ComedySportz is a competitive improv program where students practice and perform short-form games. There are no scripts and students have to think quickly and act with confidence. It is a fantastic program that gives students of all types the chance to build teamwork and social skills.
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I have a soft spot for improv programs. I grew up watching Whose Line Is It Anyway, and in high school, I had the opportunity to perform in my school's improv team. At the time, I was a full fledged science nerd (and still am), but the improv program gave me the opportunity to build confidence and look beyond my AP classrooms.
I was not alone in my high school experience, and through ComedySportz Houston, I've been able to build high school improv programs from the ground up.
Starting a team
ComedySportz is very much a "you have to see it to get it" kind of program. I've explained the program to teachers year-round but it wasn't until they see the students perform that they finally say: "Oh! That's what you've been talking about!"
Getting enough students interested was a challenge. A full ComedySportz team requires 8 students, but a combination of word of mouth and video recruitment can help startup the program.
Running Practice and Securing Funding
Compared to many school programs, ComedySportz has the potential to be self-sustaining financially, but not in the first year. The program allows you to arrange workshops with professional improv coaches, as well as run performances that can generate income through ticket sales. Preview shows can generate interest among students and can help administration feel more comfortable with providing funding.
While practices with a professional improv coach are available, the majority of practices are done with the kids after school. For a new program, often the sponsor will need to take a guiding role to give students pointers and develop team building. Eventually, students can run their practices once the practice norms and culture has been established.
Running the shows
Improv shows can be very flexible with venue and resources. They don't require the extensive tech work and memorization typical of high school theater productions. However, some creative advertising can really help generate buzz about the program.
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