Are you an improv group leader, organizer, or administrator looking to elevate your troupe's operations from behind the scenes? While the magic of improvisation thrives on spontaneity, truly great shows and sustainable groups are built on a foundation of smart planning and effective management. Mike Staffa, founder and Director of the Pirates of Tokyo Bay, brings 20 years of invaluable experience in navigating the unique challenges of managing an improv group. This 3-hour online workshop distills his extensive knowledge into practical strategies designed specifically for those who juggle schedules, coordinate teams, and foster vibrant improv communities worldwide.
This isn't a workshop for improv beginners; it's for the dedicated architects of improv who understand that a thriving stage presence requires meticulous off-stage organization. You'll delve into proven methods for balancing creative flexibility with essential structural elements, developing robust systems tailored to your group's needs, and streamlining the often-chaotic logistics of production and community building. From effective scheduling and team coordination to leveraging digital tools, you'll gain actionable insights to transform your organizational approach, allowing your performers to truly 'wing it on stage' while you confidently 'plan it on page.'
Join a global community of your peers to refine your leadership skills and ensure your improv group not only survives but truly flourishes. Participants will receive a comprehensive presentation file at the workshop's conclusion, serving as a valuable resource to implement these strategies within their own communities.
We will discuss answers to questions like:
How do I get members to be more active and engaged?
What are best practices for asking people to leave your group?
How do I decide who gets to perform (and who doesn’t) in a fair, transparent way?
How do I spread the workload so I am not doing so much while others just show up and expect to perform?
How can I automate some of the admin duties so I can spend more time performing?
What tools do you use to manage your group?
and lots more!
DETAILS:
Time: 3 hours
Location: Online (via Google Meet or Zoom)
Number of Participants: 1-3
When: after you sign up, we will discuss dates/Times that work best for us
Cost: $125 (USD) paid via PayPal, Venmo or most major credit cards
Prerequisites
Experience in Organizing Improv or Events – Participants should have some background in coordinating improv shows, theater events, or community performances.
Familiarity with Scheduling & Team Coordination – Prior experience managing a team, booking performers, or handling event logistics will help apply the strategies effectively.
Basic Digital Literacy – Since tools like Google Sheets, Photoshop or other planning software may be discussed, a basic understanding of spreadsheets and design tools is helpful.
Active Role in an Improv or Event-Based Community – Ideal for those currently leading or helping to manage an improv troupe, comedy group, or arts organization.
Example slides
Quotes from past participants
“Thank you again for the wonderful workshop, 3 hours flew by fast! This was admittedly the workshop I was looking forward to the most and found it very valuable!”
“I found it especially fun to have prompted sharing exercises with other participants to share growing pains and insights, and it was also helpful to understand the reasons and pros/cons behind the systems put in place in the Pirates.”
“Overall, great workshop! Appreciated your candor in sharing your experience as it gave a lot of depth and context to how this system fits into real life.”
4.9 out of 5
Satisfaction rating from past participants
