When Sandra Rockman and I teamed up three years ago to bring back IMPROV after the Pandemic, we were doing it for selfish reasons. Trying to find connection and community after years of isolation and uncertainty, I had monthly IMPROV playdates in my living room just to get the art form rolling again. We didn’t know that when we reignited IMPROV it would blossom into an instructional series to reach and teach the community as a whole. Something magical started to happen.
As each class would end, students from the class (some newbies to Improv, some returning) would mention the value and importance of this IMPROV series. We thought it was just a way to have some fun and play some games, but to some, it was much more meaningful. Some players come liberated after a divorce to find their funny again. Some show up to forget their terminal illness or physical disabilities. Another laughs hard to heal their cancer. Some just come to find humanity when the world outside doesn’t make sense. The touching stories continue. We had no idea that IMPROV could be a lifeline but we did know it could help with communication skills, confidence, and creativity.
The benefits of Improv seem to be expanding. Now neuroscience tells us that IMPROV and being “in the moment,” creates a better an ability to deal with uncertainty and better adaptation skills to change. Improv and role play aids in people suffering from depression and anxiety because it’s action and play that helps move through that fear in a joyful, non-judgmental way. Improv provides community and helps increase feelings of connectedness and hope. We all could use some hope right now.
Since there is no script, players learn to trust their instincts and lose the fear of failure as there are NO FAILURES, only opportunities, according to Improv Queen, Tina Fey. The mindset shift can lead to a more resilient and positive outlook on life and with humanity as a whole.
Improv playdates are for wonderful outlets for personal growth, yet also for professional or social organizations. We’ve had the pleasure of bringing IMPROV to local Rotary clubs, Nevada County Health Department, public school teachers, Nevada County Pride community and anyone who wants to say “YES AND….”.
Our Spring Series of seven Monday evenings starts Monday, April 7th and goes through May 19th. We have just a couple slots open. Everyone is welcome!
Some free IMPROV offerings are coming up too:
- 3/28 6:30-7:30pm at Gold Vibe Kombuchary, Grass Valley
- 4/5 5:00-6:00pm at Nevada Theatre Stage before Nevada City Film Festival’s Comedy Show
- More to come hopefully
We adore our Improv community and we often seek to see and support each other socially out in Nevada County. We are so lucky.
Contact Kimberly Ewing at kimberly_ewing@hotmail.com if interested in learning more about IMPROV.