About this Event
Step into the exciting world of improv with our interactive workshop, "Activate Your Imagination: an Intro to Improv." This two-hour in-person experience is specially designed for individuals who are curious about exploring the thrill of improv for the first time. Get ready to embark on a low-pressure, fun-filled adventure that will unleash your creativity, boost your confidence, and ignite your sense of playfulness.
Led by our experienced and supportive instructors, this workshop is tailored to provide a safe and welcoming environment where you can comfortably step outside your comfort zone. The workshop begins with a boundary check-in, where we establish guidelines for respect, trust, and collaboration. Our skilled instructors will guide you through engaging improv warmups and games.
Through interactive exercises and guided improvisation, you'll discover the joy of working together, building on each other's ideas, and creating compelling scenes on the spot.
No prior experience in acting or improv is necessary. Whether you're seeking a fun and unique experience, a chance to improve your communication skills, or simply a break from everyday routine, "Activate Your Imagination" is the workshop for you!
About your facilitators:
Sam Van Sant (she/her) began studying improv in 2010 at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, where she earned her B.A. in Theatre (acting). She’s trained with the Baltimore Improv Group and has performed at a variety of theaters across the East Coast. She currently performs with groups including Babeprov, Sandcats, GirlTalk, and Dreamweaver. To Sam, improv is not solely about being funny – it’s about discovering what can be built together through creativity and openness. She especially loves improv that builds a story through honest characters navigating real(ish)-life challenges.
Barry Wright (he/him) is a improviser, teacher, and technology professional. He is a co-founder of Highwire Improv and currently serves as President of the Board. He has trained in improv since 2017, including at Baltimore Improv Group, Hoopla Impro, and numerous online workshops. He performs with groups including Improv Jeoparty, Topiary, Important Screws, Whatever This Is, and Dreamweaver. Barry lives with his wife Kristen and their three cats and is always happy to chat about improv or start a Google Doc.
About Highwire Improv:
Highwire Improv is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization based in Baltimore, Maryland. Our mission is to steward a community of artists committed to growth, collaboration, joy, and justice — in Baltimore and around the world — through improvisational theater.
This workshop is made possible by a grant from Open Space Arts!
Open Space was founded in 1989 by Beth and Alden Phelps. They are committed to the philosophy that art is for everyone, and hope that their diverse offerings of classes, shows, events, and workshops promote just that. It is their hope to strengthen the community through the arts.
Open Space Arts wound down operations in 2026 and granted several local organizations their remaining funds, including Highwire Improv. We are using this grant to bring free intro-to-improv workshops to Baltimore County throughout 2026 and 2027. Read more at: https://www.osarts.org/
Event venue & nearby stays
Baltimore County Public Library - Catonsville Branch, 1100 Frederick Road, Catonsville, United States
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