Hudson Valley Improv - Ulster Park, New York

Dan

I feel so genuinely lucky to have signed up for one of HVI's improv classes. As someone that's struggled with shy-ness and being in my head my whole life, improv seemed way out of my comfort zone.

The first day of class one of the other students who was taking level one again said "it's gonna get weird but it's good." I was a little worried but as class started I quickly realized this wasn't just me trying to overcome my personal inhibitions but rather all of us students collectively trying out this weird improv thing together.

Sam, the owner and primary teacher, is such a joy to work with. The class feels super safe and supportive which is really important because you have to trust that whatever comes out of your brain in a split second is okay and not going to be judged.

Level one is mostly improv games to get out of your head and gives enough structure to help you start to improvise small parts of scenes. Level two, while still using games, is where you start building scenes on the fly with your classmates and culminating in a final show that you're encouraged to invite friends and family to. If you're like me and start getting self-conscious when reading that, don't! Improv is a team sport, Sam and your classmates are always watching out for you. Trust that you'll never be left hanging and you will find out that you are more capable than you know.

I'm moving within the week and sadly will no longer be able to continue classes. My only regret is not starting sooner to have had more time with this wonderful group of people, they are truly a special group.

Cera F.

What Hudson Valley Improv offers is a place to learn how to play pretend again (don't you miss that?); a community of creative and brilliant people (it turns out all of us are!); a supportive and encouraging environment to learn to be fearless in the face of the scariest thing imaginable (potentially being embarrassed in front of other people on stage!?!? Yikes!). You'll do the weirdest games and you'll have the best time doing it.

But that's only if you sign up for classes! You can certainly start by attending the shows instead; the theatre is lovely, and I've never laughed harder in my life. Audience participation in the form of prompts and suggestions is crucial, so you'll always get to be a part of the action.

Secret open mic night, the most jealously and furtively guarded secret in the Hudson Valley, is a truly amazing experience. Each performer gets seven minutes on stage to do anything, the creativity on display is incredible. What else are you doing with your Thursday nights?! Why are you doing that instead? Get over here!

Julie D.

We have twice gone to their Open Mic and been impressed with how well run it is. They do a great job, and it attracts fun, interesting and talented people. They are creating an open and affirming community which really allows creativity. Great job!
Update a year later: we still love these events and are happy to have made friends with the organizers and attendees. This is a great group of people to know.

Jennifer F.

Started taking classes at HVI several years ago as a total beginner. Samantha is an excellent teacher and knows how to teach at all levels. I was worried about not knowing others in the class, but Samantha made me feel comfortable and we all started working together right away. There's opportunity to just try something fun and to continue to higher levels and really learn the craft.
I've continued with HVI and am so glad that I took a chance and tried it out!

Alicia G.

Do you like Fun? They have all the fun. There’s easy fun imaginative stuff for new people. Higher levels where Sam has unique games and focuses which I haven’t seen in other schools. She really lives it 😂 and the joy, silliness, and curiosity are very contagious! New or experienced, it revives so many areas of life and I find it very therapeutic too.

Devin H.

Decided to take a chance and try a Level 1 class with Hudson Valley Improv. Although nervous, I took a chance and never looked back. Highly recommend coming here if you're looking for a fun, welcoming and safe environment! Best gift I gave myself

Liz D. N.

Hudson Valley Improv ROCKS! The classes are fun, and the teaching is style is pure genius. Sam is an amazing improv coach, and she brings you along for the improv ride in a away that you feel safe and supported (let's face it, working without a net can be scary!) and you learn so much! If you have EVER been interested in improv, get in touch with Hudson Valley Improv, you'll come back and write an awesome review of your own!

Oh...and let's deal with the elephant in the room. No, the classes don't take place in "The City"....but I would tell people IN the City to get on a bus and take classes at HVI. Yes, it's THAT good.

E H.

I took improv classes with Samantha Jones in NYC and it was one of the best experiences I've ever had. It helped me come out of my shell and improve my public speaking abilities. I feel much more at ease in front of a group of people.
I recommend Sam without reservations. And she's such a funny and great person!
Miss Sam and her improv classes.