Less Yakkity-Yak, More Dippity-Do!

THE WORKSHOP

What do Will Ferrell, Kristen Wiig, and Melissa McCarthy all have in common? They learned how to create and play comedic characters at The Groundlings! In this workshop, Groundlings improv instructor, Navaris Darson, will teach you how to create your very own unique — perhaps even iconic! — improv characters. Additionally, students will learn how to use the elements of emotion and behavior to mine the comedy in their scenes and to generate specific, hilarious dialogue that makes their characters pop! Why? Because improv is easier and much more fun when you talk less and behave more. This workshop is perfect for improvisers who love to play characters, but if you’ve never improvised as a character before, there’s no need to worry. As long as you have a basic understanding of improv principles and a little experience beneath your belt, you’ll be able to jump in and play!

THE TEACHER

Navaris Darson (actor, improvisor, and Groundlings Sunday Company alum) has been studying and performing improv since the turn of the century! Currently, he’s an improv instructor at The Groundlings Theatre and School, which has inspired and produced five-decades worth of astounding comedic talent – including SNL cast members, sitcom actors, and film stars. In addition to teaching character-based improv at The Groundlings, Navaris has also had the great fortune to perform regularly with comedy improv legends all over Los Angeles. He’s absolutely thrilled to be a part of this year’s ITS Comedy Festival, and he cannot wait to share his passion for play pretend and make-em-ups with you!

Find them on Instagram, X and TikTok @navarisdarson

Sunday 19th November, 2pm – 5pm at Improv Theatre Sydney. 

This workshop is part of the ITS Comedy Festival 2024. Enrolling in a workshop will also grant you a free ticket to one of the shows happening at the festival (emailed to you after purchase)- check out the full program here! 

You can also get a discount off a workshop by grabbing one of our night/weekend festival passes for shows.