Philly Improv Theater

Improv 201: Characters + Relationships

This is where your work deepens.

Improv 201 builds on the foundation of Improv 101 and focuses on creating emotionally grounded characters in relationship. You’ll work on being visibly affected by your scene partner and environment, staying present, and identifying the behavioral patterns that give a scene momentum and depth.

Coaching becomes more specific at this level. You’ll be asked to make adjustments in the moment — try it again, refine it, and strengthen it. You’ll also begin practicing simple edits and heightening, learning how to support strong scenes and help great moments land.

By the end of the course, students are able to:

• Create distinct, emotionally grounded characters
• Sustain clear relationships through behavior
• Recognize and build on emerging patterns
• Adjust based on coaching in real time
• Support edits and heightening within a scene

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 201 is the second 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.

Prerequisite: PHIT Improv 101 (or equivalent experience), or permission from the Education Director. Students with prior training from other programs are welcome; the instructor and Education Director may recommend moving into a different level when appropriate and feasible, so students have the support and fundamentals they need to succeed.

Adults 18+

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

Policies: 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: MONDAY

Dates: March 16, 23, 30, April 6, 13, 20, 27. May 4

Time: 7PM - 9PM

Optional Showcase Prep / Make-Up Date: May 11

ShowCase: May 16

Room: Smith

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

About the Instructor:

Dave Allison is a Philadelphia based actor, director and educator; he also manages a devised company in the city. He holds his BFA in Acting from Arcadia University, and post grad has trained with the Pig Iron School and The Wilma Theatre. Dave has experience teaching all ages at a large variety of experience. At PHIT, Dave has taught all 4 core level classes, as well as electives like: La Ronde and Characters in Motion, a movement workshop for Improvisors. Dave has been featured in Philadelphia’s Fringe Festival, and has directed in local children’s theatres to Villanova’s student music theatre company. 

What Others Say:

 “I recommend class with Dave more than ice cream!” PHIT Student 101 & 201.

“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 improv in their own style. Each week was so much fun and I learned so much"

"A class with Dave is like taking a breath of fresh air. Any troubles, any feelings of nervousness or apprehension will disappear and be replaced with a willingness to try new things and take on new identities. His enthusiasm and energy is contagious and makes the 2 hours of fun fly by."

"Dave was very open. The class really worked well as a team and Dave fostered that. "

"Dave is passionate about teaching and improving his craft. I felt like the entire was extremely supported while also being challenged to grow. Dave is amazing!"