Have fun, build self-confidence, discover your comedic voice, and make new friends in our Introduction to Improv class! In this survey of the basic principles of long-form improv comedy, students will learn how to create improv scenes from scratch in a fun, fast-paced, and supportive environment. We'll explore core improv concepts such as agreement, heightening, and authenticity, and will deploy those concepts using techniques such as monologues, group games, and two-person scenes. The class will culminate in a showcase performance for friends and family at the Commodore in Ybor City. No previous experience necessary.

CLASS DATES
Unlike our regular six-week session, this weekend intensive compresses the Level One experience into three fun-filled days.

Dates are as follows:

Class 1: Saturday, January 17: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (hour break for lunch)
Class 2: Sunday, January 18: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Class 3: Saturday, January 24: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM (hour break for lunch)

The class graduation performance will take place in late January!

AGE REQUIREMENT

Unless otherwise stated, all improv classes at The Commodore are for adults 18 and up. Please be on the lookout for youth offerings in 2026!

WHAT IF I NEED TO MISS A CLASS? CAN I STILL SIGN UP?
For our six week sessions, yes, but for this weekend intensive, no! Please plan to attend all three class sessions.

FREE ADMISSION TO ALL COMMODORE SHOWS & WEEKLY DROP-IN
Your Level One class enrollment comes with two great benefits! During the period of your class enrollment, you receive free admission to all theater-produced shows *and* our Weekly Improv Drop-In Class on Thursday nights. We encourage you to avail yourself of these great perks! For Level One Intensive participants, we are happy to extend these benefits for the entire month of January 2026.

INSTRUCTOR BIO
Lauren Ross has been a prominent figure in the Tampa Bay improv scene since 2018. They completed the training program at Florida Studio Theatre in Sarasota and have also honed their skills at SAK Comedy Lab and American Stage Theatre. Recently, Lauren had the exciting opportunity to study improv in Amsterdam during the Impro Amsterdam Festival. Additionally, Lauren is a classically trained vocalist, having received a BA in Music from Florida State University. 

Over the years, Lauren has performed with a variety of teams and has been privileged to participate in comedy festivals such as the Countdown Improv Festival, the Palm Beach Improv Festival, and O-Town Improv Festival.

Outside of performing, Lauren teaches applied improvisation skills to business teams in the local area. They believe improv is an art form that imparts valuable lessons both on stage and in everyday life. Lauren aims to share this joy with as many people as possible.

Community has always held great significance for Lauren, both personally and professionally. They are passionate about learning this art form but also teaching it, with the hope that our community continues to flourish. As a teacher, they strive to create a safe and supportive space for everyone to grow, heal, explore, learn, and play – but most importantly, to HAVE FUN!