I recently started taking improv classes at Second City, and by recently I mean several months ago. I began with Improv for Actors level 1. My teacher was a Mr. Tim Paul. It. Was. Awesome. I enjoyed it immediately and learned so much even within the confines of such a large class (19 students).
The best part of it was that not only was I learning improv skills but I was learning how to let go and trust myself and my instincts. It is something that I've struggled with as an actor and I'm always embarrassed to share with others, the ability to make a fool of yourself. I used to only be able to allow myself to go down that path when I felt really safe but with the help of my teachers at Second City I can now make a fool of myself anywhere and anytime!
I am of course being completely serious. It's a wonderful freedom that allows growth in all forms of acting, not just improv.
I took a break, like most everyone else, over the holidays and have now finished my second week in IFA 2 taught by Megan Hovde Wilkins..
I have also had the great fortune to audition and begin working with the musical Improv group The Cupid Players. A great group led by Brian Posen. They preform every Saturday at 1030pm at iO in the upstairs theater.
I began singing with them this past Saturday and immediately struck by how much I enjoyed watching this group perform. They are incredibly talented and I found myself really enjoying just watching them. This of course made me really excited to start working with them more regularly.
Hopefully more good things to come in the coming weeks as this new avenue is explored.
