How to Find Improv Classes in Los Angeles

As the entertainment capital of the world, there is no shortage of acting classes in Los Angeles. As a subset of acting classes, improv classes provide excellent comedic training. Theatrical and commercial actors can also benefit from the timing and creativity provided by improv classes. Here are some ways to find improv classes in Los Angeles.

Things You'll Need

• Computer

Instructions

1. Assess your goals for taking improv classes. This will help you determine which class is right for you. Some people wish to take improv classes to improve their comedic timing, while others wish to establish various characters they can easily play.

2. Ask friends and acquaintances if they know of any good improv classes. If you have any friends that are actors, writers, directors, casting directors, agents or work any other venue of the entertainment business, they can likely give you more personal feedback on classes.

3. Consider your finances. Improv classes are usually about $200 per month. Many schools offer 6- to 8-week improv workshops for $300 to $400.

4. Contact a few different schools and discuss your goals with them. They should be able to tell you if they have classes that will work well for you (see Resources below). Ask if you can audit a class to get a good idea of the format and teaching techniques.

5. Go to an improv show at schools that interest you. Most improv schools feature their own improv troops that perform regularly. The Second City schools has troops of different class levels that perform every Sunday. The Groundlings performs shows nightly Wednesday through Sunday.

6. Read acting message boards. Backstage West and Showfax are two major message boards where actors share information on a variety of professional topics. Search for information on the improv classes that interest you and read what others have to say about them. You can also start your own thread and post a topic asking for information on a particular improv school (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Many improv schools require you to audition. This is so they can get an idea of your skill level and place you in an appropriate class.

Resources

• Second City offers improv classes in Los Angeles.
• The Groundlings is another improv school in Los Angeles.
• Check out IOI West for more classes.
• Backstage West Message Board
• Showfax Message Board