Improv for Actors

Interested in adding improv to your creative skill-set but don’t know where to start? Then say “Yes, And” to this Improv for Actors workshop created and led by veteran improviser Kristy Nolen! In this three-week, three-hour course, culminating with an improv show at Ann Arbor Civic Theater, students will gain confidence in their craft while having fun with fellow actors in a safe, judgment-free environment. 

Working without a script benefits stage and screen performers in countless ways: a more confident auditioning process, taking direction in rehearsal, making quick artistic choices, active listening and being supportive of fellow actors. Through improv games and scenework, this class will focus on how to develop character, explore relationships with scene partners, and create ensemble, while comedy, laughter and creativity will be at the center of this work.

Designed specifically for those who have previous acting/stage/performance experience and clear understanding of how to communicate with an audience; so the group can focus entirely on the world of improvisation. Also a wonderful opportunity for people with previous improv performance experience, as they will flourish, revisiting and strengthening their improv knowledge. 

Dates: Thursdays, February 6th, 13th, and 20th at 7:00 to 9:30 pm

Improv Performance: Saturday, February 22nd at 8:00pm

Cost: $75 for members of A2CT, $93.75 for non-members


Kristy Nolen Bio

Kristy Nolen began her career in Chicago, where she trained, performed and taught improvisational comedy at legendary venues such as The Second City (National Touring Company), Annoyance Theater, iO Theater, plus in Amsterdam with Boom Chicago. Theater credits include: Arcade Comedy Theater, Shakespeare in the Arb, Pasadena Playhouse, Bricolage Theater, Bailiwick Theater and Carnegie Mellon Studio Theater. Ms. Nolen trained with The Marymount College London Program, The La Jolla Playhouse Conservatory and received her BFA in Acting from Ohio University.

A proud member of SAG-AFTRA for over 20 years, her television credits include One Dollar, Castle Rock, Those Who Kill, ER and Early Edition. Film credits include A Man Called Otto, Sweet Girl and The True Adventures of Wolfboy. Now in the Detroit/Ann Arbor area, appearing at many venues, including Planet Ant Theatre, Go Comedy Improv Theater, Civic Improv, Hear.Say Theater, and Washtenaw Community College. Check out her improv comedy duo, Nolen & Nolen.

Scholarships available upon request, contact manager@a2ct.org or call (734) 971-2228.