7 Calgary improv classes you can take to try something new

Looking for a creative outlet for your energy? Are you witty and quick with comebacks? Improvisational theatre, or improv, might be the right fit for you. Most or all of what is performed is created in the moment and it’s a form of live theatre in which the plot, characters, dialogue of a game, and scene or story are made up while you’re watching it.

For your consideration, we’ve complied a list of places around Calgary you can take improv classes and perhaps ignite a new passion.

Improv Guild

What: The Improv Guild offers two levels of classes. Level one is for beginners and the say you will learn the building blocks of Improv from one of the foremost experts in the art. Level two builds on what you’ve learnt in level one and will introduce advance techniques to your performance.
Where: Wildflower Centre – 3363 Spruce Drive SW
When:
- Level 1 Improv: Thursdays from April 21 to May 12; 7 to 9 p.m.
- Level 2 Improv: Thursdays from May 19 to June 9; 7 to 9 p.m.
Cost: Find out by contacting 403-703-4705 or [email protected]

Calgary Improv

Musical improv

What: A musical improv course where you can learn how to craft songs in the moment using structure, emotion, and content. Participants will develop their ability to sing with improvised musical accompaniment. The course is co-produced by two Calgary improv companies, The Kinkonauts, and Obviously Improv.
Where: The Kinkonauts LAB – 112 16th Avenue NW (2nd Floor)
When: May 1, 8, 15, 29 from 1 to 3 p.m.
Cost: $125

New improv games

What: An improv course where you create new improv games while playing around with existing game formats. The course is co-produced by two Calgary improv companies, The Kinkonauts, and Obviously Improv.
Where: The Kinkonauts LAB – 112 16th Avenue NW (2nd Floor)
When: Saturdays from May 7 to June 4 (No class May 21); 4 to 6 p.m.
Cost: $125

Loose Moose Theatre Company

Introduction to Improvisation

What: Introduction to Improvisation class is for adults 18 and older and will offer an introduction to basic improvisation skills and training techniques and exercises. Classes are participatory and designed to be low stress and a whole lot of fun.
Where: Loose Moose Theatre Company – 1235 26 Avenue SE
When: Saturdays, from April 9 to 30; 3 to 5:30 p.m.
Cost: $125 plus registration fee

International Improvisation School 2016

What: This program is primarily designed as a gathering for improvisation performers and teachers who wish to have the opportunity to work directly with Dennis Cahill, Shawn Kinley, and the Loose Moose Theatre Company. The nature of this type of improvisational training is experiential and registrants will be expected to participate fully.
Where: Loose Moose Theatre Company – 1235 26 Avenue SE
When: July 25 to August 3
Cost: $1265 (before May 1), $1415 (after May 1)

Warm up

What: Warm up classes – Recommended for participants who have experience in improvisation, but without extensive background in techniques developed by Keith Johnstone, or for those who would like a review of the basic exercises and terminology which will be used during the course.
Where: Loose Moose Theatre Company – 1235 26 Avenue SE
When: July 24 and 25
Cost: $265 (before May 1), $290 (after May 1)

Teaching improv

What: Teaching course – Learn some techniques to make you a better teacher of improvisation. Some elements that will be explored: Awareness, Styles and a Toolkit for Teachers.
Where: Loose Moose Theatre Company – 1235 26 Avenue SE
When: August 5 and 6
Cost: $265 (before May 1), $290 (after May 1)