Philly Improv Theater

Improv 101: Foundations

New to improv? This is where you begin.      

Improv 101 introduces the core skills that make scenes work: listening, agreement (“Yes, And”), supporting your partner, making clear choices, and recognizing patterns as they emerge.

Each week, you’ll learn specific tools and practice them through structured exercises, games, and guided scene work. You’ll receive supportive, practical coaching designed to help you grow — not just “get laughs.”

You don’t need to be funny or have experience, and you won’t be asked to perform alone. You just need a willingness to participate and try.

By the end of 8 weeks, students are able to:

All 8-week classes conclude with an optional showcase performance — a celebratory opportunity to share your work with friends and family.

Optional Showcase Prep Session (Tentative): Reserved for a make-up class if needed. If not, it becomes an optional showcase run-through (practice in a supportive room, review logistics, final notes, and a chance to meet other PHIT students).

Improv 101 is the first step in PHIT’s structured progression (101–401). Each level builds on the last.

Progression & Feedback: PHIT follows a structured level system (101–401). Placement and advancement are based on demonstrated skill development, not just attendance. Instructors provide ongoing feedback and guidance to help students choose the level that best supports their growth — so students can build strong fundamentals before moving on.

Adults 18+. 

No prerequisite.

Class size: Most sections run with 10–12 students. Enrollment is capped at 14 to support coaching, reps, and stage time.

Please note: All sales are final. No refunds. No credit for future sessions. No transfers. All courses must be paid in full before the first class. Please consider your schedule carefully before you register.

Day: WEDNESDAY

Dates: Sept 30, Oct 7, 14, 21, 28, Nov 4, 11, 18

Time: 7 PM - 9 PM

Optional Showcase Prep / Make-Up Date: SUNDAY NOV 22

ShowCase: SUNDAY NOV 29

Room: Brown-Martin

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

About the Instructor:

Michael “Dola” Amendola (he/they) is a Philadelphia & NYC-based performer-creator, and educator with a strong interest in the personal, creative and social impact of “play.” He has performed in over 60 productions across the US including 600 shows with the Off-Broadway comedy hit, Drunk Shakespeare, and 100+ performances as Puck in A Midsummer Night’s Dream with the ASC. He earned his BFA in Acting from Texas State University and is pursuing an MFA in Devised Performance at the Pig Iron School. He has also studied clown extensively with many world-renowned teachers. In addition to teaching at PHIT, Dola has led workshops in devising, clown, improv and character creation for Circadium School for Contemporary Circus, Austin Shakespeare, Cannonball Festival, and the American Shakespeare Center.

What others Say:

"Dola is the best!"

“Dola was incredibly engaged and helped us see how improv skills apply both on stage and in everyday life.”

"This was the most beneficial workshop I've been to in years. I was able to reconnect my mind and body to acting. I have immediate lessons to bring back to my students."