Riverside’s improv classes have helped hundreds of individuals ignite their creativity and find their voice. Whether you’re an introvert looking to break out of your shell or an extrovert seeking to refine your creative skills, our classes welcome everyone!
FALL 2026 IMPROV CLASSES
Whose Drink is This Anyway?
Get ready for quick thinking, big laughs, and the kind of joyful chaos that makes it the perfect way to unwind on a Monday night. We’ll refresh the basics of improv and then jump into fan-favorite short- and long-form formats, designed to be fun for absolute beginners and seasoned improvisers alike. No experience necessary, just a willingness to play. And because it’s happy hour, every participant receives one drink of their choice (beer, wine, soda, sparkling water, etc.) each week. New friends, short-form improv games, and a moment to breathe in Riverside Theatre’s beautiful lobby… a great way to unwind and connect.
Mondays, 5:30-6:30PM – Lobby
October 19 – November 16
Yes, And Two More Beers
LEVEL 2 IMPROV w/ Optional Showcase
Already taken an improv class? Performed improv before? Have a clear idea of the fundamentals…but want to learn more? LEVEL UP your improv skills in this intermediate class designed to deepen our knowledge of storytelling, character development, and improv scene/format skills. If the thought of improv scares you, we’ll bring some liquid courage… each participant will receive 2 drinks (beer, wine, soda, sparkling water, etc) at each class!
Optional Showcase: On the night of our last class (November 16th) you’ll have the option to showcase what you’ve learned in a fun, low-pressure performance for friends and family.
Mondays, 7-9PM – Lobby
October 19 – November 16
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS
Kathleen Johnson, Riverside’s Director of Education & Outreach, has been teaching improv, theatre arts, and communication throughout the midwest for the past 15 years. She attended Notre Dame University and earned her BA in Theatre and English. She went on to earn her Masters of Arts in Teaching from the University of Iowa. She studied improv from performers at Second City Improv, Improv Olympic, and Huge Improv Theatre, has performed on short form and long form improv troupes, coached adult improv teams, and has led dozens of improv classes and corporate improv workshops.
Dan Junis, an improv instructor at Riverside, has been involved in Iowa City’s improv scene for the past 7 years. He attended the University of Iowa and earned his BA and MA in Linguistics. Dan studied improv through Willow Creek Theatre, Riverside Theatre, and several workshops offered by IO from Chicago. He has co-taught improv classes at Riverside, is a founding member of Willow Creek’s house team Lady Franklyn, and has been performing long form with Lady Franklyn for 3 years.