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The New York Comedy Festival gave fans the opportunity to hone their comedic skills with a famed The Second City’s improv class.
The Second City has always been known as one of the mecca’s for improv. Their minimalist approach, penchant for incorporating characterization in compelling storytelling, and welcoming aura ensures that comedy hopefuls far and wide come to grace the coveted stage. Coupled with the bevy of world famous alums that have gone through it’s ranks, The Second City remains one of the premier comedy organizations in the country, if not the world. From Stephen Colbert to Tina Fey, some of the most revered icons in comedy launched their careers from the Chicago-based barebones improv troupe.
But why should the troupe be the only one to have fun? That’s the thinking behind The Second City’s improv class as part of the New York Comedy Festival. The comedy troupe worked to move comedy and comedy lovers closer with the eccentric lesson, making for a fun-filled improv class that had everything from head pats and car noises to impromptu imaginary gifts and talking alien heads. Taught by a 20-year veteran of The Second City, the improv class–taught at the infamous Caroline’s on Broadway–was an eye-opening experience that was primarily suited for beginners. While some stage-ready individuals might find the icebreaking activities a bit simplistic, make no mistake–this improv teacher will make even the most uptight participant open-up and dive into their more imaginative side. It’s also important to note that while this was indeed a beginner’s class, the teacher mentioned that there were indeed a wide variety of lessons available for more experienced improv fans.
It was a wondrous experience, illuminating the inherent interpersonality that so many of us seem to innately possess. Beyond the classroom, it seemed as though friendships were beginning to flourish in the haze of boozy refreshments and raucous laughter. Certainly a much-appreciated inclusion to the New York Comedy Festival, The Second City will be hosting numerous workshops during the New York Comedy Festival, including stand-up comedy, character generation and so much more.
The New York Comedy Festival will be running between November 7 and 12. Please visit their website for more information regarding shows, workshops, merchandise and more.
