Improv for Gamers

In this five-week improv workshop for gamers, we will incorporate improv activities that encourage a sense of playful fun and spontaneity. You’ll learn and practice a variety of skills and concepts that blend improv techniques with elements relevant to gaming and role play. Here’s just some of what will be covered:

Character Development: Explore techniques to create and develop unique and interesting characters for gaming sessions. Develop character motivations, backstories, and quirks.

Storytelling: Improv techniques can be used to enhance storytelling skills. You’ll learn how to create engaging narratives on the spot, adding depth and excitement to your gaming experiences.

World/Scene Building: Improv often involves creating scenes on the fly. Gamers can benefit from learning how to build immersive and dynamic scenes during gameplay, making the experience more enjoyable for themselves and others.

Quick Thinking and Decision-Making: Improv encourages quick thinking and adaptability. Gamers may practice making decisions on the spot, responding to unexpected situations, and thinking creatively to overcome challenges in the game.

Collaboration and Teamwork: Improv is inherently collaborative, and participants develop teamwork skills. This is particularly valuable in group gaming scenarios where effective communication and collaboration are essential.

Building Confidence: Improv can help you build confidence in your abilities, both in improvisation and in gaming roles. More confidence leads to more engaging gameplay.

Non-Verbal Communication: Improv often emphasizes non-verbal communication cues. This can be beneficial in gaming, where players may need to convey information or intentions without explicitly stating them.

Adaptation to Different Game Genres: Learn how to adapt improv techniques to different gaming genres, whether it's fantasy, sci-fi, horror, or others.

Participants can expect a mix of practical exercises, group activities, and discussions to enhance their improv and gaming skills.

Meets once a week for five weeks.

Prerequisites: Prefered level 101 improv from any training center or permission from the Education Director.

Adults 18+

Please note ALL SALES FINAL. NO REFUNDS. NO CREDITS.  PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR SCHEDULE CAREFULLY BEFORE REGISTERING.

Day: SUNDAY

Dates: 4/7, 4/14, 4/21, 4/28, 5/5

Time: 1:00 P.m.  – 3:00pm

Make-Up/Snow Day: SUNDAY 5/12/2024 (Mother's Day)  1:00 p.m.

Class Room: SMITH (this is an acessible space)

NO SHOWCASE PERFORMANCE OFFERED WITH THIS WORKSHOP

Theater Location: Hamilton Family Arts Center 62 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

About the Instructor:

Devin is an actor and deviser based in Philadelphia. He is a graduate of the University of the Arts / Pig Iron Devised Performance Program. Devin grew up in Alaska, studied Physics at Notre Dame, built data centers in Des Moines, and somehow wound up at clown school.

What others say:

"Devin is a great teacher! He made class comfortable, fun, and challenging!"

"Devin brings so much richness and intention into his curriculum...I most valued his ability to meet people of different skill levels where they're at with appropriately challenging insights and guidance."

"Devin will challenge you in class, and give you the focus to improve. He knows that being funny and being not funny are both on the path to improving."

Skills Lab: Edits & Tag-Outs

This Lab will focus on assorted techniques around tag-outs (for heightening) and Edits (used to change to a new scene) Getting better at Editing and Tag-outs is something learned best through experience. A well timed edit or tag-out can make a story sizzle. One that comes too soon, or too early can undercut the energy and flow of the story. Come to this Lab and get some support and practice.

Part targeted workout, part practice group, Labs are open to anyone with some level 101 experience and above. It is strongly recommended for your own benefit that you have some familiarity with any Skills Lab topic as instructors provide targeted coaching and feedback around that topic to help you gain more mastery applying it in performance.

Skills Labs are *not intended* for people with ZERO improv experience. Skills Labs are open to levels 101 + from any training center

Adults 18+

Please check your schedule carefully before you register. All sales are final. There are no refunds, exchanges, or credits.

Day: SUNDAY

Date:April 28, 2024

Time: 1:00 p.m -2:30 p.m.

Theater Location: Hamilton Family Arts Center 62 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Room: Wolfson Art Room

About the Instructor:

Nick has performed improv comedy in Philadelphia for nine years and can currently be seen with The N-Crowd, No Diggity, Breeders, and the indie team Sizzler Hour. Besides teaching at PHIT and The Lab, he has years of experience coaching and directing improv projects including the newest PHIT Harold team Main Dog! More than anything, he is excited to help new improvisors find what they are great at and fall in love with the art form of improv comedy!

What Others Say:

"Nick was a fantastic teacher. I loved getting useful notes from him, and I loved how seriously he takes the class."

"Nick inspires us to take ourselves seriously in the class, while still having a lot of fun. I’ve learned a ton in Nick’s class and can’t recommend it enough."

"Nick was fantastic and a ton of fun!"

"Nick is great. He is relaxed, and he explains concepts and exercises in an easily digestible way. His astute feedback was instrumental in helping me tweak my short comings while trying to grasp the information throughout the last 8 weeks. What I also really appreciate is that Nick used feedback to praise our work in class (and in the showcase!), which is a HUGE confidence booster when you're in the hotspot. "

Take a Drop In Workshop!

Join this 90-minute improv workshop to get a taste of the fun awaiting you in our 8-week Level 101 improv class!

You'll dive into key improv concepts like Yes And, spontaneity, and creative collaboration, and even try your hand at improvised scene work.

These workshops are perfect for anyone, regardless of experience level, age, or background. Whether you're looking to explore improv, boost public speaking confidence, or just have fun and meet new people, these workshops are for you.

A $30 non-refundable fee reserves your spot.  You may join a drop in without committing to register for a full class.

We're so sure you'll love it, though, that we'll give you a promo code for $30 off a full class when you decide to join, essentially giving you a FREE WORKSHOP!

Students must sign up for full class within 5 days of attending in order to apply their $30 fee to a full class registration. **

Drop In fee may only be applied to a single level 101 class for the upcoming session. Policy prohibits the doubling up or simultaneous use of discount codes with other promotional discounts.

Adults 18+

ALL SALES ARE FINAL. No refunds. No credits.  No Exchanges. Not transferable. Please check your schedule carefully before registering.

Day: Monday

Date: 4/29

Time: 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

About the Instructor:

Nick has performed improv comedy in Philadelphia for nine years and can currently be seen with The N-Crowd, No Diggity, Breeders, and the indie team Sizzler Hour. Besides teaching at PHIT and The Lab, he has years of experience coaching and directing improv projects including the newest PHIT Harold team Main Dog! More than anything, he is excited to help new improvisors find what they are great at and fall in love with the art form of improv comedy!

What Others Say:

"Nick was a fantastic teacher. I loved getting useful notes from him, and I loved how seriously he takes the class."

"Nick inspires us to take ourselves seriously in the class, while still having a lot of fun. I’ve learned a ton in Nick’s class and can’t recommend it enough."

"Nick was fantastic and a ton of fun!"

"Nick is great. He is relaxed, and he explains concepts and exercises in an easily digestible way. His astute feedback was instrumental in helping me tweak my short comings while trying to grasp the information throughout the last 8 weeks. What I also really appreciate is that Nick used feedback to praise our work in class (and in the showcase!), which is a HUGE confidence booster when you're in the hotspot. "

Take a Drop In Workshop!

Join this 90-minute improv workshop to get a taste of the fun awaiting you in our 8-week Level 101 improv class!

You'll dive into key improv concepts like Yes And, spontaneity, and creative collaboration, and even try your hand at improvised scene work.

These workshops are perfect for anyone, regardless of experience level, age, or background. Whether you're looking to explore improv, boost public speaking confidence, or just have fun and meet new people, these workshops are for you.

A $30 non-refundable fee reserves your spot.  You may join a drop in without committing to register for a full class.

We're so sure you'll love it, though, that we'll give you a promo code for $30 off a full class when you decide to join, essentially giving you a FREE WORKSHOP!

Students must sign up for full class within 5 days of attending in order to apply their $30 fee to a full class registration. **

Drop In fee may only be applied to a single level 101 class for the upcoming session. Policy prohibits the doubling up or simultaneous use of discount codes with other promotional discounts.

Adults 18+

ALL SALES ARE FINAL. No refunds. No credits.  No Exchanges. Not transferable. Please check your schedule carefully before registering.

Day: Tuesday

Date: 4/30

Time: 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

About the Instructor:

Johnny has been performing/teaching Improv since LITERAL middle school. Even studying/performing Improv for 2 additional years in College while at Conservatory in NYC. He's a HUGE fan of having as much fun as you possibly can whilst under the necessary guise of learning important skills and knowledge: an approach he strives to implement in any and every class he teaches. He also LOVES traveling! :)

What Others Say:

"I really like working with Johnny. He has a great personality and is extremely warm and welcoming. "

"Johnny was very affirming and really made sure we understood what was going on."

"Johnny is so nice and respectful. He makes you feel great."

"Johnny is a really good instructor: he is knowledgeable and he is fun and makes each class interesting and unique! He provides you with just enough structure to successfully master each exercise. He is also very welcoming with all the students. "

"Johnny is the perfect teacher for 101: You'll have a lot of fun, you'll laugh a lot, and you'll learn what the heck improv is. He gives feedback, but doesn't push you any harder than you'd want to be pushed. He's encouraging and will help you build the confidence you need to give your first performance."

Intro to Improv:  Your HAROLD training starts here!

You will start learning basic improv and performance skills, practicing concepts like making your partner look good, “Yes, and..” creating mimed objects and environments, establishing relationships, and holding on to an emotional point of view. Finally you start to apply these skills to make up short scenes with a partner. Meets once a week for eight weeks.

Prerequisites: None!

Adults 18+

Please note: ALL SALES FINAL. NO REFUNDS. NO CREDITS. PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR SCHEDULE CAREFULLY BEFORE REGISTERING.

Day: MONDAY

Dates: 5/20, 6/3, 6/10, 6/17, 6/24, 7/1, 7/8, 7/15

NO CLASS MONDAY 5/27

Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Make-up/Snow Date: 7/22

Showcase Date/Time: Sat 7/28 12:30 pm - 2 pm

Class Room: Smith (all classrooms are accessible spaces)

Theater Location: Hamilton Family Arts Center 62 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

About the Instructor:

Paul Hazen (he/him) began improvising music as a jazz saxophonist in high school and went on to earn his Bachelor’s of Music degree from Temple University. A lifelong musical theater fan, Paul has also played and conducted in many pit orchestras over the years and is one of the founding members of The Good Kids musical improv team. Paul is an ensemble member of the musical team Thank You, Places where he combines his love of comedy, theater, and making up songs. In addition to performing, Paul is also an amateur cocktail enthusiast known for making his own syrups and super juices and wearing an obnoxious hipster bartender’s apron at both appropriate and inappropriate occasions. And although he loves musical improv with his whole heart, Paul’s favorite and most important role will always be husband and father.

What Others Say:

“Paul is encouraging and positive while also giving the feedback we need to improve.”

“Paul is amazing”

"I spent a multi-decade career as a communication creator, and this was one of the BEST learning and creative experiences that I ever had."

"incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and encouraging. "

Intermediate Improv:Scene work

You continue to practice the skills learned in 101 as you progress toward performing HAROLD. Learn how to listen for, and heighten ideas, create 2nd beats, and use simple edits while continuing to create and  build objects, environment, clear character relationships, strong points of view, and close ensemble work. Meets once a week for eight weeks.

Prerequisites: PHIT Improv 101 or permission from the Education Director.

Adults 18+

Please note ALL SALES FINAL. NO REFUNDS. NO CREDITS.  PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR SCHEDULE CAREFULLY BEFORE REGISTERING.

Day: Monday

Dates: 5/20, 6,3, 6/10, 6/17, 6/24, 7/1, 7/8, 7/15

NO CLASS MONDAY 5/27

Time: 7:00pm – 9:00pm

Make-Up/Snow Day/Time: 7/22

Showcase Date/Time: Sat 7/27 10:30 a.m.

Class Room: Brown- Martin (this is an accessible space)

Theater Location: Hamilton Family Arts Center 62 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

About the Instructor:

Tenara is a theater maker and educator with a strong background and interest in improvisation. She is currently earning her Masters of Fine Arts in Devised Performance from the University of the Arts/Pig Iron Theatre Company. Tenara teaches Improv 101, 201, and 301.

What others say:

"Tenara's teaching style was great in building everyone up in addition to offering ways to grow"

“She knows her stuff. It’s a blast; just take it!”

"Tenara's class makes it impossible for me to hate Mondays!"

"Tenara is whip-smart."

Intro to Improv:  Your HAROLD training starts here!

You will start learning basic improv and performance skills, practicing concepts like making your partner look good, “Yes, and..”, creating mimed objects and environments, establishing relationships, and holding on to an emotional point of view. Finally you start to apply these skills to make up short scenes with a partner. Meets once a week for eight weeks.

Prerequisites: None!

Adults 18+

Please note ALL SALES FINAL. NO REFUNDS. NO CREDITS.  PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR SCHEDULE CAREFULLY BEFORE REGISTERING.

Day: Tuesday

Dates: 5/21, 5/28, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9

Time: 7:00-9:00 PM

Make-up/Snow Date: 7/23/2024

Showcase Date/Time: Sat 7/27 2:30 p.m.

Class Room: Smith (this is an acessible space)

Theater Location: Hamilton Family Arts Center 62 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

About the Instructor:

Dave Allison is a Philadelphia-based Educator and Performer. He holds his BFA in Acting from Arcadia University. Outside of his undergrad he has studied at Second City Training Center in Chicago and the Pig Iron School in Philly, and has an extensive background in Martial Arts. Dave is currently teaching students from Kindergarten through Adulthood with Walnut Street Theatre, ASAP Drama, Rooted Tree Productions, Wolf Performing Arts Center and now improv at PHIT!

What Others Say:

“Dave is an amazing instructor! He immediately made everyone feel welcomed and free to express themselves and be goofy and expressive. His lessons had a clear focus and were full of information helpful to beginners. He provided direct feedback and an energetic attitude that inspired everyone. Love that guy.”

“I think what I loved most is Dave respecting what each person brought to each exercise and helping them improve in their own style. Each week was so much fun and I learned so much”

"He is respectful and engaged. He treats each of us as an individual. He is so vested in us learning and enjoying. I would want to take all the classes with him!"

"you have to do it. It’s so much fun and Dave is so engaging. He will give you feedback and find your personal strengths. He is patient and creative."

Intermediate- Advanced Improv: Story, Games, 3rd beats: You are well on your way to performing a HAROLD.

You will begin to learn pattern games and different ways to pull an idea or premise, create 3 beat stories, and learn a few ways to initiate and play group games. You can expect to receive more specific and individualized notes and side coaching with a short range goal of performing a HAROLD. Meets once a week for eight weeks.

Prerequisites: PHIT level 201 or permission of the Education Director

Adults 18+

Please note ALL SALES FINAL. NO REFUNDS. NO CREDITS.  PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR SCHEDULE CAREFULLY BEFORE REGISTERING.

Day: TUESDAY

Dates: 5/21, 5/28, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9

MAKE-Up/SNOW DATE: 7/23

Time: 7:00-9:00 PM

Showcase Date/Time:  Sat 7/27 12:30 p.m.

Class Room: Brown-Martin (this is an accessible space)

Theater Location: Hamilton Family Arts Center 62 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

About the Instructor:

Chris Esperance is a comedian, writer, improviser based in Philadelphia, PA. Chris co-hosted the Mad Ethnic Comedy festival which included a variety of improv, podcast and stand-up acts from the tri-state area. He has improvised on Harold, House teams including Metropolis and Dunk Tank and several Indie teams in his years as a performer. Chris was accepted to Magnet Theater’s REMIX sketch diversity showcase and wrote/performed in PIT’s NYC Sketchfest. He has trained at the Philadelphia Improv Theater (PHIT) and the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB-NY) and writes for the sketch comedy team Pagliacci (@pagliaccicomedy) with the Boogiemanja sketch comedy collective.

What Others Say:

 "Seriously thank you so much for the last 8 weeks it was truly life changing and opened up a door which was slowly closing in my life. For that I am forever grateful.""You set such a great tone for the class that made it easy to experiment and let our guards down and try new things. I had a fabulous time and can't wait to do it again."

"I plan on staying with this, and will register for the next 201 class given in the Fall. You have set a very high bar for instructors though. Thanks again for EVERYTHING."