SAM, I have come across several different companies or groups that offer series of free classes or ongoing workshops, I was wondering if these were frowned upon by agents in any way (Being possibly unheard of on a resume was the first thing that came to mind)? I thought it would be a good way to keep my skills sharp while money is tighter and I can't afford more traditional and well known classes.

Thanks so much!! :-)

One free class that is good is Chris Berube (http://berubians.com). He taught many of the Groundlings and teaches an improv class for free.

If you're talking about those free one day classes, you can't rightfully put those on your resume. Most of them are usually ways to sell their classes.

I will definitely look into that class. And no, you are right, I wouldn't put one class on my resume. I was referring to ongoing/weekly ones where people come and go.

Like?

I have not been to any of these so cannot vouch for them, but here's an example of what I have heard/come across:

http://www.monkeybutlercomedy.com/workshops.html

I'm not just asking about *this* particular set, but the general idea as well. Thanks :-)

hm... they do a class in culver city, that i could actually make. hm, interesting. i wonder how they can offer those classes completely free like that. but i would totally go! my improv skills honestly suck, so any teaching would be better than what i've had already.

i don't think it could hurt, eh?

I take the Monkey Butler short improv class in Studio City. It's excellent. Ryan Self generally teaches it, and is as precise in his critiques as he is loving and generous in his desire to share what he knows.

If there's a catch here, I haven't found it. The group did grow out of a Christian church, and for those who want it there's a prayer at the end - but only after due warning to us secular types so we can leave.

Anyone who reads this board regularly knows that I'm not exactly insensitive to attempts at manipulation. I really don't find any here - just a fun loving group of people who get up and play.

For Chris Berube, see
Actor's Access thread

I've never seen any of the shows that Chris Berube has at his theatre, but his improv classes aren't bad for what you don't pay for.

Thanks for all the input, guys! Great to hear!

Jim, do you then include these classes on your resume?

Yes.

I've paid for almost every class I've taken elsewhere. These are as good as any paid classes I've taken.