A TWICE-yearly improv show is returning to the stage this spring.
Stroud Improv, a comedy improvisation group based in Stroud, will perform at the Lansdown Hall on Sunday, April 12, with doors opening at 6.30pm.
Founded and led by improviser Rebecca MacMillan, the group offers weekly drop-in improv classes at the Centre for Science and Art, on Lansdown in Stroud.
The classes focus on building creativity, confidence and connection through playful theatre games and exercises.
Ms MacMillan said: "Improv sounds terrifying but the experience is honestly not what most people imagine.
"You’re there to support each other and build ideas together—we call it having each other’s backs.
"In class, I encourage people to explore their initial ideas without judgement, to develop confidence and uncover creative sides they didn’t know they had."
Made famous in the UK by Who’s Line Is It Anyway? and now enjoying a resurgence through platforms such as Dropout TV, improv comedy is entirely unscripted and created in the moment.
Stroud Improv’s upcoming showcase will feature live, audience-inspired comedy performed by class alumni—all created spontaneously on stage.
Tickets are available for £10 online and £11 on the door.
Tickets can be booked at https://ticketlab.app/event/37315#
The show is open to audiences aged 14 and over, with occasional strong language or innuendo possible due to the improvised nature of the performance.
Chris, a regular attendee at the improv classes, praised the group, saying: "Rebecca holds the space beautifully, using her extensive experience and openness to support those on their first night, or 17th year, to share the joy of improv, laugh a lot and learn together."
Uta, another participant, said: "Stroud Improv offers the chance to be silly, playful, creative and to laugh for two hours with a diverse group of people and a super fun teacher."
Stroud Improv classes take place every Thursday during term time from 6.30pm to 8pm.
They are open to all, regardless of experience.
Participation in the live performances is optional, but for those who take part, the show offers a chance to demonstrate their skills in front of an audience – and perhaps inspire newcomers to give improv a try.
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