Classes & Programs : "ART OF..."
Patrick offers a variety of classes that focus on the "Art Of" Improvisation and theater technique. These classes will be part of The Necessary Theater (TNT) coming in the Fall of 2026.
IMPROV: PROFESSIONAL TRACK
The Art of Improvisation Professional Track is an advanced ensemble-based training program for experienced improvisers, actors, writers, directors, and performers seeking a deeper approach to long form improvisation as a theatrical art form.
This is not a traditional “advanced improv class.” It is an ongoing laboratory dedicated to presence, listening, emotional truth, ensemble awareness, and the development of original performance work. Rooted in the philosophies of Del Close and modern long form improvisation, this class approaches improv with the same seriousness, rigor, and curiosity as any other theatrical discipline.
IMPROV: FUNDAMENTALS
Improvisation has come a long way. Different schools, theaters, and teachers all searching for
the “right” way to play make believe with another human being — usually in pursuit of comedy.
But what is improvisation, really?
The Art of Improvisation 1 is a foundational course designed to build strong ensemble players
through the core principles of long form improvisation. This class emphasizes listening,
agreement, emotional connection, group awareness, and truthful play over performance anxiety
or the pressure to “be funny."
Improv: For Gen X
Remember when hanging out in person was the default? When people had attention spans?
When comedy came from observation instead of branding?
This improv class is for adults who want to reconnect with creativity, spontaneity, and other
actual human beings.
Designed for Gen X, Boomers, and Elder Millennials, Improv "For Gen X”, welcomes complete
beginners, former theater kids, recovering performers, writers, artists, parents, professionals,
and anyone who misses play without wanting to feel like they accidentally walked into a college
orientation.
Art of Improv Ensemble
Level 1 teaches you how to improvise.
Level 2 teaches you how to create theatre together.
This class moves beyond “being funny” and into the deeper mechanics of long form
improvisation: group mind, emotional commitment, pattern recognition, character relationships,
silence, tension, and sustained scene work. Students begin developing the instincts required for
advanced ensemble performance and original theatrical creation.
IMPROV: Presence & Connection
Improvisation is more than performance.
It’s listening. Presence. Play. Connection.
A way of stepping out of isolation and back into genuine human interaction.
This ensemble-based class uses the principles of long form improvisation to help adults
reconnect with spontaneity, creativity, confidence, and community in a supportive theatrical
environment. No pressure to be funny. No performance experience required.
Through group exercises, movement, scene work, and collaborative play, students learn to quiet self-consciousness, trust instinct, and become more present with themselves and others.