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 (July 13): Intro to Improv
• Week 2 (July 20): Base Reality
• Week 3 (July 27): Physicality
• Week 4 (August 3): Characters
• Week 5 (August 10): Emotion and Relationship
• Week 6 (August 17): Putting it All Together
• Week 7 (August 24): Student Showcase!

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

About your instructors:

Jonathan Monroe (he/him) has been a teacher in the Maryland school systems for over 10 years. He has been an improviser in the Baltimore area for 9 years. Learning the craft from the Baltimore Improv Group, he has been a part of indie troupes; Throwing Lobsters, Hostel, and Important Screws. Jonathan has been directing a monthly school-aged driven family-friendly show, The Playground, once a month at Highwire Improv. He enjoys long form and musical improv as well as mentoring the next generation of improvisers.

Kristen McKenzie (she/her) is an improviser, educator, and founding board member of Highwire Improv. Originally from Charleston, SC, she has lived in Baltimore for more than ten years. She has trained with Baltimore Improv Group, and the Magnet, and PIT in NYC. She enjoys all kinds of improv, but dramatic improv has a special place in her heart. She believes improv is a consent-based art form and is passionate about creating improv spaces for everyone. She performs regularly with her troupes Babeprov, Local Spot, Important Screws, Topiary and Whatever This Is.

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!