Improv Level 5: Musical Narrative

Improvised musicals are one of the most joyful, demanding, and rewarding formats in improv. Whether it’s The Sound of Music, Come From Away, Aladdin, or Six*, great musicals are driven by characters, conflict, emotion—and, of course, songs. So let’s make some up.

Over twelve weeks, you’lll focus on the storytelling power of music, letting songs emerge naturally from scenes, characters drive the story, and building a narrative without forcing plot. You’ll explore how songs serve the story, how to construct group numbers, and how to craft improvised musicals that feel effortless, cohesive, and alive.

This challenging course is for improvisers who are confident in both scene work and singing, ideally having completed our Level 4 “Intro to Musical Improv” or similar. If you’re new to musical improv but experienced in both longform and singing, feel free to get in touch to discuss whether the course is right for you.

All sessions are accompanied by live music, with teaching led by experienced musical improvisers from companies including The Maydays, Showstoppers, and more. Expect a supportive, challenging environment where you’ll be encouraged to take creative risks, trust your voice, and practise, practise, practise.

*If you don’t know your Rogers and Hammerstein from your Hudes and Miranda, don’t worry. Participants will be provided with a playlist of classic (and modern) musical songs, but do not need knowledge of specific styles and genres to complete the course.