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:

Emily Harnett (they/them) is thrilled to be teaching at PHIT. Emily is a life long actor, writer, comedian and professional laugher. They earned their BFA in Acting from Point Park University. Emily previously studied at Emerson College’s Comedic Arts program. They currently write for their sketch channel which is launching in the next few months and perform stand ups around Philly. They are passionate about teaching through play, exploration and acceptance.

What Others Say:

"A fantastic class where we were able to be creative but also learn how to do so in the best way!"

"Emily is wonderful!! They are so talented and have a great ability to teach. They have helped me become a better improviser and actor!"

"Em is really great at creating an inclusive environment."

"Em was great. You feel as good when they tell you what you need to improve upon as you do when they tell you how you're killing it."

"Em has a way of explaining things so they’re easy to follow. And Em didn’t hold back, if the scene didn’t work, they let you know why, and how to make it better which was so refreshing."