Exploring the Armando - Advanced Elective Class

About this class:

Over four weeks, we'll explore and practice the Armando show format. The Armando is named after its creator, Chicago Improv teacher and player Armando Diaz.

At its base, this improv format starts with a storytelling-style monologue, based on an audience suggestion. After the monologue, players play improvised scenes inspired by the monologue, and the monologue may even continue, later on in the performance.

The Armando style can be extended to a number of related formats where the 'raw materials' are interviews, stand-up acts, sketches, news stories, and more. The opportunities to apply this structure are nearly limitless.

Each class session will run from 7pm-9pm ET, with optional time available after class to discuss and debrief:

• Week 1 (November 17): What Makes a Good Story Input?
• Week 2 (November 24): Meeting Audience Expectations and A to C Thinking
• Week 3 (December 1): Elevating the Guest of Honor
• Week 4 (December 8): Putting it All Together
• Student Showcase (December 15)!

This class is in-person, but Highwire Improv also offers online classes - check out our page for other offerings!

Prerequisites:

Students must have completed Highwire Improv's Fundamentals of Improv Level 2 class, or have equivalent training at another improv training center.

About your instructor:

Barry Wright (he/him) is a improviser, teacher, and technology professional. He is a co-founder of Highwire Improv and currently serves as President of the Board. He has trained in improv since 2017, including at Baltimore Improv Group, Hoopla Impro, and numerous online workshops. He performs with groups including Improv Jeoparty, Topiary, Important Screws, Whatever This Is and Dreamweaver. Barry lives with his wife Kristen and their three cats and is always happy to chat about improv or start a Google Doc.

About Highwire Improv:

Highwire Improv is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization based in Baltimore, Maryland. Our mission is to steward a community of artists committed to growth, collaboration, joy, and justice — in Baltimore and around the world — through improvisational theater.