Discover the Best Improv Classes in Washington, D.C.
Improv is a spontaneous form of ensemble theater that dates to ancient Greek farces. This improvisational form of theater relies on the actors, also known as players, to think on their feet. The scene acted out is not planned; instead, improv requires you to come up with dialogue, characters, setting, and more on the spot. Improv games and exercises are ways to improve your improvisational acting techniques. These games may be short, long, or narrative form.
Improv has evolved since it was first used in ancient Greek comedy performances. Street performers used to engage in improv to earn money. It was then in the 20th century that improvisational comedy clubs opened, and television shows focused on improvisational comedy and improv games began to air. Improv is now considered an essential skill for actors to have and has become a part of the curriculum of drama schools.
Improv has low barriers to entry. It can be done professionally or among a group of friends, making it both a professional and casual activity. If you’re in the area and are interested in improv, check out local comedy clubs, schools, and theaters that might offer classes.
Why You Should Learn Improv in
Improv is a fun way to get over stage fright and a fear of public speaking. If those problems plague you, consider learning improv.
Improv can be scary for those with a fear of performing in front of others. However, actively engaging in improv has been shown to reduce anxiety. Your fear of uncertainty will decrease as you spend more time working on improv scenes and improve your ability to think on your feet in front of a live audience. This will not only improve your confidence but also your ability to communicate.
Frequent improvers are familiar with failure. When starting with improv, there’s a good chance you’ll be unsure of how to continue a scene at some point. You might not know what you should say or how your character should act. But you shouldn’t be afraid of failure–it’s a part of getting better at improv. You’ll learn how to move on from failure and continue a scene as you gain experience.
In-Person Improv Classes in
You can take an in-person improv class at a school, theater, or club in the area. In-person classes are taught by professionals who can thoroughly explain the fundamentals of improv. They’re also available to answer your questions and provide you with feedback. In-person classes are also a great way to meet others with an interest in improv.
New and returning in-person improv classes offered in your area can be found on CourseHorse. There you’ll be able to find out about class schedules and the content of classes you’re interested in.
Classes are offered for people who are new and experienced with improv. In the past, local venues have offered classes that focus on the foundations of improv, building a scene, and long-form improvisation. You can also reach out to theaters and schools that frequently teach improv classes to see if there are any upcoming schedules.
Virtual Improv Classes
Virtual improv classes are offered online by schools and theaters around the country. These classes are taught remotely by live instructors. In-person classes may provide more hands-on instruction, but remote learners still receive in-depth demonstrations and thorough feedback from their instructor. Virtual classes also provide interaction with other participants.
Online improv classes are taught using an online video platform, like Zoom. You can take classes from any interruption-free environment with a stable internet connection. This eliminates the need to commute within the city. There are virtual improv classes offered on CourseHorse that you can sign up for today.
Those experienced and inexperienced in improv can sign up for Actor’s Improv Studio’s online improv class. In this class, you’ll learn to access your creativity and trust your creative instinct. Improv will be taught as a tool to make spontaneous yet strong choices in your professional life, whether you’re taking the class to become better at auditions or to improve your acting skills.
Kissin Improv offers an online improv class for all skill levels. Before the class starts, you’ll receive 50 minutes of private or small group coaching from the instructor in the fundamentals of improv. This one-on-one instruction may help you become more comfortable with improv before putting yourself in a class environment.
Private Group Improv Classes in
Are you looking to book a private group improv class for your business or organization to facilitate team building? CourseHorse can deliver classes to you remotely.
You can book CourseHorse’s Team-Building Improv Workshop if your group is up to 40 people. An instructor will guide your group through several improv games and exercises as a way of encouraging listening, communicating, and collaboration among your team. You’ll also learn how to problem-solve as a group.
Groups of up to 20 people can book CourseHorse’s Corporate Improv Workshop. This class will improve problem-solving among your team, as well as encourage them to loosen up and respect each other’s thoughts and opinions. The dedication to a stress-free environment makes this ideal for groups looking to team-build in a fun environment.
CourseHorse has a contact form on its website that can be used to find out about other improv or team development classes they can offer you. You can discuss your group’s learning needs and goals as you determine what class you’d like to book.
Not sure what type of class your group would like? For $100 you can schedule a 20-minute demo with CourseHorse. A demo will give you an idea of a class’s content so that you can decide if you’d like to book it.
CourseHorse does not charge a booking fee and allows free cancellations up to two weeks before your class is scheduled. If you need to reschedule your class less than 48 hours beforehand, you will be charged a $150 rescheduling fee.
CourseHorse classes can be taken using Zoom. To use an alternate platform, such as Microsoft Teams, Google Meets, or WebEx, contact CourseHorse and provide them with the meeting details.
