For the last few years, Lori Herrmann, 48, has been doing things that scare her. So when a friend challenged her to take an improv comedy class with Defiance Comedy, she agreed — with hesitation.
“My expectation was that it was going to be scarier than it really was. I was afraid to be seen as being silly or stupid … but you get over that really quickly, because you’re having fun,” she said. “It’s really kind of like being a kid again; you just play and create stories with your friends like you did when you were young.”
Improv comedy can help you, like Lori, learn how to navigate the unexpected twists and turns of everyday life with a “yes, and” attitude — or simply spend an evening doubled over in laughter as others take the stage. Here’s where you can take improv classes in Indy or watch the pros at work.
Where to take improv comedy classes in Indianapolis
Whether you’re interested in performing someday or just want to give better presentations at work, an improv class can help you discover a new sense of play, learn to think on your feet and have a response for anything that comes your way.
CSz School of Improv
Get trained in the ComedySportz method employed by the pro performers at The Wit. Classes for adults cover five separate levels of training, which can take you all the way from the bare necessities to a performance level workshop in seven-week chunks.
The school also offers single-day workshops if you want to dip your toes in the water without committing to a seven-week course.
Crossroads Comedy Theater
Explore the collaborative longform improv style through a four-course program, with each course lasting eight weeks. This school also offers one-day improv basics workshops, as well as occasional improv practice groups, classes in partnership with Red Curb Improv Comedy and intensives in which students can further hone their skills.
Defiance Comedy
No experience is necessary in this intro class. In six weeks, you will learn the basics and get to watch seasoned experts. Classes take place at the Basile Theatre inside the IF building on Mass Ave.
Where to watch local improv comedy groups
Indianapolis has several improv groups made up of experienced entertainers who perform regularly.
The Wit Theater
This theater has been hosting improv events of all kinds since 1993. From family-friendly ComedySportz matches to monthly pay-what-you-can improv open mic mixers, there’s something for everyone — whether you want to join in the chaos or just sit back and laugh.
Red Curb Improv Comedy
This group bounces around a few local theaters, including IF Theatre and Carmel’s The Cat, and utilizes both short- and long-form improv in its shows. Owner and Artistic Director Will Pfaffenberger is no stranger to off-the-cuff wit; he got his start working on “The Bob & Tom Show.”
Defiance Improv
This offshoot of Defiance Comedy, a group known for producing original musical comedies for IndyFringe Festival, hosts improv student showcases every few months. Keep an eye out for fun seasonal events, too; last February, the troupe performed an improvised musical about the perils of dating apps.
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Shea Stapley is a Mirror Indy freelance contributor. You can reach her at sheajuliestapley@gmail.com.
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