Tag Archives: education

AM I DOING THIS RIGHT? How a simple game like ZIP ZAP ZUP builds confidence.

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There is a book and program about business Improv that says we have to move past ZIP ZAP ZUP in corporate comedy. Always open minded, I said/thoughy, OK. The more I read the more a feared this author/teacher is getting ao far away from our core, mostly trying to speak the corporate language, these teachers are losing what makes our value to the corporate world.

So I doubled down on ZIP ZAP ZUP and the value of its over simple silly approach. If presented and used properly this simple game is a powerful tool.

I start (almost) every workshop and class with ZIP ZAP ZUP.

  1. ZIP ZAP ZUP breaks communication down to its basic levels. We point, make eye contact and utter a sound. Then we listen with our eyes and follow the game until it is once again our turn to give.
  2. ZIP ZAP ZUP makes it easy to focus, with the simple task of following the energy around the circle with our eyes. Waitimg our turn, every errant sound (side conversation, mockery) or movement (fidget, lack of focus, looking anywhere but at the game focus) destroys the group focus. Less is more.
  3. ZIP ZAP ZUP requires a focus. When it’s your turn, I teach to explode with sound, but hyper focus where you want to send that energy, reinforced by making eye contact with your target, pointing at the same person, in many ways with your full body. Even looking to me for approval, distracts and confuses your intent. I say, DON’T TRY TO IMPRESS ME. DON’T WORRY ABOUT MY APPROVAL.
  4. ZIP ZAP ZUP is such a silly simple game we can say without worry for ego or insecurity that if we mess up “WHO CARES?”. (please don’t play elimination. This builds divas, not team, not focus). I teach I would rather hear six confident “ZIP!”s instead of “What am I supposed to do”, “ZAAAaaaap?” “OPPS I DID THAT WRONG?” “THEY DID THAT WRONG”. We need to create safe place to play and fail. Or better put, there are no mistakes, so never a reason to correct a mistake. As a teacher my goal is to lead you to a better place, a better way, but if you “mess up” who cares. As a teacher and player lead by example. Correcting others destroys the focus and adds to the distraction. Let the teacher teach.

“DON’T RUIN TODAY BECAUSE OF WHAT HAPPEN TOMORROW!”

Walt Frasier

I love ZIP ZAP ZUP because there is no need for the above. It’s just a simple silly game. We can create a baseline of focus AND a safe space to silly.

As we move to scene and story games remember to ot let ego and insecurity to sneak into the mix and poison the well. Ego and insecurity destroys team, leadership, sales and service, relationships etc etc etc.

  • Don’t TRY to be funny! You’ll more likely be jerky.
  • Don’t TRY to be clever! You’re more like to be disconnected, elitist.
  • NEVER try to be great (perfect)! Once you recover from writers block, you will most like settle on mediocrity.
  • Don’t TRY to impress me! You never will impress me TRYING. But 7yos have impressed me with genius after 5 minutes of their first class because they have already let go. Too focused on HAVING FUN to be afraid.
  • Don’t TRY to be cheesy! Theatre at its best has a cheesy element, even in our most deep, dramatic moments. Allow yourself to be cheesy and silly, but don’t lean into it. Once in a while doing the I’M GOING TO MAKE A REALLY BAD PUN now subtext thing is cute but gets old VERY fast.

REPLACE THE EGO AND INSECURITY WITH CHOICES!

It’s time to replace the ego (TRYING to be funny and clever, etc) and insecurity (fear of failure, judgement, ridicule etc) with simple choices. We need to flood the brain with productive programming.

There are numerous ways to do this. Actors will debate outside in (starting with a physical movement, look, costume, prop, etc) and inside out (emotion, motivation, breath, etc). I say what ever works for you, and more importantly wat works for you in this moment.

Meisner tells his actors to make a preparation. OFFSTAGE have a thought, a breath, a movement, an emotion…. what ever you need to get there. Then we make a series of choices, and more importantly LISTEN.

As an actor or writer, we make choices throughout our process in preparing a scripted work and continuing long after opening night. Even on a film set, directors, writers and actors are making adjustments. Even after filmed shows hit the theater or TV, directors and editors might between for later releases.

In improv we don’t have the luxury of months and years of preparation. We are the actors, writers, directors, set designers, costumers and props master.

Worrying about the ego and insecure based choices destroybour ability to discover amazing.

INSTEAD MAKE CHOICES

  • WHO are we? Relationship, job, age, physical, mental, emotional states of being, status, motives, desires, ambitions etc
  • WHERE are we? Location, light/dark, dry/wet, cold/hot, sparse/cramped, etc
  • WHAT are we doing? Actions/ Activity, plot

EVERYTIME YOU TAKE STAGE MAKE A CHOICE FIRST

Then make more choices. Then play those choices, embodying physically the WHO, WHERE, WHAT choices. Those physically movements will inspire more emotion and story choices. The cycle ends until the scene is over. STAY FOCUSED until you are offstage.

The Power of Social Emotional Learning (SEL): A Key to Unlocking Success in Life

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In a world focused on grades, test scores, and academic achievements, it’s easy to forget that education extends far beyond textbooks and memorization. The way we manage our emotions, navigate relationships, and make decisions plays a significant role in our overall success and well-being. This is where Social Emotional Learning (SEL) comes to the forefront.

What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?

SEL is the process of acquiring the skills we need to understand ourselves, navigate the complexities of our emotions, form healthy relationships, and make responsible choices. It’s more than just ‘being nice’ – it’s a structured approach to building a foundation of crucial life skills.

The Five Core Competencies of SEL

The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) outlines five key competencies that form the core of SEL:

  1. Self-awareness: Knowing your strengths, weaknesses, emotions, and how they impact you.
  2. Self-management: Regulating emotions, setting goals, and handling stress effectively.
  3. Social awareness: Empathizing, understanding diverse perspectives, and showing respect.
  4. Relationship skills: Building positive connections, collaborating, and resolving conflicts.
  5. Responsible decision-making: Analyzing situations, evaluating consequences, and making ethical and constructive choices.

Why SEL Matters

SEL is not just a feel-good initiative – it’s backed by extensive research. Studies show that students engaged in quality SEL programs demonstrate:

  • Improved academic performance: Better grades, focus, and attendance.
  • Positive social behaviors: Enhanced empathy, conflict resolution, and collaboration skills.
  • Decreased emotional distress: Less stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Long-term benefits: Enhanced career success, healthier relationships, and stronger community ties.

SEL in the Classroom and Beyond

SEL is best implemented when it’s integrated throughout the school environment. This can include:

  • SEL-focused lessons: Dedicated time to build SEL skills through activities, discussions, and role-playing.
  • SEL integration across subjects: Incorporating SEL concepts in math, science, language studies, etc.
  • Supporting a positive school climate: Fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and open communication.

SEL isn’t confined to schools alone. Parents, caregivers, and community organizations play crucial roles in reinforcing these skills in everyday life.

SEL in Action: Tips for Adults

  • Model the behaviors you want to see: Practice self-awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making.
  • Name emotions and help with regulation: “You seem frustrated, let’s take deep breaths together.”
  • Discuss decision-making: Talk about choices and their possible consequences.
  • Praise positive behaviors: Highlight efforts in managing emotions, collaborating, and making kind choices.

The Future with SEL

Our world needs not only brilliant minds but also compassionate leaders, skilled problem solvers, and resilient individuals. By investing in Social Emotional Learning, we arm our children (and ourselves) with the tools to navigate life’s complexities and create a more positive, connected, and successful future.

IMPROV IS SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Simply playing Improv games is social e.otuonal learning, developing creativity, critical thinking, public speaking, listening, focus, self confidence, self awareness and more. We use Improv to teach corporate groups team building, leadership, sales and service skills.

Our programs include public shows and classes, private shows (field trips) and workshops in Times Square NYC as well as touring schools, camps, community centers and family events DC to BOSTON and beyond.

It’s all BS so NONE of it is!

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My latest “waltism” usually gets some WTF double takes from students. This new phrase is as much an example of my point. I am equally the victim and benefactor of getting high on my own supply of BS any given day.

It’s all BS so NONE of it is!

In the world of an artist, we constantly do things that disconnect us from reality, as a way of discovering a deeper meaning to reality.

The games we play are ridiculous. And quite often, when working with middle school students and corporate teams alike, we get strange eye rolls and lifted eye brows.

Within our world there are more so called acting techniques and methods than I will ever know of their existance. There is always a new way to teach the same old thing, and once in a while someone stands out with a radial new idea, not that often.

I literally just deleted 5 paragraphs of BS from this blog because of a Facebook Post

WHAT IS LOVE, IN YOUR OWN WORDS?

What an amazing example of my point.

LOVE is a word used to describe an emotion, a state of being. But can any of word truly describe love. Poets have tried for 1000s of years through words, symbolism, metaphor, etc. But do we ever truly describe it. Perhaps. But we inspire feelings, physical and emotional responses through the poetry. We can truly co.prehend but we can at our core recognize it. Except when we confuse it for lust, dependency, infatuation, pain, etc.

Similarly, techique is not acting. Acting is not living.. But we play games, perform exercises, meditate, journal, or serve our world, etc to discover this thing called acting.

We find ways to trigger our emotional life, our creative spirit. But, for me at least, once I get there I feel silly, all the thing I did to get to that heightened, deeper-focused place.

When you see a martial artist perform Tai chi, it looks silly to those that don’t respect the process. But over time that trains the mind, bod and soul to battle. If you are a fan or practiced, you know of many of the numerous techniques – Kung Fu, Karate, Ju Jitsu, all the animal inspired methods of the Panda movies etc. Warriors will swear by their methods. True artists will dis8and draw upon many.

Acting is a martial art. We discover our best selves inside and out by breaking out mind, body and soul down, develop a physical and mental agility and then put ourselves back together again, reconnected to the real world at our best.

Another way to think about it, whe wvee we are not performing, break everything down, look for new ways to better yourself. Train a new skill (speech, stage combat, yoga etc) Read a book, take a class, learn a new song, monologue, dance step etc.

But when it’s time to perform, warm up get focused and be in f he moment. Thinking about the technique when trying to be a character loving in an inaginary world disconnects us from the moment.

I call it BS because that how those who don’t get it write it off. One artists BS is another’s salvation.

BE A SPONGE. Be open to everything.

But catch ourselves getting high on our supply. Because all the things that help us get to where we need to be to nail a performance is BS to oir audience. They don’t care about process. They don’t want to see our choices. They want to see the result of those choices. At hat point we leave the BS behind and JUST DO.

And as for this blog post what a crock of 💩 lol

Finding Focus: Exploring the Power of Public Solitude in Acting

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The stage lights are blinding, the audience a sea of expectant faces. In this electrifying atmosphere, actors must create a world of their own, embodying characters and emotions with complete conviction. But how do they achieve this level of focus while surrounded by so much external stimuli? The answer lies in a seemingly paradoxical concept: public solitude.

Pioneered by the legendary Russian acting teacher Constantin Stanislavski and further developed by his protégé Sanford Meisner, public solitude is a technique that empowers actors to cultivate a state of intense inner concentration even in the most public settings. It’s about creating a mental space where external distractions fade away, allowing actors to fully inhabit the world of the play and connect with their characters on a profound level.

The Stanislavskian Roots

Stanislavski, dissatisfied with the artificial and melodramatic acting styles of his time, sought a more realistic and truthful approach. He emphasized the importance of the actor’s inner life, urging them to draw on their own emotions and experiences to bring authenticity to their performances. Public solitude was a key tool in achieving this.

By training actors to build an imaginary wall around themselves onstage, Stanislavski aimed to eliminate distractions from the audience, set design, or fellow actors. This allowed actors to delve into their characters’ psychology, focusing on their internal objectives and motivations.

Meisner’s Refinement

Sanford Meisner, a protégé of Stanislavski who rose to prominence in the mid-20th century, took the concept of public solitude a step further. He introduced the idea of “living truthfully under imaginary circumstances.” This meant not just focusing on one’s own emotions, but actively responding to the imaginary world of the play and the actions of fellow actors.

Meisner’s approach emphasized the importance of sense memory – using past sensory experiences to inform an actor’s performance in the present. By employing public solitude, actors could create a safe space to explore these memories and authentically react to the imaginary stimuli of the play.

The Benefits of Public Solitude

The ability to achieve public solitude equips actors with a multitude of benefits:

  • Heightened Concentration: By shutting out distractions, actors can fully immerse themselves in the play, improving their focus and memory recall.
  • Emotional Authenticity: Public solitude allows actors to access their inner well of emotions, leading to more believable and nuanced performances.
  • Stronger Connections: By responding truthfully to imaginary circumstances, actors can build stronger connections with their fellow actors, creating a more natural and believable stage dynamic.

Mastering Public Solitude

While the concept might seem simple, achieving public solitude requires dedication and practice. Actors can hone this skill through exercises that focus on:

  • Sensory Awareness: Heightening awareness of sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and touches, both on and offstage.
  • Emotional Recall: Recalling past emotional experiences and using them to inform their performance.
  • Focus Techniques: Practicing meditation or mindfulness exercises to improve concentration and block out distractions.

Public solitude is not about becoming aloof or self-absorbed onstage. It’s about creating a powerful internal focus that allows actors to truly connect with their characters and the world of the play. By mastering this technique, actors can deliver performances that are not only technically sound but also emotionally resonant and deeply affecting.

Shakespeare’s Enduring Legacy: The Globe Theater and Modern Theater & Acting

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William Shakespeare, often referred to as the “Bard of Avon,” is a name that resonates through the corridors of time. His timeless plays, sonnets, and contributions to the world of theater continue to captivate audiences around the globe. One of the most remarkable aspects of Shakespeare’s legacy is his influence on modern theater and acting, which can be attributed in large part to the iconic Globe Theater.

The Globe Theater: A Beacon of Innovation

Shakespeare’s association with the Globe Theater was transformative. Built in 1599 on the south bank of the River Thames in London, the Globe became the primary venue for Shakespeare’s plays. Its unique design, with an open-air stage surrounded by three tiers of seating, created an intimate connection between actors and audience members that remains a hallmark of modern theater.

  1. Theater Architecture: The Globe’s circular design and lack of a traditional proscenium arch made every seat in the house a front-row experience. This innovation challenged playwrights and actors to engage with the audience on a more personal level, a concept that modern theaters still embrace.
  2. Natural Lighting: The absence of artificial lighting in the Globe Theater meant that performances took place during daylight hours. This limitation forced actors to understand and master the nuances of natural light, a skill that carries over into today’s theater productions.

Shakespearean Language: The Cornerstone of Modern Acting

Shakespeare’s language is a cornerstone of modern acting and performance. His eloquent prose and poetry challenged actors to convey complex emotions and ideas, fostering a level of depth and complexity that remains relevant today.

  1. Verse and Prose: Shakespeare’s works are replete with both verse and prose. This duality allowed actors to explore various rhythms and tones, providing them with a rich palette to express character depth.
  2. Complex Characters: Shakespeare’s characters are some of the most well-developed in the history of theater. Actors who tackle these roles must grapple with intricate motivations, inner conflicts, and character arcs, setting a high bar for contemporary performers.

Shakespearean Influence on Modern Theater

Shakespeare’s impact on modern theater is immeasurable. His themes, characters, and narrative structures continue to inspire playwrights, directors, and actors worldwide.

  1. Adaptations and Reimaginings: Countless adaptations and reimaginings of Shakespeare’s works exist, from modernized settings to contemporary retellings. Films like Baz Luhrmann’s “Romeo + Juliet” and theater productions like “Hamilton” owe a debt to Shakespeare’s enduring appeal.
  2. Acting Techniques: Acting techniques developed in Shakespeare’s era, such as iambic pentameter and the use of rhetorical devices, still influence actor training today. The ability to convey complex emotions and engage audiences emotionally remains paramount in contemporary theater.

William Shakespeare’s legacy extends far beyond the Elizabethan era in which he lived. His connection to the Globe Theater and the enduring influence of his language on modern theater and acting underscore his status as a cultural icon. The Globe Theater, with its innovative design and emphasis on actor-audience interaction, set the stage for contemporary theaters to build upon. Shakespeare’s works continue to be performed, adapted, and celebrated worldwide, reminding us of the enduring power of storytelling and the timeless relevance of the human experience.

THIS WEEK June 6-12, 2022 Times Square NYC Comedy

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Check menu links for additional shows and classes.
EMAIL for more information regarding group sales and private events: corporate team building, college humor and K12 educational outreach. Check out menu links for additional upcoming shows and classes. See live comedy tonight in NYC.
CLICK HERE to join our mailing list.

Register on Eventbrite

THIS WEEK at a glance

Click Links for Tickets

  • Sunday June 5
  • 12p COMEDY CLASS Comedy 4 Teens
  • 3p CABARET / VARIETY SHOW Golden Hour, for the New Roaring Twenties
  • 9p STAND-UP COMEDY All Stars: Troy Bond (Disney, NBC), Drew Tessier (Yaaas! Fest), Vannessa Jackson (NBC, SNL), Brian McFadden (CBS Late Show, Comedy Central)
  • Monday June 6
  • 8p IMPROV COMEDY SHOW
  • 9p STAND-UP COMEDY All Stars: Troy Bond (Disney, NBC), Matt Arevalo, Vannessa Jackson (NBC, SNL), Ian Lara  (NBC’s Tonight Show, HBO)
  • Tuesday June 7
  • 9p STAND-UP COMEDY All Stars: Troy Bond (Disney, NBC), Gordy McNiff
  • Wednesday June 8
  • 9p STAND-UP COMEDY All Stars: Troy Bond (Disney, NBC), Sarah Garner (Yaaas! Fest), Bob Dibuono (CBS, Bravo, Sirius Radio. Comedy Central, ABC’s The View), Christine Meehan-Berg (Showtime), Patricia Dinglasan, Joe Larson (FOX,  NBC, Discovery Channel)
  • Thursday June 9
  • AM Professional Development Workshop for Teachers
  • 9p STAND-UP COMEDY All Stars: Troy Bond (Disney, NBC), Joe Devito (Dry Bar, Last Comic Standing, CBS Late Show, CNN, FOX), Aaron Berg ( Comedy Central Roast Battle), Alex Aronson (MSG TV), Harry Terjanian
  • Friday June 10
  • 9p STAND-UP COMEDY All Stars: Troy Bond (Disney, NBC), Brian Kim
  • Saturday June 11
  • 12p COMEDY CLASS Adult Improv (16+ welcome)
  • 3p IMPROV COMEDY SHOW
  • 9p STAND-UP COMEDY All Stars:
  • Sunday June 12
  • 12p COMEDY CLASS Comedy 4 Teens
  • 3p IMPROV COMEDY SHOW
  • 9p STAND-UP COMEDY All Stars:

February 2021 Online Comedy Classes – Kids, teens, Adults

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Comedy Class are great for those with professional aspirations in comedy, those business professional looking to beef up their creativity, communication skills and self confidence, for those just share in creating some much needed laughter in these crazy times. While we miss our Times Square theater it has been cool working with students from around the world, including many of the 50 states, Canada, England, Norway, India and even Australia. We use versions of these same classes to teach corporate groups team building, leadership/management, sales and service skills. We also are NYC DOE vendors, offering programs to K12 schools, camps and community centers. EMAIL us for more information about public and private programming – shows, masterclasses, workshops and residencies. Scroll below for a listing of upcoming online classes. See you back in Times Square ASAP!!!!

QUICK LINKS – Adult Classes, Open to 16+

  • Mondays 8pm Stand-Up Comedy
  • Tuesdays 8pm Improv Comedy
  • Wednesdays 8pm Improv Comedy
  • Saturdays 2pm Long Form Improv Comedy
    Drop by anytime for $25/class. Sign up for a single class $75 (four weeks, ONE class/week) or register for unlimited access at $125/month to ALL of the above.
  • Sundays 7pm Sketch Comedy Forum $75/Month includes FOUR CLASSES and a produced video from your original sketch comedy script

QUICK LINKS – Youth Programming

  • Sundays-Thursdays 5pm Comedy 4 Kids
  • Sundays- Thursdays 6pm Comedy 4 Teens
  • Saturdays 12pm Advanced Comedy 4 Teens*
  • Sundays 1pm Teen Sketch Comedy*
    *Advanced teen comedy classes virtually sold out to returning students. EMAIL us to have your child considered for this programming.

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL!!!!!

Sign up for any group of classes above at the $125 unlimited rate and start TODAY. Get 5+ week of access to 20+ classes. Start Today (1/19) and pay as little as $5/class. START HAVING FUN TODAY!!!!

SKETCH COMEDY CLASS

CLICK HERE to register for this session, not available for drop in, you must commit to full month. Each participant will develop an original script, through brainstorming exercises, improv, discussion and table reads in class. We will help you produce the script – casting, production, editing and even online hosting on our various social media platforms. Get amazing experience and exposure while building your portfolio.

Stand-Up Comedy

Walt Frasier, as laid out in his book Stand-Up Comedy (availabel FREE via KindleUnlimited), teaches a simple four step method to develop new comedy material. Our brains are the library for our creativity, and each step to Walt’s method is about unlocking our memories and then thinking out of the box to turn our personal stories of observation and experience, over the course of four classes, into original 5-minute comedy routines.

Improv Comedy ALL LEVELS Game Play

This is so much more than a IMPROV 1010 class. Various professional players from the ranks of EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH lead a series of warm-up, technique building and performance games. While open to beginners, this is not necessarily just for beginners. The great aspect of Improv is that most games can be played by all. Over time you will develop skills in character development, world building, story telling, team work, and more, but everyone can start playing TODAY with zero experience. This class invites anyone looking to play for the first time or to keep their skills going, or just to have some fun networking with new players.

Long Form Improv Comedy

Samuel Van Wyk introduces students to various Long Form Styles and techniques to sustain characters and stories long past the short form games most people know from WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY. Some experience required. Total beginners may find this class a bit overwhelming. IN addition to years performing professionally with EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH, Sam has completed the full studio program in both Improv & Sketch Comedy at UCB.

YOUTH PROGRAMMING

Comedy 4 Kids
Comedy 4 Teens

Walt Frasier heads up the program, with teaching artists form EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH (AKA Improv 4 Kids touring K12 schools). Both focus primarily on Improv comedy but also include stand-up comedy. Few students attend all 20 monthly classes, but most register for the unlimited packages and pop in 2-3 sessions/week.

While we are very proud of our students appearing on TV and winning major competitions in comedy performance, we are more proud of the 1000s of students that have worked with our teaching artists over the years developing creativity, public speaking skills and self confidence.

OPTIONAL TEXTBOOKS for these classes. Both available for FREE via KindleUnlimited. While written with Youth Audience in mind, the lessons are universal for all levels/ages of comedy student, teacher and professional.

IMPROV on ZOOM We have logged 1000+ hours teaching Improv comedy to kids, teens and adults, and 150+ live shows for corporate groups, K12 outreach, family/friend events and publicly broadcast programs via ZOOM. This is both a list of 100+ games to paly on ZOOM, with some tricks we have learned the past 10 months plus universal tips to creating characters, relationships, settings and story.

STAND UP COMEDY Walt Frasier’s four step method to developing new comedy material is based on years of experience and observation of the most successful in NYC comedy. Unlock your brains library of knowledge and wisdom, flushing our ideas and details. Then learn to think out of the box to turn these personal stories of experience and observation into full comedy routines. Learn to FIND the funny in your work and better present the work with deeper meaning and effect.

Walt Frasier, artistic director of EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH and author of the above two books, is a classically trained actor and singer that has been working and teaching in comedy since 2002. TV Credits include Billions, Blue Bloods, Royal Pains, Lilyhammer, Letterman etc. Frasier has also professionally performed live internationally including off-Broadway, regional and touring theater, opera, and music.

Improv Comedy Shows, Workshops, Residencies and Professional Development at K-12 Schools

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Improv Comedy Shows, Workshops, Residencies and Professional Development at K-12 Schools help cultivate a positive environment to teach and learn while inspiring valuable life skills.

IMPROV 4 KIDS grades K-8
IMPROV 4 TEENS grades 6-12

QUICK LINKS – DOWNLOADABLE PDFs

comedykids

PICTURED – various students from public classes and student showcases at the Broadway Comedy Club in Times Square, NYC, Wisconsin HS Workshop, Queens HS with Eddie Brill and Mario Cantone, Ohio National Guard weekend programs for Military Child. More about public programs – including summer comedy camp – at https://newyorkimprovtheater.com/comedy-school/

Improv Comedy Shows, Workshops, Residencies and Professional Development at K-12 Schools

EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH Improv Comedy Showslmaooffbroadway

  • ASSEMBLY PROGRAMS8schools
  • AFTER SCHOOL
  • SUMMER CAMPS
  • LIBRARIES
  • PARKS & REC PRORGAMMING
  • CLUBS AND THEATERS NATIONWIDE
  • FUNDRAISERS
  • TEEN NIGHTS
  • FAMILY NIGHTS
  • BIRTHDAYS – BAR/BAT MITZVAHS SWEET 16s, QUINCEANERAs
  • FIELD TRIPS to TIMES SQUARE – Student groups attend private and public programs at our NYC Theater. UP to 240ppl in one seating

NO TWO SHOWS ARE EVER THE SAME!!!

Every performance is a unique experience to your group. We cannot tell you exactly what these shows are going to be about, however we can promise your organization will be talking about the show for years to come.

Every show starts with out Master of Ceremonies warming up the crowd. We introduce the audience and prepare to be engaged in an interactive musical experience completely created on the spot based on your suggestions and participation.

We then introduce the rest of the cast. We get a suggestion and open with a song. Every show has 3-4 musical numbers – usually a rock n roll style Blues, a peppy Irish Jig, an A Capella Madrigal and more (March, Oldies, etc). Longer shows might include a mini Broadway Musical (Sing It game), or our musical guessing game, Prom Night.

COME BE A PART OF THE SHOW!!!

After the opening number we invite our first audience volunteers to the stage for a round of Sound Effects or Columns. Both games will be found in most shows, using 2-4 volunteers to directly drive the scenes.

One of the most popular games is Freeze Frame (Human Slide Show). Depending on the size of the audience/stage we will invite 5-20 students and even a couple teachers on stage. They are instructed to pose for 3-5 mock photos. We may have inspired the Mannequin Challenge. While a few of our comics mix in with the poses, others narrate the slideshow. Have your own cameras ready because you will get some great yearbook photos in this game. For many shows, we get a historical event to depict. Other times we may ask for a toy or other product and show its invention. For private parties and birthdays we may get a past vacation destination and show “never before seen” photos from the trip.

The rest of the show is pure amazing Improv comedy. We play a number of games and are always adding new ones to the mix.

CLEAN BUT NOT CHEESY

One of the reasons we are so popular and successful is the tone of our shows. We are asked back year after year to elementary schools because we are not overly “kiddie” or “cheesy”. the parents and teachers love the show as much as the kids.

At high schools – and middle schools – we appear to have a MTV or Comedy Central feel. The tone is edgy while we maintain performing subject matter suitable to school settings.

Even when we perform for corporate events and colleges, while the topics are more adult, we steer away from risque (blue) topics.

The older the crowds the more we get topical, dealing with politics, pop culture scandals etc – again with a PG rating suitable for school grades 6-12.

The younger the audience the sillier and more clownish we appear. We do more prat falls and silly voices. We replace political figures with animals and child characters.

But through it all we maintain a high end theatrical experience that more resembles a Broadway show than a cheesy production on Disney or Nickelodeon.

ASK US ABOUT OUR SPECIALIZED PROGRAMMING – SEL (Social Emotional Learning), Anti-Bully (Character Building, Guidance), Story Time (ELA), The Play’s The Thing (Cultural Arts)

SEL – Social Emotional Learning Assembly

Recently commissioned by two Long Island Schools, we have developed the perfect programming to accompany the latest in educational trends. Using Improv we demonstrate performing Emotions and dealing with emotions as actors. We slowly turn the conversation towards students feeling emotions in real life, respecting others emotional states, be valid in feeling a wide range of emotions but being responsible for how they act upon those emotions. The program is 1/2 performance and 1/2 discussion oriented. sel
THE MASK GAME – student wear imaginary masks reflect a wide variety of emotions. We perform that emotion and discuss that emotion.
THE MACHINE – We play a game that requires a large group to work together creating a random series of sounds and movement. We play and laugh together without being mean or hurting anyone. We are also aware of our space and others actions.  This game speaks to all aspects of SEL.
EMOTIONAL CARPOOL – Four characters in a car navigate a series of emotions.
EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER – While performing a scene, the MC calls out a series of emotional states. The actors perform the scene, changing as each emotion is called. For sake of this program, the players also purposely start with poor Improv choices – not “Yes Anding..” (rejecting offers form other player). As the scene progresses the player begin to work better as a team. In the post discussion the students highlight when the scene was working and why. THINK1

THINK BEFORE YOU ACT, SPEAK, TEXT
We tie in to Anti Bully Programming, Cyber Bullying and more.

IMPROV COMEDY WORKSHOPS

Improv 4 Teens

All of our teachers have years of experience in K-12 education. We have a few well versed in special education needs. Tons of fun, these are the coolest ways to teach a number of valuable life skills – Creativity (Writing and Critical Thinking), Community (Team, Respect, Communications, Listening, Focus), Leadership (Public Speaking, Self Confidence).

Each workshop starts with a series of warm-ups and technique building games. As time permits we move into a performance masterclass phase. The goal is to inspire further study. Students have a ton of fun and get to actually perform for each other in the first session. We break down walls of ego and insecurity and build strong skills that help all areas of study.

Improv 4 Teens

COMEDY RESIDENCY AT YOUR SCHOOL

We have a variety of programs sending you teaching artists for a week, two weeks or weekly programs in/after schools. Programs offer a survey program to the entire student population or a focused programs leading to a performance showcase with a particular class of students. Great for Kids and teens Grades 4 and up however we have offered for younger ages.

Past & Current Programs include Queens Prep, Prep Academy for Writers, Flushing High School, Summit School, NEST+m, Williamsburg North, Teachers College Community School, 92Y, Sephardic Community Center, Williamsburg North, Day Camp in the Park (Great Neck), Cherry Hill Camp, Colchester CT Summer Camp, and Private Programs in Manhattan, Glen Cove, Farmingdale etc.

WEEKLY CLASSES – We have a teacher (or two) pop in ever week for 1-2 hours and work with a group of students. In some schools we run 6-8 week programs. Other schools have us for the entire semester/year – lots of options. In each case we run a progressive program that culminates in a performance showcase for friends and family. We have these programs in a number of schools, camps and even private homes around the area. These programs create student leaders. Schools report increase academic performance and attendance form our students. As students lose their fear of pulic engagement, they participate in class. They actively listen, read in class and participate in discussions. the excel at oral presentations.

MINI DAY CAMP / IMPROV INTENSIVE – New this past year, we are sending our teachers around the area this summer, spring break, and winter break to offer 1/2 day programs. A typical week would entail 9am-12pm with a performance showcase Friday at 11am. (Times Flexible). We also provide teachers for full day camp programs etc

FULL WEEK (2 week) RESIDENCY – Our teacher(s) spend the entire week in your school. We go from class to class presenting a basic Improv workshops.

We just started offering this in conjunction with our Professional Development programs. After a workshop with teachers & staff, we teach the teachers how to run games in their class room. We play a series of games that teach team work, listening, focus and more.  In the complete program we follow up with a review program with the teachers. then a final program teaches how to use Improv in teacher sessons to role play conflict resolution and communication challenges with students, parents, administration and each other.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AT YOUR SCHOOL

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Our professional development programs have two primary functions.

  1. Develop strong team skills to better communications and creativity in weekly meetings and daily interactions – similar to our corporate team building programs.
  2. Teach how to use Improv games in the classroom to develop better students.

You can engage us for any or all of the following programs, however, we never start with PHASE FOUR – CONFLICT RESOLUTION. We want to impress the importance with starting o0rm a fun positive place to learn the basic concepts in Improv and begin using in daily operations.

PHASE ONE – Intro to Improv ½ day
COME PLAY WITH US!!! Mini Show & Workshop for teachers; 3-4 teaching artists work with your staff, introducing basic concepts in Improv, develop strong team bonds, and how to use Improv in staff meetings and the classroom. We play a series of warm-up games and wrap with a mini performance masterclass. Tons of fun, they will be talking about this experience for years.

PHASE TWO – Improv in the Class Room 2-4 days depending on your schedule, school size
One of our teachers goes to every classroom. We teach the students some of the same warm-up and performance games as we work with staff on how to teach and lead those games with students.

PHASE THREE – Improv 201 and Review ½ day
Review Workshop and deeper discussion on how to use the “YES! And…” philosophy to better community relations, communications and creating better students. We have teachers practice leadings games. We discuss how to use Improv to role play characters from a novel or play and history/social studies, to develop critical thinking in math and science, and to relieve stress before a test in any subject.

PHASE FOUR – Conflict Resolution Workshop ½ day
In our Final Program, we get a little more serious. We teach how to use Improv to role play various scenarios to help conflict resolution with students, parents, administration and other teacher/staff. In breakout sessions groups develop original skits to demonstrate potential problems. After the performance we open discussion and share ideas to deal with these issues. We customize this to your most pressing needs and teach how to continue forward progress long after we are gone.

 

BUSY BUSY BUSY Improv 4 Kids & Teens Schedule

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BUSY BUSY BUSY Improv 4 Kids & Teens Schedule – Shows & Classes for Kids, Teens and Families in NYC and touring nationwide to theaters, schools, camps, libraries, community centers, private events, fundraisers etc
To inquire about private shows & workshops at our club or bringing our programs to nationwide, email us now. Daily Field Trips, Student/Family Groups at Public Show, Workshops and more. Touring K-12 Schools, Camps, Community Centers, Teen Nights, Fundraisers, Sweet 16s etc.
LIVE Weekly Shows in Times Square
LMAO OFF BROADWAY
Our interactive musical comedy show. All ages welcome at 3pm Matinees. All of our shows are teen friendly. This same show tours colleges, corporate events, private parties, fundraisers and K-12 outreach/events nationwide.
$25 at the door. $5 via discount link CLICK HERE
lmaooffbroadway

SPRING RESIDENCIES Weekly sessions in
Farmindale Long Island NY
Glen Head Long Island NY
Teachers College Community School Harlem
NEST+m Lower East Side
Williamsburg North Brooklyn
Summit School Queens
Flushing High School Queens
Queens Prep Queens
Public Classes at the Broadway Comedy Club More about Classes in Times Square
comedyschool

MAY 2017 

May 6 3pm LMAO OFF BROADWAY CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
May 7 3pm LMAO OFF BROADWAY CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
May 9 Assembly Shows at Bronx School
May 11 Field Trip hosting students from Great Oaks Charter School and Hyde Leadership Charter School
May 12 Field Trip hosting students from Success AcademyBed-Stuy Middle School
May 13 3pm LMAO OFF BROADWAY CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
May 14 3pm LMAO OFF BROADWAY CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
May 19 Field Trip hosting students from Growing Up Green Middle School
May 20 3pm LMAO OFF BROADWAY CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
May 21 3pm LMAO OFF BROADWAY CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
May 23 Field Trip hosting students from PS/MS 278
May 26 Field Trip hosting students from
May 27 3pm LMAO OFF BROADWAY CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
May 28 3pm LMAO OFF BROADWAY CLICK HERE for $5 ticket

June 2017

June 3 3pm LMAO OFF BROADWAY CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
June 4 8pm LMAO ALL STARS – For the first time in over 2 years, a public show with nothing BUT our top players 2009-2011 Off Broadway Cast. June 4 Starring Patrick Reidy, Amelia Fowler, Andrew Del Vecchio,  Liz Lord, Thomas Burns Scully CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
June 10 CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
June 17 3pm LMAO OFF BROADWAY CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
June 24 3pm LMAO OFF BROADWAY CLICK HERE for $5 ticket
June 26-29 Mini Comedy Day Camp in Cherry Hill, NJ
June 28 WORKSHOP at Locust Valley Library  Long Island NY
June 29 Show at Kings Bay Y Brooklyn NY

JULY 2017

July 2 8pm LMAO ALL STARS – For the first time in over 2 years, a public show with nothing BUT our top players 2009-2011 Off Broadway Cast. Featuring LMAO Founders Walt Frasier, Laurice Fattal
July 6  SHOW at Glen Cove Library Long Island NY
July 7 Shows at International Sports Center Cherry Hill NJ
July 10-14 – SUMMER 2017 COMEDY DAY CAMP in TIMES SQUARE NYC
July 10 FIELD TRIP in Times Square hosting group from Woodmont Day Camp
July 11 FIELD TRIP hosting group from COMPASS Program @ PS 217
July 11 WORKSHOP at Elmont Library Long Island NY
July 11 WORKSHOP at Locust Valley Library  Long Island NY
July 11 Show at Kings Bay Y Brooklyn NY
July 13 FIELD TRIP hosting group from COMPASS Program @ PS 217
July 14 Summer Camp Show in Port Washington Long Island NY
July 14 Show at Kings Bay Y Brooklyn NY
July 17-21 SUMMER 2017 COMEDY DAY CAMP in TIMES SQUARE
July 17 Show for Summer Camp in Ocean NJ
July 18 FIELD TRIP in Times Square hosting group from Central Queens Y
July 19 SHOW at Islip Library Long Island NY
July 19 SHOW at Northport Library Long Island NY
July 20  Show for Summer Camp in Goshen CT
July 20 FIELD TRIP hosting group from COMPASS Program @ PS 217
July 24-28 Mini Improv Comedy Day Camp Colchester CT
July 25 Summer Camp Show in North Hempstead Long Island NY
July 26 FIELD TRIP in Times Square hosting group from Innovation Academy Charter School
July 27 FIELD TRIP in Times Square hosting group from EDITH AND CARL MARKS JCH OF BENSONHURST

AUGUST STARTING TO FILL UP TOO!

July 31-August 4 SUMMER 2017 COMEDY DAY CAMP in TIMES SQUARE
July 31 FIELD TRIP in Times Square hosting group from Central Queens Y
August 2 FIELD TRIP in Times Square hosting group from Lakeland Hills Family YMCA NJ

August 2 FIELD TRIP in Times Square hosting group from

P.S. 90 The Magnet School for Environmental  Studies & Community Wellness  

August 3 FIELD TRIP in Times Square hosting group from EDITH AND CARL MARKS JCH OF BENSONHURST

August 4 FIELD TRIP in Times Square hosting group from Harlem YMCA

August 4 Show at Kings Bay Y Brooklyn NY
September 1 FIELD TRIP in Times Square hosting group from Jennifer Tai Clover Prep Learning Center

FALL CLASSES START

October 18 WORKSHOP at Elmont Library

2016-2017 Student Group Rates to IMPROV Shows & Workshops

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FIELD TRIPS – AFTER SCHOOL – STUDENT TOUR GROUPS
“Humor and creativity work in similar ways,” says humor guru William Fry, M.D., of Stanford University. “By creating relationships between two disconnected items, you engage the whole brain.” More about the benefits of laughter CLICK HERE
EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH 
presents 
LAUGH MY ANKLES OFF
.Interactive Improv Comedy in Times Square
Email today for more information on booking your group!
– The talent of an off-Broadway show.
– The flexibility/budget of a comedy club.  
– The perfect edutainment addition to any student group in New York City. 
8sidebar-classesSHOWS
EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH is an interactive musical comedy created on the spot based on audience suggestions and participation. You never know what the show will be about because the audience directs and helps write the show. The quick wit of the cast amazingly reacts to any situation. As a result the show is always fast paced, topical and hilarious. This off-Broadway comedy revue hosts hundreds of student groups every year as well as touring nationwide since 2004.
WORKSHOPS
A must for any performance group, Improv workshops also teach invaluable life skills for all students – Creativity (Writing and Critical Thinking),  Community (Team, Respect, Listening) and Leadership (Public Speaking, Focus, Self-Confidence)

DAYTIME SHOWS

Starting by 5pm or earlier; No earlier than 9am
Smaller Groups $20pp Public Show includes complimentary Bottled Water
– 3pm Matinees Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday
– during summer and vacation weeks public matinees can be added other days
LARGER GROUPS
$600 Private show up to 50 students – $10pp additional student
$1200 up to 150 students (Max capacity 168 w/ chaperons)
EVENING SHOWS
 
Smaller Groups – $25pp Public Show includes complimentary Bottled Water
Larger Groups – $1000 private show for up to 50ppl
Additional guest $20pp (Max capacity 150ppl)
– shows added daily for groups
– 7pm arrival, 7:15 show, 8:45 dismissal
ADD-ON OPTIONS
Add workshop before/after show +$5/student 45-60 minutes
Add NYC Pizza Party +$10pp
Add Chicken Fingers and Fries Dinner $15pp + tax/tip
Add Gourmet Deli Wraps, Salads, Chips, Cookies (Most popular adult group lunch option) $25pp + tax/tip

BROADWAY CLASSROOM

Workshop Booked w/o show $300/teacher (Up to 20 students, up to 2 hours). Bring our teacher to any venue in NYC for just $250 Up to 2 hours.

BRING THIS SHOW/WORKSHOP PROGRAM TO YOUR SCHOOL

  • Assemblies
  • After-School
  • PTA/PTO/Family Nights/Fundraiser
  • Back to School Events
  • Field Day
  • Residencies
  • Professional Development for teachers

Rates vary per region and season. Email today for more information.

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