Narrative Longform

Saturday, October 10

1:30-3:30PM

Max Participants: 12

Pre-req: Participants should have at least some improv experience 

Instructors: Shelby Burton & Joe Burton

Discover the art of creating compelling stories without a script in this narrative longform improv workshop. You'll learn to build characters, meaningful relationships, and satisfying story arcs through collaborative scene work. Through guided exercises and ensemble play, you'll strengthen your listening, commitment, and storytelling instincts. This class emphasizes discovering a story together in the moment. Whether you're new to longform or looking to deepen your improv skills, you'll leave with practical tools and greater confidence as a storyteller.

Instructor Bios:

Shelby Burton is a dynamic Chicago-based performer, director, and educator with a deep commitment to inclusive and innovative storytelling. She currently serves as the Artistic Director of Bughouse Theater, where she cultivates fresh, fearless comedic and theatrical work.

Shelby is the co-producer of Forward in Comfortable Shoes, a groundbreaking showcase that uplifts and celebrates non-conforming artists, providing a platform for diverse voices in the Chicago performance community.

A seasoned improviser and actor, Shelby performs regularly in a range of productions across the city. Her credits include Ladies of Chicago at iO Theater, Hodgepodge at Bughouse Theater, Rhythm Woman Nation 2 Prov, and Improvised Golden Age Radio Hour. She is also a featured performer on the Fowler Family Radio Hour podcast, bringing character-rich storytelling to life in the audio space.

In addition to her performance work, Shelby is a passionate teacher, sharing her love for the craft with students of all ages. Whether in the classroom or on stage, she brings warmth, humor, and a strong sense of community to everything she does.

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Joe Burton is one of the founders and the executive director of Bughouse Theater in Chicago and member of the Improvised Shakespeare Company.  He has been improvising since the age of 16, which is longer than he'd like to admit.  He is also a children's librarian with Chicago Public Library and loves to write children's music and perform it for anyone who will listen. If you enjoy poorly curated social media accounts you'll love his Instagram: @itsLibraryJoe

We cannot offer refunds on ticket purchases. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before showtime. Arriving 10 minutes or more after showtime may result in forfeiting your seats. MAIN ENTRANCE and PARKING is around back, behind Two Scott's BBQ and accessed from Quarry Ave. (follow signs) Additional free parking available on the street and at Two Scott's BBQ.