Lower Left Improv proudly offers something for everyone who is interested in improvisational comedy. Whether you are new to improv and want to see what it’s all about, have some experience and want to continue developing your skills, or are a seasoned performer looking to hone your craft, we have something for you! You must be 18+ for adult classes.
Classes are held at the Lower Left Studio in the Main Mall in downtown Durango (835 Main Avenue, Suite 209) and at the Sunflower Theater in Cortez (8 E. Main St).
Jump in — this will be fun! No experience necessary. This 4-week class will introduce you to (or reacquaint you with) the art of improvisational comedy. The secret (shhh) to learning the fundamentals of improv is simple: allow yourself to have fun! We will explore the basic elements of scene work and play, play, play! You will learn some of the basic improv concepts including:
Now we’re having fun! This class builds on the fundamentals established in Green 1. What you and your fellow performers build together will be the stuff of legend. We’ll focus on character development to establish where the characters are and why we’re watching them. In this class, you will learn:
Advanced sounds scary, but it’s not! Character development is nothing without good relationships (Freud was right!). What makes this class advanced is discovering the depths of relationships. Why does this scene matter? Why are we watching this now? The class will culminate in a “Backyard Show” at the Lower Left Studio, if you want to participate. In this class you will learn:
Be in your truth and the funny will come! Introduction to long form improvisation will help you unleash the skills you have honed in the Green Module. Scene work, characters, and environment all come into play as we push the limits! In this class you will learn:
Improv is like a box of chocolates…. Long form improvisation has as many forms as it has ideas. We will introduce and play with different form structures. In this class you will be introduced to:
Lights up! Utilizing everything we’ve learned so far we will collectively build our own show from the ground up. What kind of form did we like? What made us smile? Where did we shine? Build a form with your legendary fellow classmates. We’ll weave multiple scenes into a cohesive narrative while experimenting with story arcs, character evolution, and building toward a triumphant finale.
Prepare to be amazed!
Improvise to music? “But I can’t sing,” you say. No worries — no singing experience is necessary! This class will cover the basics of musical improv, such as rhyming (or not), song structure, and working with an accompanist! You’ll learn how to incorporate songs into scenes, explore the dynamics of solos, duets, and full group numbers. Some improv experience is helpful, but not necessary, for this amazing experience.
Hear those flash bulbs popping? It’s showtime! We’ll meet for 3 weeks to rehearse and design a custom-built improv show. You and your fellow performers will learn about hosting, scene progression, common games, and long form structures. We’ll plan how you want your showcase to look, and then (drum roll) host a full show on the DAC stage! Showcase performances have been wildly successful (and have sold a boatload of tickets). A guaranteed good time. Previous classes and instructor approval required.
This is an introductory class for teens! We’ll help you build a strong, confident foundation in improv. Learn how to “yes, and” while creating fun characters and being your authentic self on stage. At the end, students will put on a show for friends and family on the Stillwater Light Box!
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