Improv Asylum

I don’t know if I can do this.

You can do this! You really can! Improvisation is a technique that anyone can learn. All you need to do is be willing to let your imagination go. At Improv Asylum’s Training Center, you can learn the art of improvisation in a fun, creative, low-pressure environment. Come on, you’ve always wanted to do this. Stop hemming and hawing and ask us how. It will be the funniest class you’ve ever been a part of!

Do I have to start at Level 1?

Improv Asylum’s curriculum is a sequential learning process where students learn Improv Asylum’s technique of improvisation. Some students who have prior professional training at an equivalent training center may be allowed to begin at Level 2. Those students would need to speak with Norm Laviolette, the Director of the Training Center.

How long does each level last for?

Each level is 8 weeks long. If there is a holiday break during your class term, it could extend the course by a week or two. All weeks off are posted on-line and reviewed again at Orientation.

How long is each class?

Each class is two and a half hours long.

How big are the classes?

Classes require a minimum of six students. Classes are limited to 12 students to ensure that everyone gets enough stage time as well as feedback from the instructor.

Can I just show up?

It is important to pre-register for the class. If not enough students are enrolled, the class will be canceled. Also, you could show up for a class that is already maxed out. Therefore, we ask that you enroll in advance.

How much does it cost?

Each level costs $260. Payment is due in full with your registration form. The tuition is non-refundable unless the class is canceled. Course spots are on a first-come, first-served basis. If the course you select is filled, we will call you to make alternate arrangements. You may pay by check, cash or by Visa or MasterCard.

What else do I get?

Students in Improv Asylum’s Training Center receive a student ID good for free & reduced shows at Improv Asylum. You also get notifications of master workshops that are offered throughout the year. In addition, you get advance notification of Training Center electives.

Students in levels 3 and higher get the opportunity of stage time, as well. Students will have the opportunity to audition for a House Team to perform throughout the semester.

You also have an opportunity to make some cold hard cash. Participate in the Refer-a-friend program and you and your friend receive $25 towards your class. Get your company (or any company) to book us for a corporate show or corporate training and receive your next level for free. Free!

But that’s not all! Students in our Training Center are invited to Orientation on the first night of class (all levels) to find out about new and exciting things going on at Improv Asylum as well as in the Training Center. They are also invited to a Meet & Greet in the first week of each term where they have the opportunity to meet all of the instructors in the training center, mingle with other students and enjoy a complimentary pasta buffet dinner, a complimentary drink and a free ticket to the main stage show that night!

What happens when I graduate?

There are six levels in Improv Asylum’s Training Center. At the end of level 6, your class puts on its own graduation show. Grad. shows are fully produced performances. We provide you the space, a musician, a technician and staff. You create the show. Then invite your friends and family to come see how all of your hard work and money has paid off. And best of all – it’s FREE! (Reservations are recommended as most grad. shows sell out.)

Who teaches the courses?

Classes in Improv Asylum’s Training Center are taught by professional, improvisational actors. The actors are current main stage actors at Improv Asylum or alums of Improv Asylum’s main stage cast. Click here to find out more about the instructors.

Where are the classes held?

All classes are held at Improv Asylum locations. Either on the main stage or in the front room at 216 Hanover Street or at The Loft or The Studio at 215 Hanover Street, Boston.

If I take a class during the winter, how will I know if you cancel class?

We try not to cancel classes as scheduling make-up classes is difficult. However, if the weather conditions are really bad we may have to cancel class. In those instances, your instructor will call you to let you know. We will also post it on our web site (on the Training Center page) and on the outgoing message on the class voicemail (617.263.6887 ×13). In addition, we notify Channel 7 (WHDH) which will list Improv Asylum in its school closings.

Will I be with the same group level to level?

While it always helps to work with the same people on an ongoing basis, it doesn’t always work out that way. Some people need to switch to a different night for their class due to work or personal reasons. Sometimes two classes within a level get combined due to enrollment. We do, however, ask that when you sign up for Level 5 that you commit to going on to Level 6 so that you have two levels to work as a group towards your grad. show.

What kind of feedback do we get?

Throughout each level, the instructor will have opportunities to provide feedback to students individually as well as to the class as a whole. Your class instructor and the Director of the Training Center are always available to address any questions you may have. You yourself also have the opportunity to provide feedback on your instructor, your class and our Training Center in an evaluation form filled out at the end of each term.

How do I get more practice time?

Many classes like to get together outside of class time and some go on to form a troupe from their class. Improv Asylum instructors and actors are available to hire to be a director for your troupe if you put one together. Class troupes also have access to Improv Asylum rehearsal space for a discounted rate. Each term Improv Asylum holds House Teams auditions as an opportunity to give students in the Training Center stage time.

What else do I need to know?

Sign up for your next level as soon as possible. It’s never too early! The earlier you sign up, the better the chance that your class will happen and we won’t have to cancel it.

Anything else I need to do?

Yeah. Sign up! Like we said, it’ll be the funniest class you’ve ever been a part of!