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 7-9pm ET, with optional time available after class to discuss and debrief:

Week 1 (May 9): Intro to Improv

Week 2 (May 16): Base Reality

Week 3 (May 23): Physicality

Week 4 (May 30): Characters

Week 5 (June 6): Emotion and Relationship

Week 6 (June 13): Putting it All Together

Week 7 (June 20): Student Showcase!

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

About Your Instructors:

Tashika Campbell (she/her) began improvising in Baltimore, Maryland in 2017. Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, Tashika is a founding member of the award-winning independent troupe Cake Walk, and also performs with Dreamweaver. Tashika has headlined festivals across the US and coordinated the first improv festival dedicated to Black improvisers in the DMV. Tashika is also a sought after coach, teacher, and workshop facilitator.

Jess Robey (she/her) discovered her passion for improv comedy five years ago during an intro to improv workshop, and she hasn't looked back since. Based in Baltimore, Jess has performed at various theaters and spaces in cities across the East Coast.

Currently, Jess is a member of several Baltimore improv teams, including Babeprov, Croc Talk, Important Screws, Teen Angst, and the show she produces, Girl Talk.

Outside of improv, Jess finds joy in dancing, candle making, and writing. She sees improv as a liberating experience, allowing her to let go, have fun, and feel supported.

"To be able to let go and just have fun while feeling supported—that's what improv is to me." -Jess

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!