Many improv sets successfully initiate, find a fun idea, or stumble onto something shiny, only to abandon it moments later in search of the next interesting thing.

Sometimes we do the opposite: we find something playable and extract everything from it so quickly that we’re left with a hollowed-out mine that collapses under its own weight.

Like inexperienced miners, we either grab whatever glints in the light and move on, or forget to diversify and build sustainably. We don’t dig deep enough to uncover the rich vein of comedy just beneath the surface, or we forget there’s more gold on the other side of the mountain.

This workshop is about slowing down, committing, and excavating the comedic gold that’s already there.

Mine and Refine focuses on how to recognize what the audience finds funny, label it clearly, dig into justification, and stay with it long enough to uncover a fully playable game. Sometimes, while digging, you’ll accidentally strike something even richer—and when that happens, it’s okay to abandon one mine for another. The key is learning when to stay, when to dig deeper, and when to move on.

We’ll also discuss how having sharp tools—shared language, connection, rehearsal habits, and team alignment—makes it easier to find your gold faster. And what happens after you strike it: how to extract, heighten, diversify, and ultimately know when a mine has run its course.

Tom Smaldone was in Backline's 1st class 15 years ago and went on to train at UCB where he was on their Mess Hall team "Possum", and is now a member of the Denver Improv Festival!

No refunds. Most classes are held at Backline, some upstairs on the 2nd floor of the Keeline Building. Contact Dylan Rohde at [email protected] with any questions.