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 (September 9): Intro to Improv
• Week 2 (September 16): Base Reality
• Week 3 (September 23): Physicality
• Week 4 (September 30): Characters
• Week 5 (October 7): Emotion and Relationship
• Week 6 (October 14): Putting it All Together
• Week 7 (October 21): Student Showcase!

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

About your Instructors:

Jenny Kessler (she/her) has been practicing, performing, coaching, and facilitating improv since 2018. She is a brand strategist by day and a comedy goblin by night. She loves helping others experience the magic of play through improv, doing watercolor paintings when she travels, and exploring the DMV food scene. She's known for using big emotions on and off stage, and has experience with the Harold, Deconstruction, La Ronde, Montage, and Musical improv.

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!