 pts
Gift it!

Sketch Level 2

Brooklyn Comedy Collective See all classes by this school @ 137 Montrose Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Take your sketch writing to the next level by collaborating as an ensemble to create a fully realized sketch revue. Through improvisation, pitching, writing, and refining, you'll develop material, strengthen performance skills, and incorporate technical elements. This process-driven class culminates in a professional show debut, highlighting each performer’s unique voice in the ensemble.

(5) Intermediate 16 and older
$375

7 sessions

Attend
+3750 pts
Gift it!

No results found

Try removing some filters.

Reviews for Improv Classes in NYC

Improv Classes in NYC are rated 4.6 stars based on 976 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

  • I really enjoyed the work. Finding my voice. Being challenged to write. Being honest. Learn to Take a risk. I would recommend to anyone. I’d definitely do it again.
  • I'm completely new, I took two classes. The atmosphere is very friendly and welcoming. The class has a group of people who consistently go there, so there is a community. Great intro to improv, and I totally will come back.
  • I had an enlightening experience after experiencing John as a teacher and I really felt comfortable to to learn with him there. I would highly recommend the intro class and will return for more improvulution courses.
  • Improvisation class with Dave, Walter, and everyone has been engaging. We did zip-zap-zop, three lines, switch game (switch the object), columns, fixed word count, genre, the world's worst xxx, and more. From not knowing how to start a sentence to calling back the terms we mentioned earlier and adding information to indicate who, what, and where, I stepped into the improvisation world. Every other member in the team were also doing their best. The liveliness of the class is inspiring and the concept of "yes, and" instead of denial can be life-changing. Highly recommend the class; wish to take more.
  • Carl is friendly and professional and a great teacher. I had a great experience!
  • I had a great experience with Improv I. Samantha was an excellent teacher who was able to get everyone to relax and actively participate and be invested in classes. I'd recommend taking the class for those at a beginner level who want to get started in Improv, or even for anyone who's just curious about what Improv is.
  • Great
  • Really enjoyed this class! Carl was a fantastic teacher. The group was fun and welcoming. Highly recommend.
  • 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!!
  • Sara Hennersson is an excellent teacher/mentor. Gives fantastic feedback and makes the go by fast. Her analysis and examples to enhance our own creativity is extraordinary. Highly recommend this class for beginners.
  • 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!
  • Great environment!
  • I really enjoyed the Intro to Improv class! I’d rate it a 5 out of 5. The instructor created a fun and supportive environment, making it easy to step out of my comfort zone and try new things. The exercises were engaging, and I appreciated how the class encouraged spontaneity and creativity. Overall, it was a great experience, and I’d definitely recommend it to others.
  • Class was great! The instructor was super helpful and I had a lot of fun
  • Excellent instructor and lots of fun!
  • This was so much fun! Great class!
  • It showed me there is more to comedy than stand-up. Dennis is a very knowledgeable and friendly teacher.
  • 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 :)
  • Lots of fun and lots of learning..
  • FREE Improv Class

    I really enjoyed the free improv class last year. I remember whoever ran it did a great job and I felt comfortable participating. I would recommend it to anyone, especially someone who considers themselves an introvert.
  • I loved Andy’s class. Funny guy. Next time I will try to make it to his showcase
  • Great class lots of fun
  • Loved it
  • It was a great class! I learned so much about improv in just these 2 hours.
  • I met Walt and many others in this class. The class is great, Walt is great, funny, energetic, and knows what he is doing. The class has good number of students - not too little to be too boring, not too much to not get any chance. The students and Walt shall bring the best out of you, even if you are breaking a sweat. I shall go here again, if I have time.
  • It was so informative and generous.
  • It was so much fun!
  • I definitely recommend it, especially for bored kids!
  • It was a great experience. I love the challenge of improve and the uncertain.
  • This was a wonderful class. As my first improv class ever, I explored reacting to others and practiced how to do so quickly (that is, without overthinking). Above all, I remembered to have fun.
  • I was skeptical at first about a virtual online improv class, but he made it work. It was fun and I learned a lot.
  • It was fun and comfortable :)
  • For my first class, the instructor and participants were very welcoming and provided a real good insight into the world of improv. I hope to do it again!
  • The class was fun and It helped me be more spontaneous
  • It was fun!
  • Had a great experience. It was packed with activities. Had a lot of fun.
  • Sam is GREAT!! I have taken a lot of improv classes before and Sam is one of the best! Great feedback, but so supportive! The other people in the class are also so much fun!! I highly recommend!!
  • Will handles the session and all the participants very well. Maintains order and spirits seemingly without effort. Exercises are well chosen. Feel I am learning something. Well done. Thanks.
  • Super fun and no pressure at all :)
  • This class was really fun! There was enough time to learn the games and get into them. And the timing is good because it's a great way to unwind and end the day on a fun note.
  • Firstly, the class was 90 minutes rather than 60 (and even ran over) so even better value than it looks. Secondly, I have been to improv classes before but learnt a lot from this one. It was a drop-in class for people of all abilities (from first timers to people who have been doing it for years) but everyone took away something, and the teacher was good and highlighting ways to improve without sounding at all negative. And the standard was pretty decent.
  • I missed the class but I am sure it would have been great!
  • Sam is exceptional at know what to do in an improv session, and a great person to boot. Try it out and you won't be embarrassed, you will simply have fun!
  • The instructor and the other class attendants were very warm and friendly. The instructor provided great exercises throughout the evening that helped us become aware of word fillers and other habits we have in communicating that should be avoided. I liked how we were all engaged with each other and used the examples she provided to challenge ourselves to listen to other, think on our feet and learn different ways to communicate according to the situation we’re in.
  • Even though there were several really experienced and talented people in the class, it was not intimidating for someone new to improv, like me. Andrew is very positive, fun and encouraging. I will definitely attend this class again.
  • zxImprov - Turn Stir Crazy Into Crazy Fun

    It was a great experience.
  • The class was a lot of fun, it was my first improv class and loved it. The host was energetic and supportive. He had a lot of scenes and games to keep the class going!!
  • zxmprov - Playtime for Grown-Ups

    Carl and the class were absolutely amazing! I’m looking forward to working with them again.
  • Find Your Funny: A Crash Course on Improv Comedy

    Wonderful class! Was really apprehensive going into the class but Brittany made sure everyone was comfortable and having fun learning!
  • I had the best time and learned a lot about myself.

Discover the Best Improv Classes in NYC

Improvisational theatre, better known as improv, is a form of ensemble theatre that is spontaneous. The performance itself is both unplanned and unscripted. The dialogue, actions, storyline, and characters are all developed as the scene unfolds. It is not always comedic but often is, making improv popular among comedians. 

Improv in the West can be traced back to ancient Rome, in 391 BC, where it was performed as part of the Atellan Farce. These comedy performances involved masked performers who improvised dialogue using pre-planned characters. Improv continued to develop as street performers used it to show off their quick, comedic thinking to earn money. 

In the 20th century, improv was professionally developed. Styles like improv games (short form), improv scenes (long form), and improvised plays (narrative form) were developed. Improv-focused comedy clubs formed and in the later 20th century and early 21st century, improv-based television shows began airing. Improv is now a desired skill among theatre actors, so it has become a part of many drama curricula.

Today improv remains a popular form of live entertainment. It is an accessible activity due to the low barriers of entry, making it an activity enjoyed by many. You can take in-person or online improv classes to learn the basic principles, or you can turn to free resources online. There are plenty of on-demand tutorials that teach you the basics of improv like listening and spontaneity. Television shows where hosts engage in improv games in front of a live audience are available online that you can watch as a form of demonstration. 

Why You Should Learn Improv in NYC

Whether you’re looking to learn improv because you want to begin theatre acting or because you would like to improve your interpersonal skills, there are many benefits to taking an improv class in NYC. 

Improv is a great activity for anyone dealing with stage fright or a fear of public speaking. It requires you to create a storyline and character in front of a live audience in real time, encouraging quick thinking. Since there is no script or pre-planned dialogue, you must rely on yourself to come up with ideas that fit the scene. This can all seem intimidating at first, but with enough practice, you’ll grow to be more comfortable and confident in performing in front of others. 

With improv, you’ll learn to face failure. This may come from not knowing how to continue a scene or not creating a character that works well within the scene. It’s okay to fail in improv. In fact, instances of failure will only help you improve your improv abilities as you learn from your mistakes. Once you move past your fear of failing, you can focus more of your attention on the principles of developing an entertaining scene. 

Improv also provides mental benefits. It has been shown to reduce social anxiety by reducing uncertainty intolerance. When you’re uncertain about a situation, it can cause anxiety. By engaging in improv, you’ll be working on becoming more comfortable in uncertain situations. As you become accustomed to reacting to uncertain situations, you’ll begin to feel less anxiety when placed in them in the future. 

In-Person Improv Classes & Schools in NYC

In-person improv classes are offered at schools across New York City. They are typically open to learners of all levels, from beginner, to intermediate, to advanced. These classes can introduce you to others with an interest in improv and allow you to work with an experienced instructor who will guide you through the principles of improv and scene work.

In Manhattan, just blocks from Madison Square Park, is The Magnet Training Center, which offers several improv classes. If you’re just getting started with improv, you have the option of taking their Principles of Improv class. Principles of Improv throws you right into gaining improv experience, as you work your way through warm-up-style improv games. You’ll then work on two-person scenes, before advancing to group scenes, group games, and even monologues. 

Another beginner class at The Magnet Training Center is their Improv Intensive. This level-one class puts you onstage immediately, making it perfect for fearless learners. You will explore the fundamentals of improvisation with a partner while working on exercises based on the concepts of agreement, commitment, spontaneity, and listening. This class is particularly focused on turning you into a confident performer. At the end of the class, you will perform in front of friends and family at a class graduation performance. 

If you take the first two level improv intensives, you can move on to the Improv Level Three Intensive. This advanced-level class teaches the fundamentals of long-form improv, also known as the Harold format. Once you’ve mastered this fun and simple format, you’ll perform a Harold in your class graduation show in front of friends and family. If you have a teenager that you’d like to enroll in an improv class, The Magnet Training Center offers a class called Improv for Teens. This is a fundamental course for teens aged 12 through 17. 

You can take classes in a variety of acting and theatre techniques at the Barrow Group Acting School in Hell’s Kitchen. They often update their schedule with adult improv classes that teach the fundamentals of improv. Their more advanced improv classes teach long-form improv basics and techniques. If you’d like to learn how to improve character development in your improv scenes, consider taking one of their playwriting classes. 

The Barrow Group Acting School also holds classes for teens and tweens. If you’re looking to enroll your child in a class alongside your own, they have multiple options focusing on improv among other acting and theatre classes. These include introductory improv and sketch comedy classes as well as a summer camp. The last day of these classes is open to family and friends. 

Virtual Improv Classes & Schools

In-person improv classes are a great way to get hands-on instruction while also witnessing demonstrations up close. Attending in-person classes can also be a good way to socialize and make friends with other people who have an interest in improv. 

However, in-person classes are not always available in your area or may not fit into your schedule. If this is the case, consider checking out virtual improv classes. These remote classes can be attended from anywhere, including your own home. They are taught by an experienced live instructor and are focused on a variety of aspects of improv. Remote classes can also be more comfortable for some people because you are performing through a screen rather than directly in front of others. 

There are a few online improv classes available for you to take on CourseHorse. 

Beginners looking to learn improv while also socializing in a fun and friendly environment should check out the class Improvise, Socialize, Revitalize. This one-hour class, offered by Kissin Improv, is led by an instructor who will offer feedback as you practice your improv skills. If you’d like to take a longer course, this class is also offered in a four-session format. Not only will you be able to practice your improv skills, but you will work toward mastering the principles of improv that can help you in any work, performance, or social situation. 

Additional improv classes are offered online throughout the year. Check back on CourseHorse regularly to see their updated schedule of new and returning improv classes. Previously offered online classes have taught the principles of improv while also encouraging participants to work on improving their confidence and communication skills. 

Private Group Improv Classes in NYC

Are you looking to schedule a fun improv class for your business or organization? Does your team need a fun activity that will help them work on their communication and ability to collaborate? CourseHorse offers improv classes for private groups that they can deliver to you. 

Their virtual Team-Building Improv Workshop accommodates up to 40 participants looking to work on strengthening their abilities as a team to listen, collaborate, and problem-solve. You and your group will work through improv games and exercises and leave the workshop with a better ability to communicate with each other effectively and make quick decisions individually and as a team. 

Smaller groups of up to 20 people can sign up for the virtual Corporate Improv Workshop. This class encourages you to gain confidence in yourself as you work through comedic improv games and exercises. You and your group members will create funny scenes together as a way of practicing collaboration. 

CourseHorse also offers a class called Public Speaking through Stand-up. This online class is taught by a professional comedian and focuses on developing better public speaking skills. Your group will do this by working on creating funny jokes that can be told in a stand-up routine. 

If these classes don’t meet your group’s needs or interests, you can reach out to CourseHorse through the contact form on their website. They can work with you to determine what class does meet your needs and size. Their classes can accommodate varying group sizes. If you don’t know your group size when signing up for a class, you can select the minimum group size before updating the number before your class. 

CourseHorse classes may be delivered over a variety of platforms, but they recommend using Zoom. 

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...