Fundamentals of Improv Level 1 - Multiweek 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 6:30-8:30pm ET, with optional time available after class to discuss and debrief:

• Week 1 (July 15): Intro to Improv
• Week 2 (July 22): Base Reality
• Week 3 (July 29): Physicality
• Week 4 (August 5): Characters
• Week 5 (August 12): Emotion and Relationship
• Week 6 (August 19): Putting it All Together
• Week 7 (August 26): Student Showcase!

This class is in-person, but Highwire Improv also offers online classes - check out our page for other offerings!

About Your Instructors:

Brian Shea (he/him) discovered improv in 2015 and has gone full speed ahead ever since. A co-founder of Highwire Improv, he performs regularly in the Baltimore area with Important Screws and Whatever This Is and other special projects. He performs on Lancaster Improv Players teams Peach Soda and Project: Harold as well as coaching and teaching there. He has never met a tag run he didn't love and knows way too many random facts about R.E.M.

Misty Letts (she/they) stepped into the improv pool 6 years ago and has not looked back. She got her footing at Baltimore Improv Group through curriculum and workshops from various BIG instructors of the form. Digging into opportunities to learn from so much talent including Don Fanelli (UCB), Kate Zelensky (UCB), and Travis Charles Ploeger (iMusical- WIT). She has also enjoyed playing with Maryland Improv Collective and can presently be found camped out on Highwire’s front stoop. Misty she’s and is also a they/them and can be found on two wheels tooling about town, so drive carefully!

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.

Can I Use Professional Development Budgets for This Class?

Yes, very often you can! We've even created a few email templates depending on what type of skills you'd like to highlight to your employer!

Host or Publisher Highwire Improv