Can I learn acting from improv classes? Where's the best place in LA to find

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Question:

I want to learn acting, I've been told a great way is to join an improvisational class/group!. Please give me your opinions on whether or not this is a viable means for learning acting, the cost I might expect to pay, where in LA and who I might contact to get started!. Is starting at age 40+ a problem!?Www@QuestionHome@Com

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

You can learn acting through improvisation, but you should also consider taking some traditional acting classes!. Take it from me --- I'm a high school drama teacher who also runs a small improv theatre!. Some of my best players are my former students because of their experience in improv and the "legitimate" theatre!. The same is true for some of my other players --- the ones who command the stage and have incredible stage presence are the ones who've studied acting!. Improv's a great way, though, to begin and will help you gain confidence and presence on the stage!. Some have said that good improvisors are good actors, but not all actors are good improvisors and I think there's some truth to that!.

In LA, as far as I know, the premiere improv groups include the Groundlings and IOWest!. Check the web for local improv troupes --- most will have websites that list show times, class opportunities, and the like!. Once you find one that might suit your needs, go to watch a show!. Watch how every player (including the host) interacts with the audience and the other players!. If the players aren't trying to make each other look good, if they're deliberately trying to upstage one another, if the players can't improvise a good scene, or if the players don't have good stage skills or presence, I'd stay away from any classes that group might offer!. On the other hand, if your instincts tell you that the group you visit has something to offer, then check into classes!.

Classes vary across the country from $5!.00 per class (with no required minimum number of classes that a student must attend) to over $500!.00 for a six or seven week course!. It depends on the size of the improv troupe, their location, the number of courses offered, and the class size limits (if any) imposed by the troupe!.

If you want to know more about good and bad improv, check out Adam Felber's article "Why Improv Sucks"!. You can easily find it online!. There are also some good acting and improv books by Viola Spolin, Charna Halpern, Keith Johnstone, and Andy Goldberg!.

Break a leg!Www@QuestionHome@Com