In order for you to have the best experience you need to be on a physical computer. It may prove challenging to participate in some exercises if you are on a phone or tablet.

1. Using the menu, the image links above (if you are on a desktop or laptop), or by scrolling, find the class you want to take.
2. Claim your seat, or make your ticket purchase for the class using the provided buttons. This will open up an Eventbrite instance where you can get your ticket. Be sure to register for a FREE Eventbrite account as you will need your login to access the zoom classroom link.
3. Class registration ends a few minutes prior to class start time.
4. You will receive an email approximately 2 days, 2 hours, or 2 minutes before class. Click on the link to take you to the Online Event Page where you will find the classroom link.
5. The virtual classroom will open 5-10 minutes before class begins.
6. If it is your first time joining us, please arrive early so we can work out any technical glitches before class begins. Class MUST start on time for the benefit of all.
7. One ticket purchase is equal to one participant in the session. Each participant in the session must be on their own computer. Shared computers will diminish your quality of engagement.

Upon clicking on the link, if it is your first time, you will be asked to download the zoom app to your computer.

Downloading the app will ensure you have the best experience as the web browser version is not as good.

Watch the video to your right made by Geeks on Tour for a step by step 5-Minute tutorial.

Below are a few tips to maximize your online improv experience. Not all of them are necessary, but many of them will dramatically help you enjoy your improv session.

1. Use a computer or laptop to join the session.
2. Consider rebooting your computer so that it is fresh and peppy.
3. Close all the other apps or programs you are running to prioritize your zoom session.
4. Plug directly into the internet via an Ethernet cable. You can use WiFi if needed, but when ever you are plugged in, you will have a stronger/faster connection to the internet.
5. Have good lighting in front of you that will highlight your face. More information can be seen below in the “How do I look good on camera” section.
6. Use wireless earbuds so you are not tethered to the computer and you can move around. Yes, you can use your internal speakers and microphone, but you will have clearer audio sending and receiving if you use earbuds. More info on audio can be found in the, “How do I make my audio better?” Section below.

Taking an online improv class is different than taking an in person improv class. When you are in person have much more focus than when you are at your home. Below are some tips to prepare you for an improv class.

1. Turn off your notifications on your computer. You are taking this class to connect with others so let’s all have as much focus as we can during our class time.
2. Take the class in a room where you can be alone in order to minimize distractions. This is for you as much as it is for others that may be near by. We will be getting silly and having fun. Minimize the possibility of judgment by taking this time for yourself.
3. Digital fatigue is a real thing. We will take a 5 minute bio-break midway through a 2-hour session so plan accordingly.
4. Have a glass of water nearby so if you get thirsty you do not have to leave.
5. Sitting down can zap our energy. Consider being in a location where you can stand for some sections of the class.
6. Sometimes seeing ourselves can be distracting. Consider hiding your own video to improve your level of focus.

There are some simple things we can do that will dramatically improve what we are sending out to the world.

To the right you will find a video that gives some great tips from famous photographer Matthew Rolston.

You can also read a few great tips from Panopto here: https://www.panopto.com/blog/7-tips-for-making-webcam-videos-look-good-pants-optional/

At the end of the day, be sure to have good lighting!

If you find that your video is choppy, consider turning off “HD Video” in the video settings.

***A note on Virtual Backgrounds: Yes, they are fun! But, if you do not have a green screen, with great lighting, or if you are on an older computer, your video may not come across a clear as we would like it to.