What is a typical class like?

Each class will have a specific focus (for example ‘being obvious’ or ‘saying yes’). After warming up, you will do exercises that work on that skill in different ways. Most of these will be in small groups, but there will normally be an opportunity to play in front of the class at the end. 

Will I have to interact with a lot of people, or will it be more watching?

Improv classes are very interactive, so most of the time you will be doing exercises, though there will normally be a short section at the end when some of the group play an exercise in front of the others. This is totally voluntary.

What happens if I get it wrong?

Improv is not about getting it wrong or right. It’s about seeing what happens. Your teacher may give you some suggestions (we call them ‘notes’), but that’s just to make it more fun for you and your partner. 

What if I get really nervous?

Lots of people get nervous when improvising, even experienced players. Nerves are a part of the process, so we encourage you to make friends with them. You can mention them to your teacher or class if you like, because you won’t be the only one feeling them.

What if I just don’t “get it” right away? 

Improv is a big, complex thing; there’s a lot to learn. No one ‘gets it’ right away. We recommend you just enjoy the journey and don’t worry about the destination. 

Are improv classes full of confident extroverts and actors?

Surprisingly, no. We have all kinds of different people in our classes, from all kinds of backgrounds. 

How is an online class different from an offline one?

Although there are some things that you can’t do online (like making eye contact or standing in a circle) both types of classes work on the same core skills, often with very similar exercises. In both cases, we create a friendly supportive atmosphere where you laugh as you learn.

Online classes are slightly smaller than offline ones. 

How do I prepare for the class?

It’s an improv class, so you don’t need to. Get yourself a cup of tea (and a notebook if you want to), turn on your laptop and you’re ready to go. 

What if I’ve never done improv before?

Don’t worry, our beginner’s classes are exactly the right place for you. Your teacher will start from the very beginning and explain what you are doing and why at every stage. 

How many people will be in the class?

The maximum number of people is fourteen, though people do miss classes because of illness, work or family commitments. If there are five or fewer, your teacher may postpone the class.

Will I have my camera on the whole time?

We recommend keeping your camera on, yes. It helps to connect with your group and teacher, which is a big part of what 

Will I have to perform in front of the entire group?

No! In improv, you never have to do anything you don’t want to do. Your teacher will give you opportunities to try simple games in front of the class, but if that’s too much for you, that’s no problem at all. 

What if I have tech issues during class?

Zoom is very simple, but sometimes technical issues do arise. If that happens, your teacher will work with you to resolve them. 

How do we deal with lag?

Lag (a slight delay) is an inevitable part of any video conferencing platform and you will soon get used to it. Two quick recommendations are to put your hand up if you have something to say with the whole group and to finish your sentences clearly in smaller groups (ie not to talk forever). 

What platform do you use and how does it work?

For our online classes, we use Zoom, which is a very simple video conferencing platform. If you have it downloaded already, you just click on the link we send you and you will be in the ‘waiting room’, from where your teacher will let you into the ‘meeting’. If you do not have it downloaded already, we recommend you click on the link a half hour before

Do I have to share personal information during scenes or exercises?

Apart from your name, you don’t have to share anything at all. 

What if I have accessibility needs?

We try to make improv as accessible as we can, so if there is anything we can do to make your experience more comfortable, you can email us at hello@andalsoimprov.com. You can also mention it on your booking form.