Hi! We are Vancouver’s home for improv and sketch comedy classes led by world-class comedians from many award-winning Canadian groups, including Hip.Bang! and The Sunday Service.
We are committed to delivering outstanding comedy training and making comedy as accessible as possible to folks who are under represented in the Vancouver comedy community. Welcome in!
January to March comedy classes, huzzah!
Our 41st semester absolutely rocks. You’ll find one very-hyped new class (Stand Up 3, here we come!), a generous serving of our core curriculums and some outstanding electives. These classes open for registration Friday November 10 at high noon PST! Oh you want some headlines?
Our first-ever Stand Up 3!
The Untitled Advanced Sketch Group led by Tom Hill!
A very special elective from Second City’s Kirsten Rasmussen!
The return of two excellent programs we’ve run in the past: Improv for Autistic Folks with Allie Entwistle and Improv for ADHD with Kevin Vidal!
Classes in West Vancouver and Surrey! Shout out to two of our favourite areas of Greater Vancouver!
Teen classes in West Vancouver!
And so much more. So text your friend, inform your parents, lock in your schedule: it’s time for some great comedy this winter. See all the classes below and if you have any questions, you can always email classes@blindtigercomedy.ca. Happy 2024 planning, all!
IMPROV COMEDY CLASSES*
Saturdays January 13 – February 10
Sundays, January 14 – February 11
Sundays, January 21 – February 25
Tuesdays, January 23 – March 12
Thursdays, January 25 – February 22
Weekdays, February 19 – February 23
Sundays, February 4 – March 3
Tuesdays, January 23 – March 12
Mondays, January 15 – February 12
Tuesdays, January 23 – February 20
Sundays, January 28 – March 3
Weekdays, March 25 – March 29
Sundays, March 17 – April 21
Sundays, January 14 – March 3
Sundays, February 4 – March 3
Mondays, January 15 – February 12
Sundays, January 21 – February 25
Sundays, January 14 – March 3
Thursdays, January 18 – March 7
Tuesdays, January 16 – March 5
IMPROV FOR TEENS*
Intro to Improv Class for Teens
IN WEST VAN:
Weekdays, January 2 – January 5
Tuesdays, January 23 – March 12
Weekdays, March 18 – March 22
IMPROV FOR AUTISTIC FOLKS*
Thursdays, February 15 – March 7
STAND UP COMEDY CLASSES*
Mondays, January 15 – March 11
Tuesdays, January 23 – February 20
Sundays, January 21 – February 25
Mondays, January 15 – March 11
SKETCH COMEDY CLASSES*
Tuesdays, January 23 – March 12
Tuesdays, February 6 – March 26
ELECTIVES & BLOC TEAMS*
Improv for ADHD with Kevin Vidal – Sundays, January 14 – 28
Untitled Advanced Sketch Group with Tom Hill – Mondays, February 5 – April 15
Real Good Listening with Kirsten Rasmussen – Saturday, February 17
Free Classes – Check out our free monthly improv and sketch classes!
Bloc Teams – we strongly encourage all students to consider forming their own team and working directly with a coach! Click the link to find out more.
*Three more things!
Scholarships are available for every class and level!
Refunds & Cancellations – a 100% refund is available up to two weeks before your class begins. Within two weeks of the class start, registration is non-refundable and non-transferrable.
Gift Cards – give the gift of comedy anytime, anywhere, any class!
About Our Classes
At Blind Tiger Comedy, you’ll learn how to create scenes and shows that audiences love. You’ll study and perform with members of Canadian Comedy Award nominees and winners The Sunday Service and Hip.Bang! as well as the rest of our stacked faculty, and find your voice in one or all of our long form, sketch, or stand up streams.
Our classes prioritize performance opportunities, and senior students may be invited to participate in one of our house teams. While each teacher brings a unique voice and approach to a class’ particular content, the core curriculum of each class will be consistent.
Want to take a class but can’t make the time listed? Join our mailing list at the bottom of this page and you’ll be updated every time we announce new classes. If you have questions, we reply within 48 hours on weekdays. Just email classes@blindtigercomedy.ca.
Please note the deadline for registration for our weekend classes is on the Friday, before the class begins, at 4:00pm.
Repeats Policy
At Blind Tiger, we’re big on making you get the key learning objectives of each level under your fingers before you move on to more challenging levels that may be frustrating if you get to them before you’re comfortable with earlier levels. Each course has explicit goals that our teachers lay out on the first day, and regular feedback including one on one feedback on or shortly after the last day of class. If a student has not consistently demonstrated the skills of that course in the subjective determination of that teacher, a student may be asked to repeat that course.
Here’s the good news: if you are asked to repeat a class, that class is 50% off. We offer this discount to emphasize something very important to us: we want you to learn! Moving too quickly makes for a frustrated, unhappy improvisor which in turn makes it tough to learn and have fun. Also note – repeats are common and students can reasonably expect to be asked to repeat at least one course if not several as they move through our training from Intro through Long Form. Since implementing this policy several years ago, we have noticed a dramatic improvement in the quality of our students in all of the Intro, Long Form and Sketch streams, so trust us: this policy is truly in your best interest.
Attendance Policy
All students are expected to attend their class times. If students miss classes for any reason, that impedes their learning and teachers may ask a student to repeat a class if they miss more than two classes out of an eight-week course, or more than one class of a five-week intensive. Students asked to repeat on the basis of attendance are not eligible for 50% off when they retake that level. Again, this policy is here to help everyone learn, and to build the best class environments possible!
Refunds / Cancellation Policy
All classes are subject to our two week refunds/cancellation policy. Refunds are available in full until two weeks before class starts, at which time they are non-refundable. This is to make it possible for us to support our teachers and venues and cover the respective cancellation costs passed on to us by the (wonderful!) venues we work with.
Jump to:
Intro Series
Long Form Improv
Sketch Comedy
Bloc Teams
Drop-Ins, Electives & Free Classes
Intro to Improv Series
INTRO 1 – Welcome to Improv
5-8 weeks. One show. $395.
“With improv, it’s a combination of listening and not trying to be funny. “- KRISTEN WIIG
In this course you’ll be guided confidently into the incredible world of improv. You’ll learn what makes it fun to do and fun to watch. You’ll learn how to be funny without trying to be funny. You’ll build the skills to have fun doing improv scenes, even if that feels scary to read. Your teacher will be a professional, working comedian who is also a seasoned, hilarious teacher.
Heck, you’re going to have a great time. By the time you’re finished with Intro 1, your final showcase will be a breezy walk in a wild fun park.
You will move onto Intro 2 confident making offers, supporting your scene partner, and having fun on stage.
FIVE WEEKS
Saturdays, 1:15 – 4:45pm PST
January 13 – February 10
Location: China Cloud Studios
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Intro 1 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Taz VanRassel
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
FIVE WEEKS
Sundays, 6:00 – 9:30pm PST
January 14 – February 11
Location: Carousel Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Intro 1 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Kerri Donaldson
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
FIVE WEEKS
Sundays, 2:45 – 6:15pm PST
January 21 – February 25*
*No class on February 18
Location: China Cloud Studios
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Intro 1 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Devin Mackenzie
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
FIVE WEEKS
Thursdays, 6:00 – 9:30pm PST
January 25 – February 22
Location: Carousel Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Intro 1 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Ese Atawo
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
ONE WEEK
Monday to Friday, 1:00 – 4:30pm PST
February 19 – February 23
Location: China Cloud Studios
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Intro 1 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Allie Entwistle
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
INTRO 1 – in Richmond!
5 Weeks. One show. $395.
“With improv, it’s a combination of listening and not trying to be funny. “- KRISTEN WIIG
We are excited to announce we will be launching a new Intro 1 class in Richmond on Monday nights in January and February! Hosted at the glorious Ukranian Community Society of Ivan Franko (aka a lovely community hall!) this class will be led by Artistic Director Tom Hill and will feature the Intro 1 introduction to improv curriculum that has been tried and tested in Vancouver classes for years.
In this course you’ll be guided confidently into the incredible world of improv. You’ll learn what makes it fun to do and fun to watch. You’ll learn how to be funny without trying to be funny. You’ll build the skills to have fun doing improv scenes, even if that feels scary to read. Your teacher will be a professional, working comedian who is also a seasoned, hilarious teacher.
Heck, you’re going to have a great time. By the time you’re finished with Intro 1, your final showcase will be a breezy walk in a wild fun park.
You will move onto Intro 2 confident making offers, supporting your scene partner, and having fun on stage.
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
INTRO 1 – in Surrey!
5 Weeks. One show. $395.
“With improv, it’s a combination of listening and not trying to be funny. “- KRISTEN WIIG
We are super excited for the return of our Intro 1 class in Surrey on Sunday nights in January and February! Hosted at the glorious Inspire Arts Academy (aka a very cool arts studio!) this class will be led by the one and only Syd Campbell and will feature the Intro 1 introduction to improv curriculum that has been tried and tested in Vancouver classes for years.
In this course you’ll be guided confidently into the incredible world of improv. You’ll learn what makes it fun to do and fun to watch. You’ll learn how to be funny without trying to be funny. You’ll build the skills to have fun doing improv scenes, even if that feels scary to read. Your teacher will be a professional, working comedian who is also a seasoned, hilarious teacher.
Heck, you’re going to have a great time. By the time you’re finished with Intro 1, your final showcase will be a breezy walk in a wild fun park.
You will move onto Intro 2 confident making offers, supporting your scene partner, and having fun on stage.
FIVE WEEKS
Sundays, 6:00 – 9:30pm PST
February 4 – March 3
Location: Inspire Arts Academy
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Intro 1 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Syd Campbell
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
INTRO 1 – in West Vancouver!
8 Weeks. One show. $400.
“With improv, it’s a combination of listening and not trying to be funny. “- KRISTEN WIIG
We are excited to announce we will be launching a new Intro 1 class in West Vancouver on Tuesday nights this fall through an exciting new collaboration between The District of West Vancouver and Blind Tiger Comedy (BTC)! Hosted at the glorious Ambleside Park – Music Box this class will be led by the one and only Syd Campbell and will feature the Intro 1 introduction to improv curriculum that has been tried and tested in Vancouver classes for years.
In this course you’ll be guided confidently into the incredible world of improv. You’ll learn what makes it fun to do and fun to watch. You’ll learn how to be funny without trying to be funny. You’ll build the skills to have fun doing improv scenes, even if that feels scary to read. Your teacher will be a professional, working comedian who is also a seasoned, hilarious teacher.
Heck, you’re going to have a great time. By the time you’re finished with Intro 1, your final showcase will be a breezy walk in a wild fun park.
You will move onto Intro 2 confident making offers, supporting your scene partner, and having fun on stage.
EIGHT WEEKS
Tuesdays, 6:30 – 9:00pm PST
January 23 – March 12
Location: The Music Box – Ambleside Park. Show at China Cloud Studios.
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Intro 1 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Syd Campbell
register nowThis class will open for registration on December 6 through the District of West Vancouver website.
INTRO 1 – Welcome to Improv (in Cantonese!)
表演 1 – 欢迎参加即兴表演（粤语版！）
5 Weeks. One show. $395.
5周。一场演出。395元。
In this course you’ll be guided confidently into the incredible world of improv. You’ll learn what makes it fun to do and fun to watch. You’ll learn how to be funny without trying to be funny. You’ll build the skills to have fun doing improv scenes, even if that feels scary to read. You will have not one but two teachers who are professional, working improvisers and the class will be conducted in Cantonese!
在这门课程中，您将自信地进入令人难以置信的即兴表演世界。
Heck, you’re going to have a great time. By the time you’re finished with Intro 1, your final showcase will be a breezy walk in a wild fun park. You will move onto Intro 2 confident making offers, supporting your scene partner, and having fun on stage.
您将会度过愉快的时光。完成基本科1 之后，您的最终展示将变得轻松自如，
Your showcase will be in Cantonese, with English subtitles behind you. During the rest of the show, there will be Cantonese subtitles for folks that might want them. So cool!
您的展示将以粤语进行，背后有英文字幕。在演出的其余时间，
This course is being offered for the first time in fall 2023 so we are expecting to learn a lot as we go! For now, the administration of this course will be handled in English however we will seek to offer Cantonese support to folks who are not comfortable with written English. Once you get to the class, you’ll be fine with Cantonese only! Translation in Cantonese for the website and eventbrite are also coming soon!
这门课程将于2023年秋季首次开设，
As always with new programming, we welcome feedback, comments and suggestions from the community. Thanks in advance!
像往常一样，我们欢迎社区提供反馈意见和建议。提前感谢！
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
INTRO 2 – Let’s Make This Interesting
5-8 weeks. Two shows. $395.
“I think for anyone in improv, the biggest thing to get over is the fear. I think every improviser has that.” RACHEL DRATCH
In this course you will explore the keys to making an improv show and improv scene compelling to watch. You will learn how to create dynamic characters, leverage your character’s status, and play with sincerity. You’ll learn the importance of variety and commitment in your offers, and the value of letting a scene breath. No better way to practice being dynamic than in front of an audience with two performances!
You will move onto Intro 3 with the ability to create with your scene partner a full, quality scene, and an ability to commit wholeheartedly to your character.
Pre-requisite: Intro 1
FIVE WEEKS
Mondays, 6:00 – 9:30pm PST
January 15 – February 12
Location: Carousel Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has two shows, wow! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Intro 2’s have one show on a Wednesday night at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Allie Entwistle
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
FIVE WEEKS
Tuesdays, 6:15 – 9:45pm PST
January 23 – February 20
Location: Carousel Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has two shows, wow! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Intro 2’s have one show on a Wednesday night at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Devin Mackenzie
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
FIVE WEEKS
Sundays, 6:00 – 9:30pm PST
January 28 – March 3*
*No class on February 18
Location: Carousel Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has two shows, wow! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Intro 2’s have one show on a Wednesday night at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Ese Atawo
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
ONE WEEK
Monday to Friday, 1:00 – 4:30pm PST
March 25 – March 29
Location: China Cloud Studios
Show:
This class has two shows, wow! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Intro 2’s have one show on a Wednesday night at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Allie Entwistle
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
INTRO 2 – in Richmond!
5 Weeks. One show. $395.
“I think for anyone in improv, the biggest thing to get over is the fear. I think every improviser has that.” RACHEL DRATCH
In this course you will explore the keys to making an improv show and improv scene compelling to watch. You will learn how to create dynamic characters, leverage your character’s status, and play with sincerity. You’ll learn the importance of variety and commitment in your offers, and the value of letting a scene breath. No better way to practice being dynamic than in front of an audience with two performances!
You will move onto Intro 3 with the ability to create with your scene partner a full, quality scene, and an ability to commit wholeheartedly to your character.
Pre-requisite: Intro 1
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
INTRO 2 – in Surrey!
5 Weeks. One show. $395.
“I think for anyone in improv, the biggest thing to get over is the fear. I think every improviser has that.” RACHEL DRATCH
In this course you will explore the keys to making an improv show and improv scene compelling to watch. You will learn how to create dynamic characters, leverage your character’s status, and play with sincerity. You’ll learn the importance of variety and commitment in your offers, and the value of letting a scene breath. No better way to practice being dynamic than in front of an audience with two performances!
You will move onto Intro 3 with the ability to create with your scene partner a full, quality scene, and an ability to commit wholeheartedly to your character.
Pre-requisite: Intro 1
FIVE WEEKS
Sundays, 6:00 – 9:30pm PST
March 17 – April 21*
*No class on March 31
Location: Inspire Arts Academy
Show:
This class has two shows, wow! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Intro 2’s have one show on a Wednesday night at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Syd Campbell
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
ADVANCED SCENES 1 – Don’t Let the Game Play You
Five or eight weeks. Two shows. $395.
“Fail. Then figure out what to do on the way down.” – DEL CLOSE
This course pushes your improv into the higher levels of scene work. You will become more comfortable with characters outside yourself, filled with hilarious details and emotion, and begin to work on the wild and delicious world of game. You will learn to host your own shows, tackle all kinds of scenes, and become more confident playing with more improvisors at the same time. In short, this course loads the tool belt and begins to help you wield those tools in a way that will make you feel like you’re good with tools.
Pre-requisite: Intro 2
EIGHT WEEKS
Sundays, 11:00am – 1:30pm PST
January 14 – March 3
Location: Green Thumb Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has two shows, wow! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Intro 2’s have one show on a Wednesday night at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Syd Campbell
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
FIVE WEEKS
Sundays, 6:00 – 9:30pm PST
February 4 – March 3
Location: Green Thumb Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has two shows, wow! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Intro 2’s have one show on a Wednesday night at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Amy Shostak
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
ADVANCED SCENES 1 in Richmond!
Five or eight weeks. Two shows. $395.
“Fail. Then figure out what to do on the way down.” – DEL CLOSE
This course pushes your improv into the higher levels of scene work. You will become more comfortable with characters outside yourself, filled with hilarious details and emotion, and begin to work on the wild and delicious world of game. You will learn to host your own shows, tackle all kinds of scenes, and become more confident playing with more improvisors at the same time. In short, this course loads the tool belt and begins to help you wield those tools in a way that will make you feel like you’re good with tools.
Pre-requisite: Intro 2
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Advanced Scenes 2 – The Scene
Five or eight weeks. Two shows. $395.
“There’s something really freeing about improv: it’s collective, creative, in-the-moment. ” – TATIANA MASLANY
This course seeks to solidify you as a well-rounded, knowledgeable performer, focusing particularly on your group game and group scene skills. You will become comfortable with any suggestion, character choice, or scene style, and can adapt on the fly to the needs of a particular scene. This class also features a significant diagnostic element, where your instructor will identify the areas of scene work you need to improve and help you get there. The focus of this class is you and suiting you up with the the skills and techniques that will best prepare you for the areas of comedy that excite you the most.
You will move onto the advanced streams with the ability to be successful in any scene or show you commit to.
Pre-requisite: Advanced Scenes 1/ Intro 3
FIVE WEEKS
Mondays, 6:00 – 9:30pm PST
January 15 – February 12
Location: Carousel Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has two shows, wow! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Intro 2’s have one show on a Wednesday night at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Tess Degenstein
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
FIVE WEEKS
Sundays, 6:00 – 9:30pm PST
January 21 – February 25*
*No class on February 18
Location: Carousel Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has two shows, wow! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Intro 2’s have one show on a Wednesday night at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Tess Degenstein
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
LONG FORM 1 – The Basic Harold
Five to Eight weeks. Three shows. $395.
“A Harold is like building a 747 mid-flight.” – DEL CLOSE
In this class you will study the basic concepts and techniques that make exceptional long form improvisation possible. You will hone the techniques of scene starts, edits, beats, narration, and monologues, while putting them into practice in the service of variety, pacing, and game. The class will study the Structured Harold, and focus on individual performers finding their voice within the ensemble.
You will move onto Long Form 2 with a working grasp of Harold and the basic techniques and concepts of long form improvisation.
Pre-requisite: Advanced Scenes 2
EIGHT WEEKS
Sundays, 2:00 – 4:30pm PST
January 14 – March 3
Location: Green Thumb Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has three shows!? While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Long form classes have two shows on Wednesday nights at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Syd Campbell
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
LONG FORM 2 – Harold and his many friends
Eight weeks. Three shows. $395.
“When one has no form, one can be all forms; when one has no style, he can fit in with any style.” – BRUCE F’ING LEE
In this class, you will push your long form skills into performance-ready formats. While continuing to work on advanced scene work and your confidence within a large ensemble, you will explore some of the most exciting long forms out there: Tap Out, Cut To and the Armando.
You will move onto Long Form 3 with a confident understanding of the forms listed above and a demonstrated comfort working within an ensemble.
Pre-requisite: Long Form 1
EIGHT WEEKS
Thursdays, 7:00 – 9:30pm PST
January 18 – March 7
Location: Carousel Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has three shows!? While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Long form classes have two shows on Wednesday nights at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Allie Entwistle
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
LONG FORM 3 – The Organic Harold
Eight weeks. Three shows. $395.
“Each of us is full of shit in our own special way. We are all shitty little snowflakes dancing in the universe.” – LEWIS BLACK
In this class, you will tear into the advanced techniques of long forms: transformations, advanced edits, and meta games. Hone your ability to commit to structures, games, and patterns that emerge from the suggestion and the scene work, without any preconceived plan. Follow one of Blind Tigers major beliefs that stories can be told in many different ways.
You will move onto Long Form 4 with a demonstrated mastery of long form techniques and a working confidence with the organic Harold.
Pre-requisite: Long Form 2
EIGHT WEEKS
Tuesdays, 6:30 – 9:00pm PST
January 16 – March 5
Location: Green Thumb Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has three shows!? While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class starts, typical Long form classes have two shows on Wednesday nights at the midpoint of their classes and another on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Taz VanRassel
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
LONG FORM 4 – Mono Scene
8 weeks. 3 shows. $395.
“The only safe thing, is to take a chance.” -ELAINE MAY
The mono scene is one of the coolest, simplest, and most difficult long forms: one scene that lasts 15, 20, even 60 minutes. In this class you will explore the skills needed to get the best out of this format – patience, detail, strong committed characters and a willingness to continue developing new ideas late in a scene. You will work on connecting closely as an ensemble, and will be directed to challenge yourself as an improvisor in this our last class of the improv program.
Pre-requisite: Long Form 3
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Improv for Autistic Folks
We are thrilled to offer improv classes for autistic folks! We have been collaborating and training with the wonderful people at Canucks Autism Network are very excited to offer equivalents to our Intro 1 class for autistic teens and adults respectively starting fall 2022!
This is a pilot program we hope to continue with Intro 2 and higher levels in the semesters to come. We welcome feedback on this and all our programming via classes@blindtigercomedy.ca!
Improv for Autistic Folks with Allie Entwistle
Four Weeks. 8 Hours. One Show. $160.
This class will focus on exploring the joy of improv with games and exercises that focus on fun, collaboration and comedy.
Each week, your teacher will pick a different topic to focus on from the world of improv and lead you through a very fun session that is appropriate for folks who have no improv training AND those who have tried it before.
This intro to improv class is designed for Autistic folks who are 16 years or older. It is best suited to participants who like to learn and engage in a group setting and who can remain on task with limited support. Participants must be able to use the bathroom independently. This class is offered as part of an exciting partnership between Blind Tiger Comedy and Canucks Autism Network (CAN), and CAN support workers will be on hand for each class.
A note on registering for this class! We know getting signed up for a program like this can be tricky, so here’s what we suggest:
- Send us an email at classes@blindtigercomedy.ca to let us know you’re interested.
- We will email you a link to pay for the class, and some forms to fill out.
- It may be good to have a caregiver support this process.
We are still learning about how best to support folks signing up for classes with us, so we’d be happy to hear about your particular needs when doing registration or in the class itself. Thanks for taking the time to consider joining us!
Pre-requisite: none!
A note about the cost of this class! While the majority of spots in this class are paid, we have made extra scholarship spots available in this class. Please let us know if finances are a barrier to your participation or consider filling out our simple scholarship form.
FOUR WEEKS
Thursdays, 4:00 – 6:00pm PST
February 15 – March 7
Location: Carousel Theatre Studios
Show:
March 13th, 6pm
Instructor: Allie Entwistle
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
INTRO TO IMPROV FOR AUTISTIC ADULTS
Eight weeks. One show. $395.
“With improv, it’s a combination of listening and not trying to be funny. “- KRISTEN WIIG
In this course you will learn the basics skills you need to create improvised comedy. You will learn how to start a scene and the importance of listening to your scene partners. You’ll also get practice playing characters and having fun in the made up worlds they exist in. You’ll also have a great, great time.
After eight weeks of class time, you and your classmates will perform at a Blind Tiger Comedy show! This may sound scary now, but trust us by the time you get there you’ll be ready to rock!
This intro to improv class is designed for Autistic adults. It is best suited to participants who like to learn and engage in a group setting and who can remain on task with limited support. Participants must be able to use the bathroom independently. This class is offered as part of an exciting partnership between Blind Tiger Comedy and Canucks Autism Network (CAN), and CAN support workers will be on hand for each class.
A note on registering for this class! We know getting signed up for a program like this can be tricky, so here’s what we suggest:
- Send us an email at classes@blindtigercomedy.ca to let us know you’re interested.
- We will email you a link to pay for the class, and some forms to fill out.
- It may be good to have a caregiver support this process.
We are still learning about how best to support folks signing up for classes with us, so we’d be happy to hear about your particular needs when doing registration or in the class itself. Thanks for taking the time to consider joining us!
Pre-requisite: none!
A note about the cost of this class! While the majority of spots in this class are paid, we have made extra scholarship spots available in this class. Please let us know if finances are a barrier to your participation or consider filling out our simple scholarship form.
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
INTRO TO IMPROV FOR AUTISTIC TEENS
Seven weeks. One show. $345.
“With improv, it’s a combination of listening and not trying to be funny. “- KRISTEN WIIG
In this course you will learn the basics skills you need to create improvised comedy. You will learn how to start a scene and the importance of listening to your scene partners. You’ll also get practice playing characters and having fun in the made up worlds they exist in. You’ll also have a great, great time.
After seven weeks of class time, you and your classmates will perform at a Blind Tiger Comedy show! This may sound scary now, but trust us by the time you get there you’ll be ready to rock!
This intro to improv class is designed for Autistic teens ages 13-18. It is best suited to participants who like to learn and engage in a group setting and who can remain on task with limited support. Participants must be able to use the bathroom independently. This class is offered as part of an exciting partnership between Blind Tiger Comedy and Canucks Autism Network (CAN), and CAN support workers will be on hand for each class.
A note on registering for this class! We know getting signed up for a program like this can be tricky, so here’s what we suggest:
- Send us an email at classes@blindtigercomedy.ca to let us know you’re interested.
- We will email you a link to pay for the class, and some forms to fill out.
- It may be good to have a caregiver support this process.
We are still learning about how best to support folks signing up for classes with us, so we’d be happy to hear about your particular needs when doing registration or in the class itself. Thanks for taking the time to consider joining us!
Pre-requisite: none!
A note about the cost of this class! While the majority of spots in this class are paid, we have made extra scholarship spots available in this class. Please let us know if finances are a barrier to your participation or consider filling out our simple scholarship form.
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Improv for Teens
Our teen program is back! We welcome feedback on this and all our programming via classes@blindtigercomedy.ca!
A VERY GOOD IMPROV CLASS FOR TEENS (in West Van)
One week or Eight Weeks. Five classes or Eight Classes. $400.
“With improv, it’s a combination of listening and not trying to be funny. “- KRISTEN WIIG
ONE WEEK – WINTER BREAK CAMP
Tuesday to Friday, 1:00 – 4:30pm PST
January 2 – January 5
Location: The Music Box – Ambleside Park
Show:
Friday January 5, 5pm at the Music Box
Instructor: Syd Campbell
register nowThis class will open for registration on November 13 through the District of West Vancouver!
EIGHT WEEKS
Tuesdays, 4:00 – 6:00pm PST
January 23 – March 12
Location: The Music Box – Ambleside Park
Show:
March 12, 5pm at the Music Box
Instructor: Syd Campbell
register nowThis class will open for registration on December 6 through the District of West Vancouver!
ONE WEEK – SPRING BREAK CAMP
Monday to Friday, 1:00 – 4:00pm PST
March 18 – March 22
Location: The Music Box – Ambleside Park
Show:
Friday March 22, 3:30pm at the Music Box
Instructor: Syd Campbell
register nowThis class will open for registration on December 6 through the District of West Vancouver!
A VERY GOOD IMPROV CLASS FOR TEENS (in Kerrisdale)
Seven weeks. One show. Member $325 / Non-Member $395
“With improv, it’s a combination of listening and not trying to be funny. “- KRISTEN WIIG
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Sketch Comedy
We are extremely proud of sketch comedy curriculums, which were developed by Blind Tiger Comedy founders Devin Mackenzie, Caitlin Howden and Tom Hill. Each class focuses on a distinct set of skills that support your development as a comedy writer, and all centre on the notion of honing your ability to identify, refine and celebrate what you personally find funny.
SKETCH 1 – The Seed
Eight weeks. One show. $395.
“Tragedy is when I cut my finger. Comedy is when you fall into an open sewer and die”- MEL BROOKS
This course focuses on developing both your voice as a sketch comedian and good writing habits. By examining existing sketches from the past and present, you will be introduced to a well of resources. You will learn the importance of positive brainstorming, discovering premise ideas from everyday life, and the value of a structured development process from page to stage. Note that Blind Tiger sketch classes, like sketch comedy itself, are homework intensive: there will be work assigned outside class time every week.
You will move onto Sketch 2 with the ability to lay the groundwork of a sketch, and a strong understanding of the relationship between the page and stage.
Pre-requisite: Intro 2 or equivalent experience. We know some folks will be joining us from outside of Blind Tiger or Vancouver for this class, so think of this pre-req as “moderate writing or comedy performance experience.” Email classes@blindtigercomedy.ca to tell us more, and try us!
EIGHT WEEKS
Tuesdays, 7:00 – 9:30pm PST
January 23 – March 12
Location: Carousel Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Sketch 1 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Kerri Donaldson
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
Sketch 2 – Full Metal Sketch
Eight weeks. One show. $395.
“Some people have a way with words, and other people…oh, uh, not have way.” -STEVE MARTIN
This class is focused on your ability to turn a good idea into a great sketch, and begins to develop techniques for presenting a cohesive sketch set. Develop the ability to find the best characters for a given premise, and to highlight distinct voices within your scripts. Become skilled at producing material and not be afraid of the blank page.
Blind Tiger sketch classes, like sketch comedy itself, are homework intensive: in Sketch 2 you will be expected to write a sketch a week. This in turn will help you develop your portfolio and give you a greater understanding of what your unique style and voice is.
You will move onto Sketch 3 with a strong portfolio, an ability to write a wide variety of characters and types of sketches, and an understanding of more advanced ways to combine and interweave sketches within a single set.
Pre-requisite: Sketch 1
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Sketch 3 – Versatility
Eight weeks. One show. $395.
“Gags die. Humour doesn’t” – JACK BENNY
This course will expand your range as a sketch writer. You and your classmates will study and try a wide range of sketch types including audience manipulation, solo, and patience sketches. Every week you will immerse yourself in a different style, and come out wiser, funnier, and more versatile.
Blind Tiger sketch classes, like sketch comedy itself, are homework intensive: in Sketch 3 you will be writing extensively in each week, only some of which will be presented in class shows.
Pre-requisite: Sketch 2
EIGHT WEEKS
Tuesdays, 7:00 – 9:30pm PST
February 6 – March 26
Location: Green Thumb Theatre Studios
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Sketch 3 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Allie Entwistle
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
Sketch 4 – Senior Project
Ten weeks. One big show and several trials. $470.
“You can’t just yell jokes at people.” -DAVID CROSS
In this class, you will lead the creation of a 15-25 minute live comedy project. The project is yours to define: a 15-minute solo show, a 20-person comedy play featuring everyone you’ve ever met, a short, tight sketch show on a theme, a part-video, part-dance show, or just a single epic patience sketch. You may use some, all, or none of your classmates, but the class will remain a valuable bounce board, rehearsal opportunity, and development outlet throughout.
From an early stage, you will be honing and pitching your project in class in a pitch style that will work the muscles similar to those in professional comedy development. Shows mid-semester will provide a chance to stage test the work you are developing, before final performances at the end of the semester in a special show or shows.
Previous Sketch 4 final showcases have been haunted walking tours, full-scale weddings and restaurants, calamatus one-person shows and barn-burner audience participation experiments. Sketch 4 graduates have gone on to sold out Fringe runs, Second City Touring Co, and several have become Blind Tiger faculty!
Some notes:
- As with all sketch classes, Sketch 4 students will be expected to put in substantial time in outside class time. Only polished final shows will be performed.
- Students who complete this class may be selected to be a part of a Blind Tiger Comedy sketch comedy house team.
- This class is rarely offered! If you’re on the fence, hop off and have a very cool experience!
- If you have questions about this class, don’t be a stranger! Email Artistic Director Tom Hill (tom [at] blindtigercomedy.ca), he’ll do his best to offer clarity/hype
Pre-requisite: Sketch 3
10-WEEKS
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Stand Up Comedy Classes
We are proud to offer stand up comedy classes to all levels of students. Our program approaches stand up comedy focused on what makes you laugh, while also seeking to train comedians who recognize, celebrate and respect the many voices that have been underrepresented on stand up stages for many years.
STAND UP 1 – Welcome to Stand Up
Five or eight weeks. One show. $395.
This course is an entry level class focused on learning the basics of comedy writing to help you dive confidently into the world of stand up comedy. You will learn the tools to help you crush your first stand up set, learning joke writing structures, comedy writing practices, building that stage confidence, exploring your comedic voice and learning the ins and the outs of the trade. This is the class for you, if you just want to step out of your comfort and try stand up with us!
At the end of Stand Up 1, you will be all geared up for Stand Up 2 where you will learn to develop stronger punchlines, learn how to transition into each joke, honing your comedic voice and give you the tools to help you to do a booked show.
Pre-requisite: none!
EIGHT WEEKS
Mondays, 7:30 – 10:00pm PST
January 15 – March 11*
*No class on February 19
Location: China Cloud Studios
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Stand Up 1 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Sasha Mark
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
FIVE WEEKS
Tuesdays, 6:00 – 9:30pm PST
January 23 – February 20
Location: China Cloud Studios
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Stand Up 1 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Toddy
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
STAND UP 2 – Game, Set, Match
Five or eight weeks. One show. $395.
This course is all about punching up your jokes and developing stronger comedic choices to deliver a class act stand up set. You will learn the techniques to take your comedy to the next level, working with more advanced joke writing structures/setups, the importance of body and stage movement, and developing that sweet sweet comedic voice of yours.
This class will prepare you for Stand Up 3, where you will push your writing and performance capabilities to the maximum. In this class you will explore many different aspects of writing comedy while also exploring the potential of your comedic voice.
Pre-requisite: Stand Up 1 or equivalent experience in another stand up comedy class.
FIVE WEEKS
Sundays, 11:00 – 2:30pm PST
January 21 – February 25*
*No class on February 18
Location: China Cloud Studios
Show:
This class has one show! While we can’t guarantee show schedules before your class begins, typical Stand Up 2 shows are on the Wednesday night before their final class.
Instructor: Toddy
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
STAND UP 3 – The Showcase
Eight weeks. One show. One tape (!). $425.
Stand Up 3 is a special class, with students working towards a statement showcase set that is filmed for you as part of the class. The goal of these sets will be to prepare and capture festival-calibre material that can be submitted to bookers.
You can expect to work on the next-level skills that make outstanding stand up videos pop. Short, effective openers. Call backs. Closers. The detailed rewriting and reps that it takes to get sets polished and pearly. You will also dig into the world of producing your own shows and all the skills that support that beautiful side of comedy.
Final sets will be filmed with nice sound and provided to each student. You will move on from this class with the quality video of your work that you need to make moves in the comedy scene as well as leveled up skills and learning.
Pre-requisite: Stand Up 2.
EIGHT WEEKS
Mondays, 4:30 – 7:00pm PST
January 15 – March 11*
*No class on February 19
Location: China Cloud Studios
Show:
This class has one show, and it will be March 13th, at 7pm!
Instructor: Toddy
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
Comedy Drop-Ins & Electives
Blind Tiger Comedy offers a rotating list of electives, drop-ins and other specialty classes that will enable students to focus on hyper-specific skills, and or focus on new creative philosophies.
Improv for ADHD with Kevin Vidal
Three classes. $175.
This class is a place where folks with ADHD can dive into improv with teacher and comedian Kevin Vidal (who also happens to live with ADHD). Students will learn all the joyous fundamentals of doing improv and have a great time doing it. You will explore improv exercises that foster creativity, focus and laughs while trying digging into the most fun parts of the Blind Tiger Comedy improv curriculums.
This is our first time running Improv for ADHD and so in this class you can expect some experimentation and to have some extra input in how the class is run. The class may make more space to slow things down, or reflect on what’s working for folks, and everyone will decide for themselves whether they want to do an end-of-class show.
This class is for students who identify as living with ADHD. As always, we welcome your feedback on this or any other programming before during and after this class!
Sundays, 6:00pm-9:00pm PST
January 14 – January 28
Location: Green Thumb Studios
Instructor: Kevin Vidal
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
Untitled Advanced Sketch Group
10 weeks. As many as four shows. $495.
The Untitled Advanced Sketch Project is designed to take some great sketch comedians in some cool new directions in 2024.
This group (ensemble? Force?) of eight-ish will meet weekly to riff, write and attack the edges of what’s possible in sketch comedy shows. Led by Tom Hill, who will direct and provide creation direction, this…mirth collective (?) will first seek to find a vision, then to deliver on it over at least four shows, which may or may not include:
- Four nights in a row of Really-New News shows performed each night for four nights;
- Boat Night – Just sketches about boats, no other kinds of sketches
- “Audience Portrait Night” – where audience members do portraits of each other then hang them in a “gallery” on stage which is then “roundly panned” by a posse of “comedians”
- Mini Minis – Eight 3-minute sketch shows on different themes
- [insert your ideas here]
Possible Futures
It is likely that this group could be extended for a second semester in April to June 2024 and (logistics pending) could also participate in 2024 Vancouver Fringe, supported by Blind Tiger Comedy.
That said, the initial plan is to perform at China Cloud, in the ways we think are best / most fun, and that is all that is included in this first phase of the project!
Each participant would have a chance to opt out or in after this first term though, and it’ll feel like a nice full experience on its own.
Pre-reqs/Applications:
Participants must have completed Sketch 1 or have significant other sketch experience. To register, please fill out this short application outlining why you’re interested and at least two ideas you’d have for this hypothetical goof troop by December 15.
Everyone who emails will get a reply, and at least one scholarship spot (or multiple partial scholarships) will be available for this amalgamation of human comedians. Jokers will be selected based on previous sketch experience at Blind Tiger, application, and a focus on welcoming diverse voices into this project.
Questions and/or feedback about this programming are/is very welcome via tom@blindtigercomedy.ca.
Mondays, 7:00-9:30pm PST
February 5 – April 15*
*No class on April 1
Location: Green Thumb Theatre Studios
March 18 – April 15
Location: China Cloud Studios
Instructor: Tom Hill
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
Real Good Listening with Kirsten Rasmussen
One class. Three hours. $65.
Real good listening workshop is an improv comedy workshop with one of Canada’s finest comedians and directors Kirsten Rasmussen (Second City, Schitt’s Creek, TallBoyz). In this workshop, you will explore listening with your ears, your eyes and your instincts. Pulling exercises from acting, clown and improv, this workshop will give you new tools to bring your improv game into the next level. Play with more confidence, more point of view by making your scene partner the absolute focus of your attention.
Don’t miss this rare and beautiful chance to work with Kirsten!
Saturday, 10:00am-1:00pm PST
February 17
Location: China Cloud Studios
Instructor: Kirsten Rasmussen
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday November 10 at high noon PST.
Comedy Writing Elective in Theory & Practice with Charlie Demers
Four Weeks. 10 HOURS. $195.
What makes a joke? In this class, we’ll sharpen our cross-genre comedy writing skills by exploring not only the form and content of humour composition, but also the philosophy, history, and psychology behind what makes us laugh. This course offers an overview of the craft of comedy writing, from the relationship between premise and punchline all the way to the comic dynamics of stand-up, sketch, theatre, radio, screen, and more. By helping you understand what makes comedy work, you’ll develop skills adaptable to writing for audiences of all ages, across any number of media.
All welcome, no prerequisites necessary!
Please bring writing implements to class.
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Scene Study with Caitlin Howden
Four classes. 10 hours. $195.
Scene Study is the ultimate class for improvisers looking to take the next step in their comedy. In this workshop you do scenes and get feedback. We keep it light, we keep it fun, we keep it scenes and we keep it feedback. The goal is to identify a skill, a block, and/or an opportunity for each improviser, and then to create opportunities and approaches to rep it out. Each scene study class has a theme, and this one is showing off your scene partner.
This class is open to anyone who has completed Intro 1 or higher. Playing with different levels is part of the opportunity we get in a scene study class, let’s enjoy it!
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Characters for Days with Syd Campbell
Four classes. One show. $195.
Characters are a big deal. They ignite great scenes, they kick off games, and above all they are fun as hell to play. In this workshop, known character Syd Campbell will lead you into the coolest ways to approach characters and practice embodied presence on stage.
Syd will offer a diagnostic of your go-to character choices and you’ll leave this workshop having expanded your character Rolodex to the point that it is no longer feasible to house your characters in a Rolodex. Plus, you and your classmates will rock an awesome show at the end.
Pre-reqs: Intro 2 or equivalent experience
Instructor: Syd Campbell
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Improv for Auditions with Tess Degenstein
Three hours. $69.
Tess Degenstein isn’t just the newest member of Blind Tiger Comedy’s faculty, she’s also a working TV, film and theatre actor who has done countless auditions of every style. In this workshop, you will work on using improv to unlock your characters and make yourself–and your characters–more bookable.
This class is for actors who have audition experience, but is not part of the typical improv class structure. Feel free to be in touch to clarify if you are a fit for this class.
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Crowd Work in Stand Up with Toddy
Four weeks. One show. $195.
Ah, crowd work. One of the great glories of stand up comedy that only some comedians feel comfortable with, and everyone could improve at.
In this workshop (which ends with one very fun show) your stand up / improviser teacher Toddy will teach you the skills you need to integrate crowd work into your set, the confidence to handle hecklers, and the practice of how to turn unexpected moments into comedy gold!
Pre req: Stand Up 1
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Deep Dive Domino with Allie Entwistle
Four weeks. One show. $169.
In this glamorous elective you will dig into one of the most exciting long form shows we rarely do at Blind Tiger: the Domino. This is a fast-paced crowd-pleaser of a show, sure. But it also doubles as a great work to work on character, game and the skills of crushing a great comedy show.
Brunch Comedy’s Allie Entwistle is the perfect shepherd for this experience, which will culminate in a sweet final showcase with you and your fellow domin-ah nevermind.
Pre req: Intro 2
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
The Hustle with Tom Hill
Three Hours. $39.
Comedy is art and it’s also a business. In this workshop, we’re going to set the comedy craft aside for a moment and focus on the hustle side of things. You will learn about ways to level up your comedy career planning, goals, and networking, as well as specific suggestions for how to develop and produce an independent show, create a group, approach collaborators and pursue festivals and/or development deals. The workshop will also touch on the wide world of budgets, grant writing and getting that bag, however small or scummy.
This workshop has a seminar feel – Tom will talk a bunch, but you’ll also have space to ask questions and try out some exercises. This workshop is appropriate for folks just planning their first show or 100th, and in fact it benefits from a wide mix of experience levels. If money is a barrier to your participation in this workshop, reach out, let’s not let money get in the way of money talk.
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Advanced Scene Study with Caitlin Howden
Four Weeks. $195.
No pressure. Just scenes. Every week you’ll get some stage time, productive and helpful notes, and the chance to work on your personal goals.
This space is exclusively for experienced improvisers, or AS 2 as a prerequisite.
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Improv For Sketch with with Allie Entwistle
Four Classes. One Show. $169.
At Blind Tiger Comedy, our core curriculums approach sketch comedy as something you create based on your own sense of what you find funny, working from the page to the stage. But that is not the only great way to go about it! Small, struggling companies like Second City get to written comedy by improvising with other comedians and writing it down later.
It so happens we have one half of world-class sketch duo on faculty who have all the tools and experience developing sketches this way (hellllooooo Brunch!) and then touring them all over the continent, nbd. So, come learn how to generate premises and create sketches out of improv.
This elective is ideal for individuals, duos or writing groups looking to expand their writing skills with the power of improv. You’ll look at getting the ideas out through improv, heightening these ideas and exploring them with improv techniques to see if it can be made into a sketch. Bring a paper, pen and/or computer!
This four week course will serve as a substitute pre-requisite for Sketch 1 for those who might be interested in focusing primarily on sketch comedy. The pre-requisite is Intro 1, but if you have other experience with improv let us know. Come get your riff on!
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Embrace the Mistake with Caitlin Howden
Three Weeks. Nine Hours. $179.
Every improv scene is filled with gifts, so how do we find them and play them with ease? Instead of working too hard or quickly losing steam, we will eliminate the panic and get curious. You’ll have a feeling of joy towards your characters and the confidence to be playful and in the moment. Hopefully every scene feels uniquely funny!
Pre req: Intro 2
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Sketch Gym with Devin Mackenzie
Four weeks. One show. $195.
In this class you’ll bring written sketches (both new and previously written/performed!) and receive notes, challenges and punch ups to bring those sketches to the next level. Culminating in a performance of at least one of those sketches from each student.
This is a great opportunity to work on whatever you are most keen on in sketch, whether that’s a project you created outside of Blind Tiger or some sizzling hot new comedy direction. It’s like scene study but for sketch!
Pre reqs: Sketch 1 or equivalent experience
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Party Improv aka Short Form Bonanza with Devin Mackenzie
Four weeks. One show. $195.
You see them all over town, at Treat Show Comedy and The Sunday Service: short form improv games that are super fun to play, get big laughs, and audiences love. Devin Mackenzie has over 15 years of short form experience and will give you a crash course on all the most fun games, how to play them, and how to set them up so you can knock them down at your own shows. Whether you want to learn fun approaches to classics like Ding or Correspondence or more tricky structures like Forward-Reverse or Cross Dub, this is the workshop for you!
This class culminates in a show hosted by Devin where you will play in your favourite games as chosen by you! Truly what could be more fun?
Pre-req: Intro 2
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
LGBTQ+prov with Syd Campbell
Four classes. 10 hours. $195.
LGBTQ+prov is born of queer and trans instructor Syd Campbell’s desire to teach a class they always wished they could take. Using comedy we will explore performing queer narratives in fun and hilarious ways, opposing the idea that our queerness is an inherently painful part of ourselves. This workshop will play with gender performance, confidence, vulnerability, taking up space, and bringing joy into our queer bodies.
This class is open to anyone who has completed Intro 1 or higher.
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Improv for Actors with Kevin Vidal
Eight classes. 20 hours. $395.
Improv is an essential spice in the recipe that is acting. In this intro to improv class designed explicitly for actors, Blind Tiger Comedy faculty member Kevin Vidal (Strays, Working Moms) will lead you and other like-minded actors into the skills and techniques that make improv great.
You will work on the particular concepts and approaches that make improv work on stage, and discuss the application of those skills to scripted work of all kinds (though you won’t be working with scripts in this class). You will learn to be comfortable with the unexpected, to thrive in the discovered moments in a scene, and to listen and play with your scene partner with ease and joy.
After eight weeks of very fun work you and your fellow thespians will take the stage in a glorious, hilarious show, and the course will conclude with one-on-one feedback from Kevin.
Pre-reqs: this class is explicitly for actors who have trained outside of Blind Tiger, but no improv experience is required.
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Deepen Your Characters with Tess Degenstein
Four Weeks. 10 hours. $195.
In this class with world-class improviser Tess Degenstein (Blind Date, Noises Off), you will explore how to create characters in scenes, and the combination of specificity, spontaneity, and technique that makes our characters rich and sustainable! Through exercises and scenework, we will investigate a variety of methods to deepen our characters, aiming at practical application, and expanding your comedic toolset.
Note from Tom: Tess is an incredible character actor and brings that to her hilarious, bold improv in all situations. Taking your characters to the next level is perhaps the best thing you can do for your improv, and there’s no one better to practice with than Tess!
Pre-req: Intro 2
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Get Out of Your Head with Tess Degenstein
One class. 3 hours. $55.
This workshop with world-class improviser Tess Degenstein (Blind Date, Noises Off) aims to further connect the improvisor with their impulses. Through exercises, scene work, and coaching, students will learn to play with less hesitancy and more fearlessness. Emphasis here is not on cleverness, but on playfulness, and joy. We will investigate how to inspire our scene partners and, in doing, surprise ourselves. When was the last time you surprised yourself…?
A little note from Tom: Tess is one of the funniest, wildest, kindest improvisers you will ever meet. Hop into this workshop! You will thank yourself later!
Pre req: Intro 1
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Free Classes
Join us for our FREE comedy classes!
BIPOC Night with Kevin Vidal
One class and One show. 1.5 hours. FREE.
Blind Tiger is hosting a free class for BIPOC folks led by the wonderful and talented Kevin Vidal. It’ll be an hour of sweet loose scenes, games, and meeting some very cool people.
The free class will be followed by The Jam Show, this chill performance opportunity is for BIPOC improvisers of all levels to play hosted by the faculty member who led the night’s free class! The public is very welcome to watch!
Cost: Free
- 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – The Free Improv Class for BIPOC folks! – This one-hour improv class is open to all BIPOC individuals. Beginners are very welcome, as are more seasoned improvisers! Members of the public are not invited to this part of the night.
- 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM – BIPOC Jam Show – this chill performance opportunity is for BIPOC improvisers of all levels to play hosted by the faculty member who led the night’s free class!
Saturday, 5:00-6:30pm PST
November 25th
Location: China Cloud Studios
Instructor: Kevin Vidal
register nowThis class is open for registration!
The Free Improv Class
One class. 90 minutes. FREE.
This workshop will consist of some easy, fun, accessible intro games and maybe even a few scenes that will give you a taste of the joy, confidence, and thrill that improv can offer. Maybe you’re interested in trying a full class and just want to “taste a sip” first – this is that! Have no fear, this class will make you feel welcome.
No experience necessary! Must be at least 18 years old.
This workshop will be led by one of the working professional comedians who make up our amazing faculty.
Sunday, 2:00-3:30pm PST
January 14th
Location: China Cloud Studios
Instructor: Devin Mackenzie
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday December 22 at high noon PST.
Sunday, 4:00-5:30pm PST
January 14th
Location: China Cloud Studios
Instructor: Devin Mackenzie
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday December 22 at high noon PST.
The Free Sketch Class
One class. 2.5 hours. FREE.
Have you always been curious about sketch comedy but never had an opportunity to try it? Well this is the approachable one-class crash course for you. It will include easy, fun, introductory sketch writing exercises, a look at some of the concepts that we think make great sketch writers hilarious, and a chance to try some writing of your own. Beginners welcome, this class is a perfect place to start in the amazing world of sketch!
This workshop will be led by the amazing improviser and comedian, Kerri Donaldson!
Tuesday, 7:00-9:30pm PST
January 16th
Location: Carousel Theatre Studios
Instructor: Kerri Donaldson
register nowThis class will open for registration on Friday December 22 at high noon PST.
LGBTQ+ Jam with Syd Campbell
One class and One show. 2.5 hours. FREE.
Blind Tiger is hosting a free class for LGBTQ+ folks led by the wonderful and talented Syd Campbell. It’ll be an hour of sweet loose scenes, games, and meeting some very cool people.
The free class will be followed by The Jam Show, this chill performance opportunity is for LGBTQ+ improvisers of all levels to play hosted by the faculty member who led the night’s free class! The public is very welcome to watch!
6pm – 6:15pm – Come chat and introduce yourself to your fellow comedians.
6:15 – 7:15pm – The Free Improv Class for LGBTQ+ Folks! – This one-hour improv class is open to all LGBTQ+ individuals. Beginners are very welcome, as are more seasoned improvisers! Members of the public are not invited to this part of the night.
7:30-8:30pm – The LGBTQ+ Jam Show – this chill performance opportunity is for LGBTQ+ improvisers of all levels to play hosted by the faculty member who led the night’s free class! The public is very welcome to watch!
* Come at 8:15pm to sign up for the Jam, just so we know you’re interested!
If you plan to join, please reserve a ticket through Eventbrite, but even if you don’t have a ticket, feel free to drop in.
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Women & Femme-Aligned Night with Kerri Donaldson
One class and One show. 2.5 hours. FREE.
Blind Tiger is hosting a free class for Women and Femme Alligned folks led by the wonderful and talented Kerri Donaldson. It’ll be an hour of sweet loose scenes, games, and meeting some very cool people.
The free class will be followed by The Jam Show, this chill performance opportunity is for women and femme-aligned improvisers of all levels to play hosted by the faculty member who led the night’s free class! The public is very welcome to watch!
Cost: Free
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7:00 PM – 7:15 PM Come chat and introduce yourself to your fellow comedians!
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7:15 PM – 8:15 PM The Free Improv Class for women and femme-aligned folks! – This one-hour improv class is open to all women and femme-aligned individuals. Beginners are very welcome, as are more seasoned improvisers! Members of the public are not invited to this part of the night.
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8:30 PM – 9:30 PM – Women & Femme-Aligned Jam Show – this chill performance opportunity is for women & femme-aligned improvisers of all levels to play hosted by the faculty member who led the night’s free class! The public is very welcome to watch!
* Come at 8:15 PM to sign up for the Jam, so that we know you’re interested!
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
The Free Improv Class in Surrey!
One class. 90 minutes. FREE.
This workshop will consist of some easy, fun, accessible intro games and maybe even a few scenes that will give you a taste of the joy, confidence, and thrill that improv can offer. Maybe you’re interested in trying a full class and just want to “taste a sip” first – this is that! Have no fear, this class will make you feel welcome.
No experience necessary! Must be at least 18 years old.
This workshop will be led by the amazing improviser and comedian, Syd Campbell!
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Trans and Non-Binary Jam
One Jam. 2 hours. FREE.
Blind Tiger is hosting a free improv jam for students who identify as Trans and Nonbinary led by the wonderfully talented Syd Campbell. It’ll be two hours of sweet loose scenes, games, and meeting some very cool people.
Everyone is welcome: Blind Tiger students, non-Blind Tiger students, and people who have improvised a lot or a little or not at all. We’ll be improvising, getting to know one another, chatting about comedy, and just generally connecting and having a great time in a safe and fun environment. Snacks provided, come on down!
Please note this drop-in improv jam is reserved for Trans and Non-binary folks. If you plan to join, please reserve a ticket through Eventbrite, but even if you don’t have a ticket, feel free to drop in.
This class is not currently open for registration. To be alerted when it is, sign up for our mailing list.
Bloc Fest 2023!
- A showcase slot in the main festival program
- Spots for each player on the team in one of the festival jams
- Entry in the Bloc Fest Awards (see last year’s coveted Plates above, who doesn’t want a plate?)
- A video of their showcase set
- Invitation to the always-fun Bloc Fest after party
- More surprises for the third-annual festival in 2023!
- $975 for four weeks at two hours a week (Includes four custom workshops plus Bloc Festival set and jams)
- $1900 for eight weeks at two hours a week (Includes eight custom workshops, a student showcase after four weeks, plus Bloc Festival set and jams)
- If you provide your own venue, these prices are lower ($775 for four weeks, $1500 for eight weeks)
We’re so excited about year three of this festival! 2021 and 2022 were huge highlights, this one will be too. Still have questions about our Bloc Team Program? Feel free to check out our handy Bloc Team Information Doc or get at us with questions via classes@blindtigercomedy.
Bloc Teams
There’s nothing quite like choosing the group you’re with and collaborating towards a collective comedic goal. With this in mind, we created the Bloc Team Program. Bloc Teams are a great chance for you and your people to find your voices together, with help from a professional comedian/coach, and the next big step for us and our rad community. Here’s how they work:
- Assemble– Find your people. It could be a duo, a trio, a group of eight…so long as you’re thrilled about every name on the list. They can be at the same point as you in the core classes series (we recommend this) or not, though all performers must have completed Intro 2 or have equivalent experience.
- Rehearse & Perform– Your coach will build your team a rehearsal schedule customized to your strengths, weaknesses, and goals. Each group will get one or two showcases (depending on if you run four or eight weeks) in the Blind Tiger Comedy show schedule.
- Cost – Depends on class length and schedule, but you can generally imagine around $975 per four weeks at two hours a week, or $1900 for eight. Includes four custom workshops and one show for every four weeks that you are working. If you provide your own venue, these prices are lower ($775 for four weeks, $1500 for eight weeks).
- Submit – Use our Bloc Team application form and give us a sense of your group, your schedule, your preferred coach and what you think you want to do. Notes:
- Registration for Bloc Teams is ongoing, submit anytime.
- Note: Bloc Teams are confirmed once we have received payment from you for that group.
- Once Bloc Team schedules are agreed upon, we are unable to be flexible on changes to your group’s schedule. Measure twice, cut once!
- Then – we’ll review all your info, and get back to you within a couple business days!
Want more information, check out this Bloc Team Information Doc for answers!
If you have questions, we’re at classes@blindtigercomedy.ca
Buy a gift card from us!
Looking to help someone take the plunge into the best decision they’ve ever made? We’ve found gift cards really help with that.
Our gift cards are set up through Gift Up! so that you can easily buy them right here on the site! It’s ridiculous how easy it is, really. Instructions for how to redeem this value are below (spoiler: it’s also really easy). If you or they need any help with gift cards we’re here to help! Get at us via classes@blindtigercomedy.ca
How to Redeem a Blind Tiger Comedy Gift Card
1 – Check out www.blindtigercomedy.ca/classes (that’s this one!) and pick the upcoming class that’s for you
2 – Click the Register Now link or head right to our Eventbrite Page to pick a class
3 – When you get to the Tickets page, click “Enter Promo Code” and enter the code on your card (screenshot of this step below). That will automatically discount off the amount of your card!
4 – If there is a difference remaining to pay, you’ll need to pay by credit card to pay the balance.
A reminder! If you or your recipient have questions, get at us via classes@blindtigercomedy.ca we’re always happy to help.
