Rules
- Improv is about ‘yes and’, but if you feel uncomfortable in a certain scene you can just say NO.
- If a scene involves you getting on your knees and they hurt, you don’t have to.
- Don’t be a jerk.
- If two people on stage touch each other, that usually means that they know each other, and they are ok with it. For others, keep touching to office appropriate.
- Don’t pick people up.
- When you take out your clothes in a scene, take out your improv clothes.
- Don’t take photos, nor videos of this session. We might take pics, but we’ll ask first.
- Have fun!!
Best practices
- When you’re in a scene, make sure to face the audience.
- Speak loudly and clearly
- Be aware of where you are on stage – try to not block each other and if someone blocks you, step out from it.
Community guidelines
We want to ensure our open sessions are all about creativity, fun, and support! To make sure everyone feels safe, comfortable and welcome as they are, we ask that all participants keep these guidelines in mind:
- Everyone is welcome: It does not matter who you are, if you have experience or any such thing. We’re all here to have fun, and enjoy improv!
- Be kind: We all share a space for laughter and learning. Be kind, supportive, and respectful of the people you share the stage with.
- Respecting boundaries: Improv is built on the principle of “Yes, and…” but we understand that boundaries need to be respected. If at any point you feel uncomfortable during a scene, please feel free to say “No” or use any other clear signal. Your comfort and well-being are the priority and we’ll make sure to move on.
- Physicality: If a scene requires physical movement (like kneeling, standing for a long time, etc.) and it doesn’t feel good, you don’t have to do it – in fact, please don’t! If you have doubts about this, don’t hesitate to reach out.
- Touching and personal space: Physical contact in scenes is something that can happen, but always keep it within respectful and comfortable limits. Touching should be “office appropriate”. If you’re ever unsure, don’t initiate physical contact. In that line, don’t pick people up. Everyone’s personal space matters!
- Clothing Guidelines: If you choose to take off any clothing during a scene, please make sure it’s your improv gear (think imaginary clothing – not your actual real-life shirt!). Always keep it respectful, and remember that we’re here to support and create, not to make anyone feel awkward. Want to know what to wear? We recommend something comfortable that doesn’t restrict movement.
Most importantly: let’s have fun! Improv is all about playing, discovering, and supporting each other. Enjoy the experience, and help us create a fun, welcoming environment for all!