Step into the world of longform improv with Chicago-trained improviser Lauren Ainsworth! Lauren began her improv journey at just 17 years old right here at Bay Cities Story Company, where she learned the foundations of ensemble work, character creation, and spontaneous storytelling. She continued her training at the University of South Alabama, performing with their improv troupe Improv USA, before co-founding her own sketch and improv group, Dude Cave.

Lauren later moved to Chicago—the heart of American improv—where she trained and graduated from the legendary iO (ImprovOlympic), home of the Harold and countless influential performers.

This high-energy, hands-on workshop will introduce you to a variety of longform structures, teach you how to identify and build patterns, and show you how to create your own original formats. Whether you’re brand-new to longform or looking to expand your repertoire, you’ll learn skills you can immediately apply to scenes, shows, and creative projects.

Come ready to play, explore, and discover new possibilities in your improv!