2026 WORKSHOPS

Don't panic, it's organic!
with Kevin Whalen
Saturday, May 30th
@ Arts Court Theatre
9am-11am
Let's make organic improv fun again!
Let's be honest, organic improv is often a meandering group of confused improvisors.
This workshop will help clarify and add purpose to your organic work so you can use it as an effective tool for edits, group games or even an entire format.

Character Creation
with Stacey Smith
Saturday, May 30th
@ Arts Court Studio Black Box
9am - 11am
Discover how to create unique and memorable characters that drive your scenes forward!
This workshop will teach you techniques for building strong, grounded characters from physicality, vocal changes, and emotional depth.
Whether you’re playing a high-status diva or a quirky underdog, you’ll learn to make bold character choices that lead to interesting and fun scenes.

Initiation, Commitment and Editing
with Kris Siddiqi
Saturday, May 30th
@ Arts Court Theatre
11:30am - 1:30pm
Focus on the core skills of improvisation to hone your ability in initiating scenes effectively, editing with precision, and committing fully to characters.
Delve into the foundational elements of improvisation focusing on three key areas: initiating scenes, editing scenes, and maintaining commitment to character and scene reality. With his years of training, teaching, directing and instructing, award winning Comedian-Actor Kris Siddiqi will take participants through a series of exercises and improv formats aimed at helping improvisers start scenes with strong, clear choices; confidently edit using different editing techniques; and fully commit to their characters and the world of the scene.

The Vocal Chameleon
(Musical Improv - Singing in Character & Style)
with Stacey Smith
Saturday, May 30th
@ Arts Court Theatre
2:00pm-5:00pm
Break free from "Pretty Voice Syndrome" in this workshop designed to turn you into a sonic shapeshifter. You’ll stop singing as yourself and start inhabiting the grit of a desperate chimney sweep or the frenetic energy of a caffeinated woodland creature, using vocal physicality and "cheat codes" to master everything from Sondheim to 1920s Jazz. Whether you’re grit-shifting into a villainous tango or style-swapping from a power ballad to a rap battle, you’ll learn to let the character’s soul dictate the genre and maintain a show-stopping performance through any chord change.

Truthful Characters & Grounded Scene Work
with Paloma Nuñez
Saturday, May 30th
@ Arts Court Studio Black Box
2:30pm-4:30pm
Join Paloma to improve your scene work - she will help you find your feet in a two-hander.
Don't stress about inventing, instead be economical with your choices and dig in hard on your first offer.
Paloma will help you bring out the truth in your characters and focus on grounded scene work that is compelling and funny.

Introduction to Improv
hosted by the Improv Embassy
Saturday, May 30th
@ Arts Court Studio Black Box
11:30am-1:30pm
Join the Improv Embassy for a beginner-friendly intro jam for a relaxed, inclusive space where first-timers can jump in and give improv a shot.
This workshop is a playful, no-pressure intro. You’ll jump into easy, interactive exercises and try out a few improv games with the support of a friendly facilitator. No experience needed—just a willingness to laugh, experiment, and connect with others.
Whether you've always been curious or just looking to try something new, this is your chance to find out what improv is all about.
The Improv Embassy is a school dedicated to growing and showcasing improv, sketch and stand-up comedy in the nation’s capital. We run jams and teach classes for those looking to have fun and for those who wish to become performers.
