Get out of the classroom and onto the stage
Shake off the winter blues with classes in NYC-style improv and sketch comedy.
Following the success of Documentary Live!, we’re offering more genre classes for performers who want to improvise romantic comedies or stories about Boy Wizards.
We’re also registering the first Thunderbolt Comedy sketch class in the Bay Area. Learn how to turn your funny ideas into dynamic, effective scripted comedy.
And great news: All classes and class gift cards are on sale until Christmas Day 2019!
Thunderbolt Comedy provides a complete advanced education in improv comedy, focusing on the game-of-the-scene-style developed in New York City.
Classes turn students into performers and instill skills and confidence that will translate to the rest of life. Onstage, become a quick-witted, decisive, verbally agile comedic performer. Offstage, discover new abilities in reading a room, carrying a conversation, and simply being you.
“A fun, safe and productive environment! Strongly recommend!”
Lauren Brickman, star of Stuffed on Broadway
Improv Classes Now Registering:
Sketch Classes Registering Now
Gift Cards Available
About the Improv Curriculum
The Core Curriculum:
Students may take these classes in any order, with the exception of the capstone course. Each course is centered on building skills for the creation of a show designed to draw audiences.
Scenework
Scenework - Students learn the simplest, most effective ways to create comedic scenework on the fly. This class focuses on combining a NYC comedic approach to the game of the scene and a theatrical Chicago approach to character. Students will perform a themed montage.
Longform Structures
These shows will then become part of the Thunderbolt Comedy line-up.
The Dollhouse -This original form focuses on the comedic richness of grounded, human behavior and realistic details. Scenes all take place within one large location.
Towers - Learn how to build momentum and wield the game of the scene in this original form by facing down your fears and following the fun. Advanced Scenework recommended but not required.
Harold - This class simplifies the classic longform that was created in the Bay Area and forms the basis for shows like Seinfeld, 30 Rock, and Curb Your Enthusiasm.
Genre classes - These classes include The Documentary, The Movie, Harry Potter, RomCom, and more. Learn how to bring narrative and storytelling to your improv without neglecting comedy.
Capstone
The Invocation - Top-level students who have completed the core curriculum will be guided in recognizing and solidifying their comedic voice and learn how to create a new form on the fly from an audience suggestion.
