Philly Improv Theater

Improv 201: Characters + Relationships

Improv 201 takes the skills from Improv 101 and helps you make scenes that feel more alive, connected, and specific. You’ll focus on emotion-driven characters in relationship—being visibly affected by your partner and your environment, staying present, and finding the behavioral patterns that give a scene momentum and depth. You’ll receive clearer, more specific coaching so you can make an adjustment and try it again right away. You’ll also begin practicing simple edits and heightening—learning how to support strong scenes and help gre moments land. Improv 201 is the second step in PHIT’s core training path.

Prerequisite: PHIT Improv 101 (or equivalent experience), or permission from the Education Director.

Adults 18+

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: MONDAY

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

Time: 7PM - 9PM

Practice / Make-Up Date (Tentative): May 11 Held only if needed as a make-up. If not needed, it may become an optional practice.

ShowCase: May 16

Room: TBD

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!"