Teaching Improv
A Guide for Facilitators and Coaches
Understanding Your Learners
Before writing a lesson plan, understand the group. Are people complete beginners or do they have training? What are their goals? Adapt your approach to their needs. Give beginners strong foundations and a safer space; offer experienced groups more complex games and theory.
Structuring a Workshop
Warm-ups
Start with games that help the group move out of self-conscious thinking and energize the room.
Examples: Zip Zap Zop, Pass Catch, Sound Circle.
Skill-building
Use part of the session for exercises that target specific improv skills.
Examples: “Yes, And…” exercises, listening, object work, character.
Scene Work
Make time for the group to apply those skills in scenes.
Examples: Two-person scenes, group scenes, or long-form structures.
Discussion and Notes
End with reflection, questions, and constructive feedback.
Examples: Group discussion, shared observations, questions and answers.
Selecting the Right Games
Games by Skill Focus
Listening Games
Ask players to attend closely to what others say and do.
Storytelling Games
Develop collaborative narrative-building.
Character Games
Help players create and explore different characters.
Status & Relationship
Explore relationships and shifting status dynamics.
Agreement Games
Practice the core principle of “Yes, And…”.
Games by Group Size
Solo Games and Exercises
Activities for practising skills individually.
Two-Person Games
Games designed for pairs.
Small Group (3–5 people)
Activities suited to smaller ensembles.
Large Group (6+ people)
Games that accommodate a larger ensemble.
Techniques for Effective Facilitation
Demonstrate Games
Explain and show how a game works before asking the group to play.
Give Clear Instructions
Break complex games into simple steps and check understanding.
Create a Safer Space
Build an environment in which people feel comfortable taking creative risks.
Manage Energy
Match the energy level to the activity and group size.
Listen Actively
Notice verbal and non-verbal feedback from the group.
Adapt & Improvise
Modify games and exercises in response to group dynamics.
Giving Effective Feedback
Focus on What Worked
Begin with effective choices to build confidence before offering critique.
Be Specific
Instead of “good scene”, name the effective choice, such as using object work to establish the environment.
Give Actionable Advice
Offer suggestions people can apply consciously in future scenes or exercises.
Balance Individual and Group Notes
Address individual choices and observations relevant to the whole group.
Use Side Coaching
Offer brief, supportive prompts during scenes without disrupting their flow.
Encourage Peer Feedback
Build a supportive environment where participants can offer constructive notes.