In-Person: Family Drama Performance Lab with Dave Dennison

Ft. Mason – Bayfront Theatre

Class Date/Time: Thursdays 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM PST // September 26, October 3, 10, 17, 24, November 7, 14, 21 + shows.

~Note: No class 10/31!~

Prerequisite: F6 or Coach Approval

*Please email bats@improv.org for the access code and other eligibility questions*

Schedule: 8 sessions + shows

Class length: 3 hours

Class size: 12 students maximum

Tuition: $449

Family Drama is an improvised 3 Act Stage play set at a family gathering. The format was created by Dave Dennison and first performed at BATS Improv in 2004 and has appeared regularly on the BATS schedule since then.

Family Drama challenges five improvisers to take a few suggestions from the audience and create a family of characters with rich histories individually and in relationship to one another. It’s a great format for improvisers who aspire to slow down and be in the moment. The action of the play unfolds in real time in one location in a naturalistic style. Family Drama pushes the players to find the specifics of their characters, the details of their family, and the deeper emotional truths that connect them.

In this lab, we will work on creating distinct characters and supporting the choices of our fellow players. Defining and embodying relationships will be a key focus as well as listening: not just to take in and remember information, but to let the truth of what is said have an impact on the character.