Improv Class FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the structure of the class?
The curriculum is designed so that you learn by doing and watching. There is very little lecture and the student discovers the lesson by doing the exercise and by watching others do it. You would do anywhere between 10 - 15 exercises in any given class (2.5 hours)
Who designed the improv classes at the Bovine?
Eric Farone - the Master Instructor, Improv Curriculum Creator, and Artistic Director - has, for many years, has been teaching improvisation to some of Denver's top improv groups such as The ACME Comedy Players, HeadGames, and the SansScript Players. Eric received his training in Chicago's Second City, Improv Olympic, and the Annoyance Theater.
What does Level 1 cover?
A brief timeline of the history of improv. Getting used to being on stage. Learning how to listen, communicate and to give/take focus on stage. Learning to work with others on stage and with invisible objects, furniture, and locations. Learning the basics rules of improvisation. Having fun!
Do I have to have acting or improvisation experience to enroll in Level 1?
The only thing needed is an open mind and a desire to learn something new! Previous experience is not necessary.
What about the Master Classes and Workshops listed on your "Improv Workshops" webpage?
Many of our advanced classes and workshops do require that you be a Bovine graduate or that you schedule an audition. Classes with this requirement will be noted as such.
I have previous acting and improvisation experience, do I have to start at Level 1?
Yes, all levels and experience start at Level 1 in our curriculum.
What is the minimum age for adult classes?
18.
I just want to have fun. Is this for serious actors or performers only?
No, this class is for people that want to have fun, be more comfortable in their skin, do something different, push themselves into an area of unfamiliarity, AND for people that are interested in acting and performing.
What is the typical age of someone taking improv classes?
All ages and backgrounds take improvisation classes. We could have a college student and a retired grandparent in the same class.
I'm not funny. Should I take this class?
Absolutely yes! We focus on having fun in the class. Don't worry about being funny - it isn't as important as you would think.
I get really nervous and am shy. Should I take this class?
Yes. As a matter of fact, this class will help you get over some of fears associated with shyness and nervousness in front of others.
Can I miss a class?
We recommend no more than 2 absences per 8 week level if you plan to continue to the next level in the program.
Can I make up a class if I have to miss?
Yes, we have other classes that will be repeating the class you missed. You can arrange to make it up on another night with a different instructor.
Can I get a refund if I'm not able to finish the level?
No, we are sorry, but once a class has started, we are not able to refund tuition. We can, however, offer class credit good for 1 full year.
Can I get a refund or pro-rated tuition if I need to miss a class?
No, we are sorry, but we can't refund tuition due to absences. We offer an opportunity for students to make up missed classes with other concurrent or future classes.
Am I obligated to continue past Level 1?
No, there is no obligation to continue past any level.
Am I required to perform?
The only level where there is a required performance is Level 5.
Is there outside work?
There is some homework, but it is typically observational in manner. It would be no more than 5 or 10 minutes.
Is there any required reading?
No, but we will give you a list of suggested reading if you are interested in learning more on the subject of improvisation.
What opportunities are there to perform before I reach Level 5?
We prefer to cast for our shows from our classes, so you are in the right place! We will do internal and external auditions and there is an opportunity to join an in-house troupe at any time. In-house troupes perform at the Improv Hootenanny (Mondays), Tuesday Night Throwdown (Tuesdays), BMX (Thursdays), and On The Spot (Fridays and Saturdays) in the theater.
How experienced are the instructors?
Every instructor has been through the curriculum and has been certified by Eric Farone, the program creator. All instructors are also improvisers themselves and love the art form. All instructors are regularly monitored and continue training under Eric Farone.
What do Levels 2 - 5 cover?
Level 2 - Characters (Prerequisite: Level 1)
Characters are what drive our work. Without the ground work taught in Level 1, the actor would have to split focus between characters and stage work. With 3- dimensional characters, scenes capture and hold an audience's attention. Learn how to create new characters and how to fine tune existing ones. All of level 2 assumes and builds upon work done in Level 1. To have fun!
Level 3 - Basics of scene work (Prerequisite: Level 2)
Emphasis is placed on the relationship, challenging staging issues, and creating a rising action in the scene. Scene work is practiced in the previous 2 levels, however, now the focus of this level is the scene itself. All of level 3 assumes and builds upon work done in levels 1 & 2. To have fun!
Level 4 - Advanced scene work (Prerequisite: Level 3)
Is dedicated to creating scenes which are dynamic and interesting from the first moment of the scene. The actors will be able to find the scene together without any invention or preconception. Using techniques synthesized from many years of studying improvisation, curriculum creator Eric Farone teaches the secret of successful scenes that have infinite directions in which they could take. Level 4 assumes and builds upon work done in levels 1, 2 & 3. To have fun!
Level 5 - Graduation Show (Prerequisite: Level 4)
A graduation show created by the students and Director. Level 5 has a Director (versus an instructor) and is structured so that the now performers/students create a unique long form improvisation show. Level 5 draws upon all four previous levels to create a new art form. The graduation show will have a 4-week run on an off night at The Bovine Metropolis Theater.
