What is improv?
Great question! Well, according to Wikipedia: “Improvisational theatre, often called improv or impro, is a form of theater where most or all of what is performed is created at the moment it is performed. In its purest form, the dialogue, action, story, and characters are created collaboratively by the players as the improvisation unfolds in the present time, without the use of an already prepared, written script.”
ABOUT US
What is Improv Hawaii?
Improv Hawaii is a Honolulu-based improv collective offering monthly classes and shows for every level. No experience is needed.
How did Improv Hawaii originate?
Since returning home to Hawaii, Improv Hawaii (aka improvhi) founder & professional actor Kimee Balmilero (Hawaii Five-0, Magnum PI, Doogie Kameloha M.D) wanted to share her love of improv comedy with an online calendar of local improv events.
Established in 2012, Improv Hawaii quickly moved from just an online calendar to hosting original shows and classes in several locations around Honolulu.
In 2020, Improv Hawaii acquired The Tiny Stage, a small class and studio space in Kakaako. Since then, improvhi has been able to host new classes every month and several original monthly comedy shows, including Nerd Nite, The Improvised Musical, and our Open Improv Jam.
Made up of a group of young (and not so “young) adults, our core team of players and instructors consists of professional actors, writers, school teachers, musicians, web developers, parents, scientists, data analysts, realtors, stay-at-home parents, and everyday folks. We believe in building a supportive community and space where all feel safe, included, and funny. We hope to see you soon!
QUESTIONS ABOUT CLASSES
Where are classes held?
The majority of our Improv Hawaii Classes are held at The Tiny Stage in Kakaako unless specified otherwise. The Tiny Stage address is 419 South Street #163 (watch this video for directions).
I have no improv or performing experience; can I still take a class?
Absolutely! Our goal is to create a safe, fun, and non-judgmental space for all students no matter what level of experience.
Who should take an improv class?
Improv is for everyone! No matter if you are an actor looking to sharpen skills or someone who just wants to break out of their shell and have fun. Our classes are designed to support the needs of anyone who walks through our doors. Let’s play!
What type of classes do you offer?
Improv Hawaii offers monthly improv and acting classes for every level. See class descriptions here.
Which class should I take?
We recommend that all students new to improv take our 101 Basics Class (6 weeks) or our Super Beginner Workshop (1 night) to jump-start their Improv Hawaii adventures.
How much does a class cost?
Most classes range from $12-$25 an hour. Most 2-hour workshops are $35 ($17.50/hr), and our 6-week 101 Basics Class is $185 (15 hours X $12.33). Special workshops may cost more depending on subject and instructor.
How often do classes meet?
Our 101 Basics Class runs for 2.5 hours a night for 6 consecutive weeks. Special workshops typically meet for one to two nights for 2 hours.
I can’t make it to all nights for the 101 classes. Can I get a discounted price?
We do not pro-rate classes. Students are asked to pay the full amount no matter how many classes are missed.
What if I have to miss some of the 101 classes? Can I still move on to the next level?
Students are only allowed to miss 2 classes in our 101 Improv Basics Class and 1 class in our 101 Acting Class in order to move on.
Do you offer make-up classes?
While it’s not guaranteed, we will do our best to accommodate you in future classes within 3 months of your missed class. Availability will depend on scheduling and registration.
Can I sit in on a class to check it out first?
Sorry. Class auditing is not permitted.
Where do I park?
There are paid parking structures in the surrounding areas as well as street and metered parking. Sorry, we do not validate.
Are all classes good for kids and/or teens?
All of our classes are recommended for students 18 years and older unless otherwise specified.
Do you offer classes for kids and teens?
We do not offer classes for kids and teens on a regular basis. However, if you have a group of 6-12 students who would like to try improv or acting, we can Build You A Class Here.
Who teaches these classes?
Our Improv Hawaii instructors are professional actors, performers and improvisers with at least 10 years of experience each.
Will I get to perform?
Yes! Our 101 Improv Basics Class students have a showcase at the end of the each session. We also host a monthly Open Improv Jam every 4th Saturday at 9pm at The Tiny Stage where ANYONE can hop on stage and play.
QUESTIONS ABOUT SHOWS
When are your improv comedy shows?
The majority of our Improv Hawaii Classes are held at The Tiny Stage in Kakaako unless specified otherwise.
The Tiny Stage address is 419 South Street #163 (watch this video for directions). Check our online calendar for details.
Are kids allowed at your shows?
Because our shows are made up right before your very eyes and ours, we recommend them for audiences 16 and over. Shows may contain adult language and/or situations. Parental discretion is advised.
How long are your Saturday shows?
A typical show will run for about 60 minutes.
I am part of an improv team. Can we perform in your shows?
Coolio! We’re always down to host special guests. Send us a note and we’ll be in touch.