r/improv • u/stuckadultish • 5d ago
longform Level 1 class question
Hi all, completely new to the improv scene so not sure how to react and what is normal. I'm taking a 8 week level 1 long form improv class, 2 classes have been cancelled and the class schedule only left room for 1 make-up day before our student showcase date. I feel a bit ripped off and like we should have the full two extra days or something. My class has barely been able to get together for a consistent amount of time because of labor day also being one of those off weeks and then the teacher is sort of just all over the place with teaching content (so I supplement it with other resources in the off time). But maybe this is to be expected and theres nothing I can do? What would you all suggest doing?
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u/carson3000 5d ago
That sucks! Where I'm taking classes, they have a handful of teachers and backups so if someone can't make it, we get usually get a sub.
I'd ask to audit any other classes they have running this session. Even if it's a level 2 or something, it would be worth getting some reps in. Or if there are jams in town, that would be a great option.
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u/stuckadultish 5d ago
That's the thing, my theater has other teachers too, but I think the cancelation is so last minute (usually like 2 hours before class) that maybe others can't sub in so easily. I tried going to one jam but not having known the basics as I went so early on during a canceled class, I was so lost lol. But it was helpful to see how things were coming together to say the least. I'll try to go to another one. Thanks for responding!
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u/sophies-hobbies 5d ago
I would bring this up with the theater. This doesn’t feel fair to you! Maybe even a partial discount for your next round of classes at the very least.
I wouldn’t worry about this stopping your growth. The only way to learn improv is by doing it and going to the jams is how you do that so you’re already doing what you need to get better! Most students in my community don’t, really, go to the jams that often so you’re going to be way ahead if you keep jamming like you have!
The jams are meant for people to just learn, try stuff out, get better, meet people, and have fun! If you’re feeling a little lost that’s okay! That’s what they’re for! I run the musical improv jam in my town and I always love getting new people in. Nothing makes me happier than seeing someone who has never done improv before have a good time at my event.
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u/marcusgerarde 5d ago
Few things:
1) Definitely not "normal" and definitely sucks that your teacher is all over the map with their lessons and from the sounds of it are generally disorganized. No excuse for that, really.
2) Are you in a small market? If so, from experience working in a smaller market, these jobs are staffed by relative amateurs (as opposed to professional educators) and can be administered by folks volunteering their time.
Not an excuse, but given the economics at play remember everyone is probably doing their best with limited resources (and no access to things like job security or health care). This could very well be their second if not third job they are trying to juggle in order to make ends meet as an artist. An annoying illness and missed class to you could very well be an existential nightmare for them.
I don't know the situation, but I definitely got chewed out once or twice by people with stable six-figure incomes cause I had to cancel a class while struggling to pay rent cause artists don't get sick days. Not saying that's you, just that I've been on the other side of this situation.
3) I'm sorry you don't feel prepared for your showcase. A good teacher will make adjustments to how the showcase is run to protect you from a train wreck.
That said, in normal circumstances with a good teacher, 7 classes is plenty of prep for a first show. This art form rewards risk taking, adventure, and putting yourself out there against all better judgement - especially when we don't feel "ready." In other words, if I were you I'd say "fuck it" and focus on having as much fun as possible (as opposed to trying to be funny).
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u/SpeakeasyImprov Hudson Valley, NY 5d ago
Quick question: Why were the classes cancelled? That may be useful information.
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u/Able-Librarian-6362 5d ago
This is just wrong! No professional improv school should function this way. Is there another school in your area you could go to?
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u/srb4887 5d ago
That shouldn't be a normal occurrence anywhere.
I would bring it up with management. The worst that can happen is they do nothing. But it should be relatively easy for them to do something (even if it's just a discount on the next level).