What to expect in an online improv class!

So this is what Zoom's AI thought the class was. Close but not quite:) If you want to see what its really like why not sign up for my improv for non-actors and beginners class!

Quick Recap

The group welcomed Daniel back to the online improv class and caught up on recent activities before warming up with several improv games, including word association and category exercises. The team then moved into a variety of improvisational activities—selling imaginary products, yes-and drills, and scene work—while Gary provided feedback on performance and technique. The session wrapped with additional role-playing games, character sketches, and announcements about schedule changes for upcoming Tuesday online improv meetings.

Full Class Summary

Class Updates and Online Improv Game Planning

The class welcomed Daniel back after some time away. The group discussed recent personal updates, such as Rita’s New York trip and Lulu’s snowy weekend in Chicago. Gary noted that Nora was out sick after returning from Italy and might switch to the Tuesday online improv class

. Gary then organized the order of students—Rita, Devon, Lulu, Sam, Helen, and Daniel—for the night’s improv exercises.

Adidas Speedo Toy – Improv Game Discussion

To warm up, the group played classic online improv warm-ups like word association and last-letter games. Gary introduced a “package” game where Daniel had to describe a fictional stress toy wearing an Adidas Speedo—supposedly a $55,000 limited-edition collectible on eBay. The class used the toy as an improvisation prompt, creating a humorous backstory that tied into the overarching online improv theme of the night.

Monocle Sales Pitch – Yes-And Improv Exercise

Next, the class practiced a yes-and style improv game where Rita and Sam built a comedic sales pitch for a monocle set. They incorporated fun character choices—like using monocles to “sex up” boyfriends or wearing two at once. Gary, teaching the fundamentals of online improv training, highlighted this as a great example of building on your partner’s choices.

Team Exercises, Imaginary Objects & Online Schedule Changes

More improv games followed, including selling imaginary products:

• Lulu and Devon pitched glow-in-the-dark and rainbow spatulas.

• Daniel and Helen showcased three sets of colorful, $3 maracas useful in transportation settings.

Gary announced a key scheduling update: the Wednesday 7:30 PM class is ending after this week, with everyone moving to Tuesdays at 5 PM for the new Zoom improv class format. Tanya, Marco, and Devon will attend regularly, and some may join the Monday online improv sessions too.

The class then practiced a three-line scene game—great for beginners learning improv online—beginning with Helen.

Improv Techniques, Feedback & Role-Playing Scenes

Gary coached students on improv technique, emphasizing giving information upfront rather than asking pressure-filled questions. The group played the online improv game Status Switch, with Rita and Lulu shifting between high-status and low-status characters inside a mall setting.

Status and Character Work – Feedback Session

The class continued with mall-based role-playing scenes exploring status dynamics, with Gary offering performance notes to help students grow in their improv abilities, even in an online setting. The group prepared to play the improv game Adjectives after a quick break.

Chicago Snow & Burglary Scene – Adjectives Game

The group chatted about Chicago’s recent 10–11 inches of snow and 4-degree temperatures before playing Adjectives. In the scene:

• Daniel played a polite, overly courteous burglar.

• Rita played a sleepy victim.

The silly character choices made the scene a strong example of how online improv classes can still generate vivid, surprising moments.

Coworker Scene – Performance Review

In another improv exercise, Sam and Devon played basement coworkers using assigned adjectives (“surprised” and “snarky”). Devon repeatedly tried to shock Sam with claims about stolen money and a gun. Sam matched with exaggerated sarcasm. Gary praised their commitment and bold choices—great foundational skills for both improv beginners and experienced players in online classes.

Reunion Game Night – Party-Style Improv

The group played a guessing game where Lulu and Helen, former high-school rivals, wore retro cheerleading and 1960s outfits. They found items from Lulu’s old boyfriend Eddie in an attic trunk. Gary led a party-style improv guessing game where participants had to guess occupations through indirect clues—an ideal exercise for Zoom improv classes and online game nights. A freeze game was planned if time allowed.

Improv Party & Free Online Class Invitation

Gary hosted an online improv party featuring quick character sketches. The group also created an alphabet story about Betty in Kalamazoo hunting for a unicorn, ending humorously