The improv community is a very supportive one, no matter how long you have been training or playing, there is always someone who is willing to help out or lend a hand if you need it. However, when you leave your beginners course and want to go and learn more because you have become addicted, the world of improv starts to feel different and at times it can feel very daunting and scary…

The one thing that can be very nerve-wracking when you enter an intermediate class is the fact that you are surrounded by a number of students who have got more improv experience then you and that can initially mean that it can take a while for you to come out of your shell and be the real you.

I was reading my old articles, The Improv Diaries the other day and I came across the time when I first was around members of the improv community that were more advanced. It was really interesting reading – it was a time I actually forgot about it and as I read it, all the feelings i had back then came back.

Here is an excerpt from that article:

I felt off my game and couldn’t focus feeling extremely silly with anything that I did. When I went up on stage I would freeze and think of THE worst suggestions.

The Improv Diaries – Part 13 – Piff the Magic Dragon & Ryan Stiles

It can be a really intimidating situation so if you feel nervous or weird about it realise that you are not alone! It is a common feeling and it can be pretty scary as you worry you are going to be judged. The best piece of advice that I can give you is just try to relax, ease yourself in don’t feel pressured to do anything.

Like I said at the beginning, the improv community is a very supportive one and you will eventually feel confident to get involved as well.