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Improv 101 — Improv Basics

Saturdays noon-3pm starting Mar 29, 2008
Cost: $300

Students will learn the fundamentals of long-form improvisation. Core concepts covered include using character agreement to make your scenes succeed, developing character, character status, object and environment work, “playing at the top of your intelligence,” and heightening (finding ways to make your scenes get funnier from start to finish).

This course also introduces the specific vocabulary of the UCB Training Center.

This course meets for 8 sessions that are each 3 hours long. At the end of the course, students will take part in a class performance at the UCB Theatre. Graduation is also contingent upon students seeing at least two improvised shows at the UCB Theater before the end of the course.

Class Size: 16 Students

Improv 101 - Improv Basics

A great introduction to long form improvisation: learn to create great scenes through agreement, support, playing to the top of your intelligence, object and environment work and strong, clear character choices.

Prerequisite: none

Maximum class size is 16

Class meets at MetaTheatre in West Hollywood

Johnny Meeks

meeks, johnny
Johnny has been studying and performing with the UCB Theatre Los Angeles since its inception and has been trained by Matt Besser, Ian Roberts and Matt Walsh of the Upright Citizens Brigade. His improv comedy experience began eons ago when he represented the Webster Groves High School Statesmen on its improv team. Johnny went on to found an improv troupe at Ohio Wesleyan University where he taught and directed for four years and continues to coach periodically. He also founded the Control Group, a sketch and Improv group in Washington, DC.

As an actor, Johnny can be seen in various commercials and makes regular appearances on TALKSHOW with Spike Feresten. Johnny also co-wrote and stars in Alleyball, winner of Best Feature and Audience Award for Best Feature at the SoCal Independent Film Festival in 2006.

Currently, Johnny can be seen at UCBTLA on the Harold team Sentimental Lady and Improvised Movie team Deep Focus.

Student Feedback

"I found Johnny to be the most competent teacher I've ever had. He knew when to push us and when to let us get loose."

"Johnny is terrific. Very clear, supportive, funny and focused. I was lucky to have him in my first class."

"Johnny was fun, friendly, understanding, encouraging, informative and funny. The class was consistently providing opportunities to play, learn and laugh."