Discover the Best Improv Classes Online
Improvisational theatre, or improv, is a form of spontaneous ensemble theatre. It is unplanned and unscripted, although some improv games allow you to determine aspects of the scene ahead of time, like the setting. When engaging in improv, you create the scene as it goes on. This includes dialogue, actions, storyline, and characters.
Improv is an old art form of live theatre, with the first documented improvisations taking place in 391 BC in ancient Rome. Throughout time, performers would improv in the streets, showing off their comedic timing and quick thinking. Eventually, improv took a professional turn in the 20th century. Comedy clubs welcomed improvised performances and television shows where improv games were played became popular.
Today improv is a popular form of live entertainment. It is taught as part of most drama curriculums because it is seen as a valuable skill among theatre actors. Improv has low barriers to entry, making it accessible to anyone with an interest in learning it.
Why You Should Learn Improv Online
Are you nervous when speaking in front of large groups or audiences? Improv is a great activity for working on your public speaking and improving confidence levels. When creating an improv scene, you must think quickly to develop a storyline and characters, all in front of a live audience. There are no scripts or lines to memorize. In doing this, you end up relying on yourself and your scene partners.
Of course, with improv comes the chance of failure. You might be unsure of how to continue a scene or not know what physical movements to make. Don’t let this scare you away from improv. The more improv scenes and games you do, the more comfortable you’ll become in front of others. As your confidence grows, you’ll find yourself focusing less on how the audience may be viewing you, and instead on developing an entertaining, well-crafted scene.
Virtual Improv Classes
In-person improv classes led by an experienced instructor are a great learning option if you’re looking for direct feedback. In-person classes let you witness scenes led by your instructor and other participants in a friendly, fun environment. These classes are also great if you’re looking to socialize with other people that have an interest in improv.
In-person classes are not always accessible, but virtual classes are available to anyone with a computer and internet connection. If in-person classes are not available to you or do not fit your schedule, consider looking into online improv classes. These remote classes are taught across the US and can help you learn a variety of improv techniques. There are online improv classes offered by CourseHorse.
If you’re looking to learn the principles of improv while socializing in an easygoing yet energized setting, consider taking Improvise, Socialize, Revitalize, offered by Kissin Improv. This virtual improv class is also offered in a four-session format. During each session, you will work on practicing improv while working toward mastering its major principles.
CourseHorse regularly updates its list of available online improv classes. If none of the classes currently offered interest you, check back regularly to see what classes have been added. In the past, online improv classes have been offered that focus on the principles of improv as well as working on your communication skills through scene creation.
Private Online Group Improv Classes
Is your business or organization looking to schedule an improv class as a fun team-building activity? CourseHorse offers improv classes for private groups that focus on important team-building skills like listening, collaborating, and communication that they can deliver straight to you and your group.
In their virtual Team-Building Improv Workshop, groups of up to 40 will work through a series of improv games and exercises. Although the goal of this class is to improve how you listen to and communicate with your team members, it is also intended to be a fun socializing activity. At the end of the class, your group will have improved their ability to work together as well as their personal confidence levels.
Smaller corporate groups can sign up for CourseHorse’s virtual Corporate Improv Workshop. You and your group will work on creating funny scenes while also improving your teamwork and communication. Companies and organizations that emphasize public speaking may be interested in the comedian-led virtual Public-Speaking through Stand-up class. Your group will work on writing jokes that can be told in a stand-up environment. This class accommodates up to 30 participants.
If these classes fail to meet the needs or interests of your group, don’t hesitate to reach out to CourseHorse through the contact form on their website to see what other classes they offer or what classes they can create for you and your group. CourseHorse classes can accommodate a range of group sizes. If you’re unsure of your group’s size at the time of booking, go ahead and book for the minimum group size. You can then update your headcount later.
CourseHorse recommends that you take their classes over Zoom, but they can accommodate other platforms. There are no booking fees when using CourseHorse, and they offer free cancellations up to two weeks before your class.
Online vs. In-Person Improv Classes
When deciding if you’d like to take an in-person or online improv class, you should consider the benefits of both. In-person classes are great for receiving hands-on instruction and direct feedback. In an in-person class, you can also socialize with other participants more easily and have your questions answered by your instructor as you work through the class.
Online classes are more accessible than in-person classes. If the commute to your closest in-person class is too far or if there are no in-person improv classes in your area, you should consider online classes. These classes are open to anyone with internet access and eliminate the need to commute. They are led by a live instructor who will guide you and the other participants through the class syllabus.
When deciding between online and in-person classes, first determine if there are any in-person classes scheduled in your area. If there are, assess how they would fit into your schedule, including the required commute time. If you find that there are none or you won’t be able to make the commute, online classes may be the best option for you.
Can I Learn Improv for Free Online?
You can begin learning improv for free through online resources like tutorials and on-demand videos. If you’re looking for additional instruction from an expert who can answer your questions, an instructor-led class is a more efficient and thorough way to learn improv.
