Q: What makes The New Movement different than other improv training centers?

A: Our training center has no affiliation with any existing improv schools in the country. We created a unique syllabus focusing on specific techniques that will teach you to find your personal comic strengths. Our classes will help you write your script, nail the audition, find your comic voice, hone your stand up.

Q: Who takes your classes?

A: People who are interested in pursuing a career in comedy, actors who want to sharpen their skills, writers who want to find a new approach and anyone who is looking for a new creative outlet. We have students from all background and age groups.

Q: What kind of time commitment are classes?

A: All classes run for 8 weeks each and 2 hours a piece. Our Improv curriculum is 5 levels, Sketch Comedy is 3 levels and Standup is 6 levels.

Q: Where are classes taught?

A: All classes are taught at The New Movement Theater located at 1819 Rosewood, next door to Nubian Queen Lola’s. Several Cap Metro routes pass near the theater (#2, #21/22, #320) and we have bike racks and street parking.

Q: How much do classes cost? Are there discounts? Can I pay in installments?

A: Level 1 Improv and Sketch Comedy Writing Classes are $150 per 8-week session. Levels 2-5 are $200 per 8-week session. Standup and Professional Comedy Writing Classes with Dan French are $200. We ask students to pay $100 by the first day of class and the remainder by week three. Students who enroll in two courses simultaneously receive a one time $50 discount. In special circumstances, we can work out a pay structure for you. We offer discounts for classes in the form of internships and referral discounts (refer a friend and get $75 off your tuition). Please inquire about available internships.

Q: What kind of improv will I study with The New Movement?

A: We teach and perform long-form improv. Our specific philosophy is based around the focus that scenes can be defined and mapped from the first several lines and actions at the top of the scene. We teach five levels of classes which evolve from introduction to improv skills and vocabulary to exploring character development, dynamic, patterns, devices, ensemble and advanced scene studies. We also offer elective classes for more specific focuses on forms and skills after completion of level 3. This is all for Del Close.

Q: Can I start taking improv classes at The New Movement as an upper level student, skip ahead?

A: Yes, we take each students experience into consideration and suggest they begin with either Level 1 or 2.

Q: How do I start getting on stage?

A: There are a number of ways to get involved with the Improv and Comedy scene in Austin. The New Movement is partnered with Los Angeles based Studio8.net which is launching their Austin branch in association with The New Movement. Studio8 Austin serves as a booking and promotions vehicle for our training center and associated troupes booking runs, showcases and special events with a number of venues in Austin and beyond. Once you feel you are ready to bring your talents to stage, we will find your best fit. We have working relationships with the following venues, festivals and events:

Q: Can I sample your classes?

A: Yes! Our Improv Zero class is every single Wednesday at 7:00p and is completely free. We occasionally do sample free classes for our Sketch, Standup, and Advanced Improv classes, just check back with us!