Improv Class FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How are classes structured?
The curriculum focues on doing and watching. There is very little lecture. Any given class (each 2.5 hours in length), you do anywhere between 10 and 15 exercises.
Who designed the improv classes at the Bovine?
Eric Farone - the Master Instructor, Improv Curriculum Creator, and Artistic Director - has, for many years, 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?
No previous experience necessary! All you need is an open mind and a desire to learn.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. Requirements for these classes will be noted on the website.
I have previous acting and improvisation experience, do I have to start at Level 1?
Yes, in our curriculum all levels and experience start at Level 1.
What is the minimum age for adult classes?
18.
I just want to have fun. Is this for serious actors or performers only?
No, these classes are for people who want to have fun and feel more comfortable in their own skin, do something different, and push themselves into an area of unfamiliarity. AND for people 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! All we focus on is having fun. Don't worry about being funny - it isn't as important as you would think.
I get really nervous and I 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, 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?
Unfortunately, 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?
Unfortunately, we are not able to refund tuition due to absences. We do 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 requiring a performance is Level 5.
Is there outside work?
There is some ocassional homework, but it is typically observational. It takes 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 students taking our classes in our shows, so you are in the right place! We send information about auditions in the newsletter, and you may also access it on the "auditions" page of the website. Also, you may audition to join a house team at any time.
How experienced are the instructors?
Every instructor has been through the entire curriculum and certified by Eric Farone, the Program Creator. All instructors are 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 drive our work. With three-dimensional characters, scenes capture and hold an audience's attention. In Level 2, you will learn how to create new characters and fine-tune existing ones, interact and build relationships with other characters, and draw off of suggestions to design dynamic characters and relationships. All of level 2 assumes and builds upon work done in Level 1. And of course, as before, we want you to have fun!
Level 3 - Basics of scene work (Prerequisite: Level 2)
In Level 3, emphasis is placed on the relationship, challenging staging issues, and creating a rising action in the scene. Scene work has been practiced in the previous 2 levels, however now the focus is the on scene itself. All of Level 3 assumes and builds upon work done in levels 1 and 2. And of course, as before, we want you to have fun!
Level 4 - Advanced scene work (Prerequisite: Level 3)
Level 4 is dedicated to creating dynamic and interesting scenes. The actors will work to be able to find scenes together from the moment they enter the stage, without any invention or preconception . Using techniques synthesized from years of improvisational study, curriculum creator Eric Farone will teach the secret of successful scenes. Level 4 assumes and builds upon work done in levels 1, 2 & 3. And of course, as before, we want you to have fun!
Level 5 - Graduation Show (Prerequisite: Level 4)
Level 5 has a director (versus an instructor) and is structured so that the 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.
