Advanced Training Program

Mockingbird Improv’s Advanced Training Program (ATP) is for graduates of our Improv Essentials core training series or other experienced community members looking to advance their improv skills. Class meets once a week on an ongoing basis and is tailored to the needs of the class. Our expert instructors work with our students to identify areas to strengthen and craft the class to address those needs. Goals are set at the start of each enrollment period (approximately every two months) and the curriculum is designed to work towards those goals. Students receive a lot of individual feedback and are supported in working on their specific goals as improvisers.

Program Details

Class schedule: Class meets every week on Wednesdays 7:00 - 9:00 PM in our Liberty Station location.

Performance opportunities: Students will have regular performance opportunities, at least every other month on Thursday evenings.

Other program features: Students can attend all Mockingbird Improv shows for free. Students also receive discounts on electives and workshops.

Membership is $85 a month. Billing is automatic and can be cancelled at any time. No minimum enrollment period.

Eligibility: Students are expected to have completed or be on track to complete Mockingbird Improv's level 5 class or equivalent training.

Entry to the class is by audition. Auditions are approximately every two months (see upcoming date below) and are used to ensure students have adequately grasped the concepts taught in the Improv Essentials core training program. RSVP here.

To inquire about eligibility, placement, or anything else pertaining to class, contact our Education Director at jackie@mockingbirdimprov.org

Yew Tree Group

Focus: Dramatic long form, emotional authenticity, and creating deep connections and truthful relationships within each scene. The class will entail candid feedback that challenges students to lean into moments of growth, balanced with playful banter that keeps the room light and fun. Exercises are tailored to bring out and celebrate the truth of the scene. Chris’ teaching style is loving yet straightforward, a mix of honesty, humor, and heart. With high expectations for respect toward the craft, time, and one another, he fosters a professional yet joyful environment. He’s unafraid to curse in jest and cheer in awe.

Chris “Jazz” Colthurst: Chris has been studying improv since 2001. He’s been blessed to have learned the art form from teachers at San Diego TheatreSports(SDTS), National Comedy Theater, Finest City Improv, Sidestage Improv, BATs, and Mockingbird Improv. After many years performing with SDTS, he was the founding member of Husky Improv, the sexiest improv team in San Diego, Up Yours!, puppet improv, and a collection of other indie groups. Chris has also enjoyed teaching improv classes at SDTS, The La Jolla Comedy Store and The Comedy Palace in San Diego. Chris admires the work of Peter Gabriel, Marina Abramovic, and Fred Rogers. He and his amazing wife Unison have two amazing kids Zion and Zachary.

Willow Tree Group

Focus: Character and relationship are at the core with an emphasis on following the fun. Classes are focused on performance skill and unlocking physicality for character formation. The goal is to unlock student’s authentic selves on stage and create the supportive environment necessary to find comfort in vulnerability. Josh examines the needs of his students and adapts his lessons to create a customized experience for each class. Josh’s teaching style is caring, energetic, and dedicated to the growth of his students. 

Josh Rowland: Josh has studied improv at Finest City Improv, National Comedy Theatre and the Magnet Theater (NYC). He has studied clown with Tommy Galan, Tallie Medel, Chad Damiani, Jet Eveleth, Kristen Schier, and Eric Davis. He also studied Meisner Technique at LA Acting Studio. He is known for his energetic and supportive play which blurs the line with clown. His mission is focused on following the fun in a safe, supported environment.