Improv For Beginners

Where should I start?

Heard about improvisation and want to know a bit more? Think it sounds fun, but are not sure where to start? Want to know what to expect in your first class? Wondering if it is right for you?

And Also’s improv classes don’t require any previous training or knowledge. You don’t need to be an actor or an extrovert, and you certainly don’t need to be funny. Our students range from teachers to doctors, homemakers to students, coaches, therapists and those between work. Our classes are accessible to everyone and give you the skills and opportunities to make it up, make each other laugh and perhaps even surprise yourself.

Scroll down for our drop in and sample classes, as well as dates for or next level 1 course.

What is Improv?

Although you can improvise just about anything, our improv classes are centred on improvising theatre and comedy, first for your classmates and then for friends and family.

Improv classes can look like many things, but most will have a balance of games and exercises in small groups and as a full class. Some might be physical, some verbal, some will feel more like acting, and some more like games. It might be silly, or more serious, or (more likely) a combination of both.

Our Core Principles

‘Yes and’ – We accept our partner’s idea and add something to it.

Listening – We listen fully to what is being said.

Cooperation – We work together rather than compete.

Creativity – We let go of our expectations to follow what is happening.

Team and a group – We work to understand each other in order to work better together.

Why Do Improv?

Improv is like going to the gym for your brain, with different exercises working different skills and different people finding different benefits.

Apart from being a lot of fun, improv can help you to be calmer and more responsive under pressure and more comfortable in groups of people, as well as help you build empathy and compassion and work better cooperatively. It can help with public speaking and networking, as well as make you more creative and flexible.

Which class to take?

The core of our improvisation training is our course pathway, which will take you from beginner to confident performer. Our levels are twelve weeks long, with level 1 split into two six-week parts. Courses start in September, January and after Easter, and there are occasional intensive weekends if you miss our start dates. All courses end with a voluntary ‘showing’ for friends and family.

Or if you just want to try it out, why not come along to either our Thursday Open Drop In, or one of our sample classes, both of which are low-pressure, friendly environments run by our expert teachers. See the links below.

And if money is tight, we have generous concessionary and scholarship programmes. You can read about these on our policies page.

The AndAlso Comprehensive Guide to Improv for Beginners

Part 1: Understanding Improvisation

Before diving into the practicalities, we wanted to give a more detailed rundown on what improvisation truly is. In this mini guide, we'll explore its definition, why it's valuable, and some notable British and American improv shows that exemplify its principles. These foundations will set the stage for your journey into the world of improv. Improvisation is the practice of performing or creating something on the spot. At AndAlso Improv, we believe it involves being adaptable and using your creativity to respond to the present moment.

Some more practical reasons on why to learn improvisation:

  • Enhances Creativity: Encourages innovative thinking.
  • Builds Confidence: Boosts self-assurance by performing without a script.
  • Improves Problem-Solving Skills: Helps in making quick decisions.
  • Promotes Flexibility: Teaches adaptation to changing situations.

Notable Improv Shows and Formats

To get a sense of the richness and diversity of improvisation, it's helpful to look at some well-known improv shows and formats from the UK and USA:

Part 2: The Basics of Improvisation

Let's start with the fundamentals. Understanding the core principles of improvisation is crucial to becoming a skilled improviser. AndAlso has 5 key principles. These principles guide how you interact with others and make spontaneous decisions. We'll also introduce some beginner-friendly improv activities to help you practice these basics.

Exercises to Get Started

On an AndAlso improv course in Brighton, you might find yourself playing easy improv games like:
  • Word Association: Respond with the first word that comes to mind.
  • Mirror Exercise: Mimic your partner’s movements like a reflection.
  • One-Word Story: Build a story one word at a time with a group.
  • Environment Building: Imagine and describe a setting in detail.

Part 3: Improvisation Formats You Might Encounter with AndAlso

Improvisation comes in many flavours, and at AndAlso, we offer a range of formats to suit different tastes and skill levels. Whether you're into music, theatre, or just starting out, we've got something for everyone.

Theatrical Improvisation

Our theatrical improvisation classes cover a range of beginner-friendly activities that help you build confidence and creativity on stage. You'll engage in exercises that develop your spontaneity and storytelling skills. These non-musical improv courses at the beginner level are perfect for those new to improv. Find out more about our non-musical improv courses on our training pathway page here.

Musical Improvisation

In our musical improvisation classes, you’ll experience the thrill of having an improvisational pianist underscore scenes and situations. Your improvised dialogue can suddenly break into an improvised song. While this might feel like the scariest thing ever to try, you can absolutely go from zero to being an improvised singing performer in the space of just one course. The sense of achievement is colossal. Learn more about our musical improv courses (link to be added from other page I sent)

 Part 4: Overcoming Common Challenges

Improvisation can be daunting, especially when faced with common challenges like fear of failure, stage fright, and creative blocks. This section provides strategies and tips to help you overcome these hurdles, ensuring that you stay confident and inspired on your improv journey.

Fear of Failure

  • Embrace Mistakes: See them as opportunities to learn and grow.
  • Practice Regularly: The more you practise, the more comfortable you will become.
  • Stay Positive: Focus on what went well and build on it. We offer tips for staying positive at AndAlso Improv in our podcast on doing improv for the first time

Stage Fright

  • Preparation: Even though improvisation is spontaneous, practising the basics can build confidence.
  • Relaxation Techniques: Use deep breathing or visualisation to calm nerves.
  • Supportive Environment: Practice in a supportive and non-judgemental setting. Check out our community events (we need a community events page)

Creative Blocks

  • Change Your Environment: A new setting can spark creativity.
  • Collaborate: Work with others to get new ideas and perspectives.
  • Take Breaks: Sometimes stepping away for a while can help rejuvenate your creativity.

Part 5: Advanced Techniques and Continuing Practice

As you gain confidence and experience, you'll want to refine your skills and tackle more advanced techniques. This section offers suggestions for ongoing practice, advanced exercises, and ways to build a supportive improv community around you. Refining Your Skills
  • Workshops and Classes: Join improvisation classes or workshops to learn from experienced practitioners at AndAlso Improv.
  • Perform Regularly: Participate in open mic nights, improv shows, or community events.
  • Feedback: Seek constructive feedback from peers and mentors.
Advanced Exercises
  • Status Games: Practise playing characters of different social statuses and see how it affects your interactions.
  • Emotion Switch: Switch between different emotions rapidly during a scene.
  • Genre Work: Improvise scenes in different genres (comedy, drama, horror) to expand your range.

Building a Community

  • Join a Group: Find or start an improv group in your area.
  • Attend Shows: Watch live improvisation performances to get inspired.
  • Network: Connect with other improvisers online or in-person to share ideas and opportunities.

Part 6: Applications of Improvisation in Life

Improvisation skills aren't just for the stage. They can be incredibly useful in everyday life, enhancing your personal and professional interactions. This chapter explores how improv techniques can be applied to various aspects of life, making you more adaptable, creative, and confident in handling unexpected situations.

Enhancing Communication

  • Active Listening: Improves your ability to truly hear and respond to others.
  • Adaptability: Helps you stay calm and think on your feet in conversations.
  • Empathy: Encourages understanding and connecting with others’ perspectives.

Professional Development

  • Problem-Solving: Improves your ability to generate quick, creative solutions.
  • Teamwork: Fosters collaboration and support within teams.
  • Public Speaking: Increases confidence and ease in presenting ideas.

Personal Growth

  • Creativity: Enhances your ability to think outside the box.
  • Confidence: Builds self-assurance in various social settings.
  • Stress Management: Teaches you to embrace uncertainty and reduce anxiety.

Part 7: Attending Your First Improv Class

Starting an improv class can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. This section walks you through what to expect before, during, and after your first class, helping you to feel prepared and at ease.

Before You Get There

You might feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. It’s normal to wonder about what the class will be like, who will be there, and if you’ll be able to keep up. Remember, everyone is there to learn and have fun. Dress comfortably, bring an open mind, and maybe jot down a few notes on what you hope to gain from the experience.

When You Start

As the class begins, you’ll likely start with some icebreakers and warm-up exercises. These activities help everyone relax and get to know each other. You’ll be encouraged to participate, but it’s okay to take it at your own pace. The atmosphere is typically supportive and inclusive.

Midway Through

By the middle of the class, you’ll be more comfortable with your classmates and the activities. You’ll engage in various improv games and exercises that challenge your creativity and spontaneity. It’s a great time to embrace the “Yes, And...” principle and build on the ideas presented by others. You might find yourself laughing and enjoying the spontaneity of the exercises.

By the End

As the class wraps up, you’ll likely feel a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie with your fellow participants. The initial nerves will have given way to a feeling of confidence and excitement about what you’ve achieved. Many people leave their first improv class feeling more connected to others and more open to new experiences. Remember to reflect on what you’ve learned and how you can apply it to other areas of your life.
nine poeple stand upon a black stage in a semi circle, one stands in the middle with their back to us. @ chairs with backs to us are in the foreground. nine poeple stand upon a black stage in a semi circle, one stands in the middle with their back to us. @ chairs with backs to us are in the foreground. nine poeple stand upon a black stage in a semi circle, one stands in the middle with their back to us. @ chairs with backs to us are in the foreground.

Part 8: Improvisation for Companies, Associations, and Organisations

Improvisation techniques can be incredibly beneficial for companies, associations, and organisations. Whether in the UK, worldwide, face-to-face, or online, improv can transform the way teams interact and collaborate. This chapter explores how improv can be integrated into the workplace and the numerous benefits it brings.

Benefits of Improv in the Workplace

  • Fostering Collaboration: Improv exercises encourage team members to work together, listen actively, and build on each other’s ideas, fostering a collaborative environment.
  • Supporting Openness and Transparency: Improv promotes an atmosphere of trust and openness, where employees feel safe to express their ideas and take risks.
  • Overcoming Work Fears and Limiting Behaviours: Improv helps individuals overcome their fears and limiting behaviours by encouraging a mindset of experimentation and acceptance.
  • Freeing Up a Rigid Work Culture: Improv can break down hierarchical barriers and encourage a more flexible, dynamic work culture.

Research on the Benefits of Improv in Work

Research has shown that improv can significantly improve workplace dynamics. Here are some key studies:

Accessibility and Delivery of Improv for Beginners

Improv is accessible and can be delivered to total beginners effectively. When AndAlso delivers a workshop for an organisation, special attention is paid to the introverts in the room, ensuring they feel comfortable and included. Our experienced facilitators are skilled in addressing neurodiversity, making improv a powerful tool for all types of learners. While some companies might see a beginners improv course as a daunting challenge, more progressive organisations recognise the value in using improv to celebrate every individual, strengthen interpersonal relationships, and align with the company's culture and commitment to growth and development. Learn more about our business improv workshops here.

Conclusion

Improvisation is a versatile and rewarding skill that can enhance many areas of your life, from personal growth to professional development. By embracing the principles of improvisation, practising regularly, and pushing your creative boundaries, you can become a confident and skilled improviser. Remember, the key to successful improvisation is to stay present, support your partners, and most importantly, have fun! Happy improvising from all of us at AndAlso Improv!