Our classes and workshops encourage exploration, experimentation, and growth.
We move past outdated methods to develop work that feels connected, personal, and fun.
Led by Chris Alvarado, these classes reflect years of work on stage and in the classroom.
Classes
This two-day workshop focuses on the most important skill in improv: listening. We’ll slow down, hear what’s actually being said, and build scenes one line at a time.
Dates: Sat and Sun, Sept 27 & 28
Time: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM (Pacific Time)
Location: Santa Monica Playhouse
Limited Class Size
Cost: $130
This 8-week course is designed for anyone looking to deepen their improv practice in a supportive, challenging, and fun environment. We’ll focus on two-person scene work, strong listening skills, and making bold choices in the moment. By the end, you’ll have sharper instincts, stronger stage presence, and a toolkit you can carry into both performance and everyday life.
Dates: Thursdays- Oct 2 - Nov 20
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Pacific Time)
Location: Santa Monica Playhouse
Limited Class Size
Cost: $499
No prior improv experience is required, just a willingness to show up, take risks, and grow.
Testimonials
Jaymie P.
Chris is the only coach with whom I've worked who genuinely cares about the success of the ensemble. He's professional and exudes a contagious passion for the work. My favorite thing about working with Chris is his openness to the group's artistic vision and the fact that rehearsals always feel like a creative collaboration.
Josey O.
“What makes Chris special is his openness to experimentation and his skill at finding real depth in scene work. As a performer, I feel comfortable trying out something new on stage when Chris is coaching.”
Garrett R.
Chris's approach helped me develop the improv superpowers that are specific to me, and his workshops provide a space to try new things, make weird choices, and find creative ways to avoid the pitfalls of bad scenes. His passion "in the lab" is contagious, his feedback is constructive, and most importantly, you'll leave each workshop a better improviser than you went in.
Cat C.
I’ve done multiple classes with Chris and have LOVED them all. Chris is always supportive and makes me feel like a rockstar. The improv skills I’ve learned have helped my confidence as well as my writing and creativity.
Marcus R.
I was blown away by Chris' passion and encouragement. Not only does he have a wealth of knowledge and experience, but he made sure that every student felt comfortable and confident on stage. He created a fun and supportive environment where everyone could let loose and have a great time.
Stephanie S.
Chris Alvarado is hands-down the best improv teacher I’ve had the pleasure to work with. He is refreshingly “real” and gives it to you straight, not common among many teachers. The result is more fun, deeper play, and a lot more satisfaction. He reminds you what is possible with this incredible work and he encourages you to fully immerse yourself in it - slowly, “taking care of yourself first,” to experience the truest rewards of the form - the joy of surrendering the need to “perform” and discovering what happens in this moment together.
