About This Course

Why can't longform be as funny as short form?
What is it about short form improv that lends itself to comedy?
How can we be funny on purpose?

Short Form Improv, where each scene is its own game with its own rules, tends to be easier to perform and funnier to watch than Longform Improv, which usually features scenes connected in a format, where there are no rules. Actors in a longform must discover the game of a scene while they are playing it, and sometimes we lose the chance to be funny or have fun. This course will help you find and exploit those opportunities for comedy.

As a final performance, we will perform the original longform improv format, The Harold. We will learn and practice this mix of structure and free creativity, working as a team to build comedy consistently. Students will gain a better sense of comedic timing, repetition, and reference.

What are the benefits of teamwork?
Working within a group to create collaboratively is incredibly difficult, especially considering how valuable it is to honor the different perspectives and approaches individuals contribute. In this course, you will learn how to embrace the ideas of others and gain the confidence to express yourself and share at your full potential.

What are the benefits of being on stage?
Rising to the challenge of performing on stage boosts confidence and allows you to practice the skills you learn in class. The skills you take away from improv benefit you in the theatre and in your life, but really crystalize in the moment when you must rely on your teammates and bring your best in the moment you need it. That’s when the skills are truly learned.

What are the benefits of learning comedy?
Comedy is a unique form of communication. Your goal is to elicit one response- laughter- but it’s so much more. People all have different senses of humor, and you can reach them on a mental, emotional, or guttural level. In practicing comedy, you will learn many methods to reach out and connect with someone.