IMPROV 201: H is for Harold
Ready to Dive Deeper into Long-Form Improv? Learn the Art of the Harold!

If you're excited to explore long-form improv and create connected, dynamic scenes, this is the class for you!

About the Class

H is for Harold is designed for improvisers who want to master the Harold, a long-form structure made famous by Del Close.

In this class, you’ll explore a single suggestion through scenes, games, monologues, and more, learning how to build a cohesive and entertaining performance.

Prerequisites:

Completion of Improv 101 and/or Acting 101 at Pan Theater or another theater.

Familiarity with the basics of "Yes, And," space work, and character development (as covered in Improv 101).

Required Reading:

Truth in Comedy by Charna Halpern, Del Close, and Kim "Howard" Johnson

The Art of Slow Comedy by Jimmy Carrane

What You’ll Learn:

This class is part of our "More Do, Less Talk" series. While there will be some instruction, the focus is on practical application — performing as many Harolds as possible once the basics are reviewed.

Topics Include:

Reviewing Basic Edits

Exploring Openings
Developing Group Games

Our work will focus on uncovering the truth of each moment, whether dramatic or organic. Comedy will arise naturally from connections, recognition, and recall, rather than trying to be funny.

Final Performance:

The class culminates in a final performance, providing an opportunity to showcase your skills.

Special Opportunity:

Students interested in continuing their journey with Pan Theater can use the class show as an audition for our House Teams. This class is offered two to three times per year.

Next Class Cycle:
Tuesday Class

9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22 & 10/29

Spots: 16 spots | 8 available

Class time
7pm to 9pm

Class Bonus 1:
Improv Dojo - 8 season class pass (a $160 value). The pass is good for one year. You can use it with a friend, for yourself or gift it. The Dojo is a mixed level drop-in class offered on Sundays from 4:30pm to 6:30pm

Location
Pan Theater, 120 Frank Ogawa Plaza in Oakland.
(12th Street BART - Ogawa Exit - walk 30 seconds from exit)

Class Cost
$295