“Laughter is the shortest distance between two people,” said comedian Victor Borge. What’s more? Connecting and laughing with others can strengthen your resilience in the face of uncertainty and help you tackle tough challenges.
Improv classes, in particular, are great for people dealing with uncertainty and anxiety because they train you to be present in-the-moment and focus on the person and situation in front of you, instead of worrying about what the future holds. Plus, they’re incredibly fun and entertaining, offering a much-needed respite from reality.
Writing about her own improv education, Axios DC Reporter Mimi Montgomery recently wrote, “As grown-ups, we often repress the imaginative playfulness and openness we had as kids, writing off these urges as embarrassing or dumb. But that means we cut ourselves off from opportunities to grow and create — dream jobs and passion projects and wild adventures.”
Experts in Spreading Joy
Washington Improv Theater (WIT) has been the DMV’s premier destination for hilarious improv comedy shows and informative, accessible classes for more than 25 years. Each year, more than 1,000 adults take one of WIT’s “Foundations of Improv” courses.
“Everybody needs an escape from time to time, and I’d say that’s especially true right now,” says Mark Chalfant, WIT’s Artistic/Executive Director.
For the past two years in-a-row, Washington City Paper readers have named WIT’s classes as being the “Best Art Class” in the District, according to the platform’s annual “Best of DC” poll.
Start Your New Adventure!
WIT’s Level 1 classes, which teach techniques for honing your communication and collaboration skills, are currently enrolling for weekly classes that start as soon as this Sunday, April 27. There are eight classes in total plus a showcase at the end.
The theater’s talented and dedicated teaching artists are trained in providing a positive learning environment that is safe, inclusive, and welcoming to all.
“WIT students come from a variety of backgrounds and different stages in life, from 22-year-old college grads and 35-year-old mid-career professionals, to 55-year-old senior executives and individuals who are well into retirement,” says Chalfant. “Our classes serve as a laboratory for self-discovery and a catalyst for creativity regardless of how old you are or what you do.”
In addition to WIT’s classes for individuals, its organizational training arm WIT@Work uses applied improv to teach professional skills, leadership development, and team building. It’s one of the top providers of its kind in the entire country.
What WIT’s students have to say:
“I love all the people I’ve met. Improv pushes you to get out of your comfort zone, which builds confidence. It’s all been wonderful!” — Kevin T.
“It’s the best professional training for creativity and working with people. I literally use improv everyday, including trying to approach most ideas with a spirit of ‘Yes, and’!” — Julia G.
“WIT constantly teaches me it’s okay to make mistakes (and move on), and how to trust my colleagues… Your classes have helped me take the poison out of toxic people and relationships, so that we can all take away something truly helpful and powerful.” — Helen D.
Discover all that Washington Improv Theater has to offer and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and LinkedIn. You can also subscribe to WIT’s weekly newsletter to be the first to find out about upcoming classes, performances, and more!
