Why Improv?

1. It’s fun.
2. It’s funny.

But seriously!

Improvisation is a positive, supportive way to create, collaborate and communicate. The innovative, “yes, and” nature of our work provides an opportunity to connect with peers while remaining flexible and accepting. It’s a safe place to experiment with ideas and to take creative risks.

Our work is process focused.  Many sessions culminate in public performance, however, the primary goal is not to produce a polished final product. Rather, it is first of all an exploration of collaborative performance through supporting each other’s ideas. Participants are encouraged to express themselves creatively, finding new ways to connect and communicate.

But, most importantly, it’s fun. Really, really fun.

Some of the ways Improv is useful Beyond the Stage:

Increased Mindfulness

Team Building

Flexible Thinking

Resilience

Developing Trust

Can I just say, this was a kid who used to lay down in the middle of the grocery store aisle and scream his bloody head off, and I’m not describing toddler years. This was ages 4-7. Around 7, he began to realize that he was weird and different and his self-esteem started to plummet. I will never win Mom of the Year, but around that age, I listened to my Mama intuition and signed him up for his first improv class. He did a 180 and has been sailing ever since. Last night, he won a small award for being the most in character. I’m not saying that early intervention/social skills/therapy do not have their place and they have been invaluable for us but “art (creativity) is such a salve” as a friend just so brilliantly said. If you have a kid on the spectrum or that’s just anywhere left of center, find them a creative outlet. I don’t even want to imagine the place we would be without it. – Parent