Collin - Improvisational theatre teacher - Chicago

1^st lesson free

Collin

Rate $30
Response 1h

$30/h

1^st lesson free

Improvisational theatre
Theatre

Professional comedian and director with 15+ years teaches improv, sketch writing, and comedic performance for all levels in person and online

Improvisational theatre
Theatre

Lesson location

- online

About Collin

I'm a professional comedian, director, and teacher with over 15 years of experience in improv and sketch comedy. My journey began performing with The Beards Comedy ensemble and teaching at the MSAE High School Improv Program, where I discovered my passion for helping others unlock their comedic potential.

I've trained extensively at some of comedy's most respected institutions—completing the Second City Conservatory, UCB's full improv program, and advanced directing courses at iO Theater. I've also studied comedy writing directly with Scott Dikkers and The Onion, which has shaped my approach to crafting sharp, intelligent humor.

As a director, I've created and staged multiple sketch revues using the improv-to-sketch development process, transforming spontaneous moments into polished performances. I've worked across multiple mediums—live performance, film, and digital content—giving me a comprehensive understanding of how comedy works in different contexts.

My teaching philosophy is rooted in creating supportive environments where students feel empowered to take creative risks. I've seen firsthand how the right balance of structure and freedom helps performers discover their authentic voice. Former students have gone on to pursue comedy professionally, and many credit our work together as instrumental in their development.

Beyond the stage, I'm a published comedy writer with an essay in "Welcome to the Future Which Is Mine" from Grand Central Publishing. I've also worked as a producer, performer, and technical director on various comedy projects, which gives me practical insight into the full creative process from concept to execution.

What drives me as a teacher is witnessing that moment when a student stops overthinking and just commits—when they surprise themselves with their own creativity. Whether you're looking to overcome stage fright, write your first sketch, or refine your comedic instincts, I bring patience, expertise, and genuine enthusiasm to every lesson.

I believe comedy is one of the most powerful tools we have for connection, perspective, and joy. I'd be honored to help you develop your skills and discover what makes your comedic voice unique.

About the lesson

MY TEACHING APPROACH
I believe the best comedy comes from a foundation of trust, playfulness, and structured freedom. My teaching method draws from over 15 years of professional experience directing sketch shows, performing with improv troupes, and training at Second City, UCB, and iO Theater. I create an environment where students feel safe to take risks, make bold choices, and discover their unique comedic voice.
TEACHING METHOD AND TECHNIQUES
My approach combines practical exercises with real-world application. I use the improv-to-sketch process I've refined through directing multiple shows, where spontaneous scenes are developed into polished written material. Students learn by doing—we don't just talk about comedy theory, we create it together in real time.
I focus on:

Building confidence through supportive ensemble work
Teaching the fundamentals of "yes, and" thinking and active listening
Developing character work and comedic timing
Translating improvised moments into structured sketches
Providing constructive feedback that encourages growth

A TYPICAL LESSON PLAN
We begin with warm-up exercises to get bodies moving and minds loosened up. Then we dive into targeted skill-building through improv games and scene work, whether that's focusing on character development, heightening techniques, or finding the game of the scene.
For sketch writing students, we'll analyze successful sketches, identify patterns and structures, then apply those lessons to your own writing. I provide detailed feedback on drafts and help you punch up your material.
Each session ends with reflection time where we discuss what worked, what didn't, and how to apply these lessons moving forward.
WHAT SETS ME APART
I bring a director's eye to teaching. Having directed numerous sketch revues and coached performers at the high school and adult levels, I can spot potential in a scene and guide students toward realizing it. My background in video production also means I can help students understand how comedy translates to different mediums.
I balance structure with chaos—keeping sessions focused while allowing enough creative freedom for unexpected brilliance to emerge. My students describe my approach as thoughtful, patient, and organic, creating space for genuine discovery rather than forcing predetermined outcomes.
WHO THESE LESSONS ARE FOR
My lessons work for:

Complete beginners curious about improv or comedy writing with no prior experience
Intermediate performers looking to sharpen their skills and develop their voice
Advanced students preparing for auditions at comedy theaters or wanting to create their own shows
Writers interested in sketch comedy, comedic essays, or translating their humor to the page
Groups wanting team-building through improv exercises
Anyone who wants to be funnier, think more creatively, or overcome fear of performance

Whether you're 15 or 50, shy or outgoing, I meet you where you are and help you grow from there.

Rates

Rate

Pack rates

5h: $150
10h: $300

online

$30/h

free lessons

This first lesson offered with Collin will allow you to get to know each other and clearly specify your needs for your next lessons.

Professional comedian and director with 15+ years teaches improv, sketch writing, and comedic performance for all levels in person and online

Lesson location

About Collin

About the lesson

Rates

Rate

Pack rates

online

free lessons

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Professional comedian and director with 15+ years teaches improv, sketch writing, and comedic performance for all levels in person and online

Lesson location

About Collin

About the lesson

Rates

Rate

Pack rates

online

free lessons

Other tutors in Improvisational theatre

Lee

Jérôme

Yuri

Adam

Axel

Liam

Artur

Tara

Gabriel

Michelle

ELIF

Jesse

Yana

Oceana

ISABELLE

Dennis

Adélie

Krista

John

Delyse

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