Shortform: (usually on Fridays)
fun and fast-paced improvised theatre, filled with scenes, songs, games, and lots of audience participation and suggestions.

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Longform: (usually on Saturdays)
full-length, narrative, genre-driven, completely improvised stories based on audience suggestions.

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Performance Labs

Students will work with a coach who provides ongoing training that includes performance techniques and genre-specific instruction.  At the end of this training, students will rehearse and perform shows designed and directed by their coach. The traditional performance labs are currently offered online and in-person. We also offer private group labs. If you don't see a performance lab at a convenient time, or if you want to work with a group you are already improvising with ....  The private group labs give advanced improvisers more autonomy in their experience. For the private groups, improvisers will start by gathering their own group of players and choosing one of BATS’ fantastic coaches. The group will work with the coach to determine what sort of instruction they want— a specific genre or skill, ongoing workshop or weekend intensive. It’s up to you! You work with BATS to decide the times and dates. Your group may even decide to perform and will work with the coach to plan and rehearse for your show(s). LINK TO APPLICATION FORM

Upcoming Classes:

Online: Canadian Horror Story Performance Lab with Karen Brelsford

Online Class Time/Date: 7:00pm - 9:00pm // September 17, 24, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, November 5 + Shows Schedule: 8 sessions + shows Class size: 12 students maximum Class length: 2 hours Prerequisites: F6 or coach approval. Email bats@improv.org for eligibility and access questions. Tuition: $449 Step into Canadian Horror Story, an improv class where you’ll delve into the eerie world of a remote ski lodge. Inspired by American Horror Story, this course focuses on crafting standalone, spine-chilling narratives where Canadian locals and unsuspecting visitors face terrifying threats hidden in the snow. You’ll refine your skills in building suspense and developing complex characters, culminating in nerve-wracking performances. If you’re ready to embrace the cold and unravel chilling tales, join us for a truly haunting improv experience.

Karen Brelsford

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.

Dave Dennison