Our most popular class for beginners

Start Your Improv Journey with Improv 101

Have fun, make new friends, and laugh a lot. All in a safe, supportive environment. No experience necessary.

Learn More & Register

Whether you want to perform or never want to perform

Many people who take this class aren’t trying to become performers—at least not at first.

They’re looking to meet new people, build confidence, get out of their routine, and do something fun that isn’t work or screens.

It’s a supportive, low-pressure introduction to improv where you’ll laugh a lot, connect with others, and get more comfortable thinking on your feet. No experience required.

But it’s also the gateway into everything we offer. If you do want to perform—or think you might someday—this is where that path begins.

Register for Intro to Improv

Why you’ll love this class

  • Build confidence speaking in groups

  • Get out of your comfort zone in a supportive way

  • Become more present and less “in your head”

  • Break out of the work-home routine

  • Do something creative just for yourself

  • Laugh—a lot

What You’ll Learn

  • The fundamentals of improv teamwork

  • How to listen and respond in the moment

  • Basics of character and storytelling

  • How humor works (and why)

  • The core skills behind ComedySportz® and other improv styles

From here, you can continue into our full improv training program—including performance opportunities—or simply take the class for the life skills and the experience.

One of Eight Great Comedy Schools from Around the Nation

“ComedySportz offers classes that are geared towards those who are interested in improving people skills and self-confidence in life in general, not just actors and comedians.”

— Paste Magazine

What People Are Saying About Improv 101

“The skills transfer very well to work and life”

“These classes provide a safe environment to learn new tools for listening, creative problem solving, team work, and public speaking and performance. And did I mention it is just a freaking great time?”

— Krista A

“It’s playtime for adults”

“You get to go have fun every week. What could be better than that?

— Alex Falcone

“Taking Improv 101 literally changed my life. It’s affected everything from my relationships to my career. And it’s become my community and made lifelong friends. Stepping out of my comfort zone into class was the best decision I ever made — and it turned out that it wasn’t uncomfortable at all!”

> Andy Berkowitz, Founder & CEO, TeamSnap & Suggestion Ox

Got Questions?

We’re here to help!

  • Not sure if this class is right for you? Let’s talk.

  • Already have some improv experience? Let us guide you to the right class.

  • Need something else? Let us know!

education@portlandcomedy.com
(503) 236-8888, ext 4

Questions about Intro to Improv Class

  • Improv is about listening and responding honestly, not being snappy and wacky. We teach you NOT to think fast, but to listen intently and just react naturally.

  • First of all, you’re never put on the spot to “perform” in front of other people. Our exercises are done in groups where it’s all about supporting one another. It’s natural to have some nerves, but within the first class you’re realize there’s nothing to be scared of.

  • Absolutely not! We often have students in their 60s, 70s, or beyond. (Our ComedySportz team has many performers in their 50s, 60s, and 70s.)

  • Almost certainly. Our students come from all walks of life. Portland Comedy Theater is an accepting, supportive space where we truly believe that everybody belongs. Our beginning improv class usually looks like a cross-section of your neighborhood, all ages, sizes, genders, jobs, and interests.

  • Even if you’ve taken an improv class before, you may find that this is a good entry point to the “ComedySportz way” of improv.

    But if you are concerned this might be too basic, just contact us and we’ll help you figure out the right place to start.

  • Improv is for everyone and we’re skilled at working with differing physical, mental, and language abilities. There is no person who will ever be made to feel like less than a full participant.

    Improv teaches people to adapt. We adapt to any physical, emotional, or mental needs.

    Please reach out if you want to chat about any concerns with our team.

  • You will not. Many of our students (and performers) are introverts. Introverts often make the best improvisers, as they are skilled at listening and observing.

    Improv class is a safe place to try on “pretend personas.” And you will probably find that it makes you more confident in social situations.

  • Yes, our introductory class does not have a class performance and you are never called upon to perform in front of the class.

    That said, we hear this a LOT, and it turns out that people fall in love with improv and later do want to perform. That will be your decision in a future class, not this one.

  • Yes, this class is the gateway to all our other improv classes. Performances start in our 301 class, and from there you’ll be able to select from our huge selection of electives across short- and long-form improv.

  • Great question! We’ve got an entire page dedicated to helping you decide which is the right place to start.