Format Design Masterclass with Jim Fishwick

Want to go from playing in other people’s shows to making your own? Want to lift the lid on what makes improv formats work? Got a burning idea for a show but don’t know where to start?

In this dynamic and practical conservatory-level course, you’ll learn the ropes of inventing and refining improvised shows, with a little bit of theory, a few case studies, and a whole lot of hands-on theatremaking. Each week, you’ll be given the challenge to develop a completely new show, exploring a different aspect of improv formats. You’ll receive in-depth feedback on your work and process from Jim and the class, and come away with a portfolio of ideas to try out.

Please note: this class is intended for people who have completed all six levels of ITS, or have equal levels of experience with a variety of improv formats. Knowledge and familiarity with a range of improv formats is needed!

This is a five week course, meeting for 2.5 hours each week, with Week 3 being an online session. There will be homework required each week, and the course will culminate in a showcase where you’ll get to perform your new format!

Feedback from previous students:
“Jim‘s class was a fantastic opportunity to be reminded of the possibilities inherent in this artform. Not only did Jim give us a safe and creative space to play with our ideas, but also they gave us the confidence and encouragement to break out of existing patterns and ways of thinking about improv.”

“I took this class based on my appreciation for Jim Fishwick’s formats and thoughtful approach to improv. Jim is a great and supportive teacher, with considered and helpful feedback and clear and practical ideas. The course was well structured and the practical assignments – creating a new show from a prompt each week – not only ensure you practice but enable you to come out of the course with some real and visible progress on your craft. I have often taken courses and found that the content has left my brain soon after – whether because it was familiar or hard to directly apply. This course was both practical and interesting and will stay with me for a long time and certainly help in my work as an improviser, director and producer of shows. Thanks Jim!”

About Jim:

Jim Fishwick is an award-winning theatremaker, writer and teacher. They are the general manager of Jetpack Theatre, creating experiential, interactive and immersive theatre, and the Artistic Co-Director of the New Zealand Improv Festival. Jim also writes for the BBC2 quiz show Only Connect, plays the ukulele and enjoys cryptic crosswords.