Classes FAQ

Where do I start?
Register for one of our Level One: Intro to Improvisation classes. It’s a life-changing six-week introduction to the style of improv we teach and perform at the Hideout Theatre. OR if you’re looking for something lighter than a six-week commitment, try our monthly Wednesday Game Nights (four weeks, 90-minutes each).
Can I test drive improv at the Hideout?
If you’d like to sample our classes, we offer multiple two-hour Free Improv Classes every month.

OR check out our Upcoming Show Schedule and come see a show to get a feel for what we do.

What do people say about your Level One class?
You can read many MANY glowing student quotes on our Student Testimonial page. Quotes like, “Improv classes are THE MOST FUN thing I have ever done.  I immediately felt very close to all my classmates, as if we were going through an adventurous and exotic rite of passage.”
If I have some previous improv experience, do I really have to start with Level One?
The Hideout’s approach to improv is unique enough that if you haven’t studied with us before we strongly encourage you to go through the early levels to pick up the vocabulary and basic principles. Because we know it’s a hassle to start over in a new program we offer a half-off discount on Level One if you’ve already been through improv classes in another training program. Email our education director for the Level One discount code—or if you’d like to ask about skipping levels.
Do I have to perform?
Only if you want to. There’s no showcase at the end of Level One, but in Level Two and beyond, each level will culminate in a student showcase in The Weekender for friends and family. You can always opt out, but after two levels and twelve weeks of classes, most people are itching to try it out on stage.
Do you offer any scholarships?
As a matter of fact we do! Click here to see if you’d be a good fit for The Hideout Diversity Scholarship Program.
How SOON can I perform?!
Most classes end with a student-led showcase in the Weekender, but if you’re hungry for more performance opportunities sooner than later, there are lots of options: Maestro Raw, Fancy-Pants, the Free Fringe, audition for Student Mainstage shows. Level Three graduates are eligible to submit availability for Maestro the Hideout’s weekly Saturday night show. Ask your teacher for more details.
What is the order of Levels at the Hideout?
Levels One through Three make up our introductory series that everyone in the world should take—as a primer in improvisation AND for the mind-blowing life lessons you’ll pick up. Levels Four through Six complete our performance series—for those of you who have decided that you’re giving this improv thing a shot as a hobby, social group, art form or career. Narrative One through Three introduce you to longer-format improvised storytelling—for people curious about creating improvised plays and movies. Singing One through Three train improvisers to make up improvised songs and musicals.
What if one class a week is not enough for me?
We offer regular specialty workshops with different topics instructors. Check out upcoming workshops here.

If you’d like to retake a Level class that you’ve already been through, we offer a repeat student discount of HALF OFF (email the education director for the code). And we believe that multiple points of view are essential to your improv education, so don’t hesitate to check out classes at the other improv theaters in town.

su_spoiler open=”yes” style=”fancy” icon=”arrow” titlen=”Do you offer training for companies and organizations?” state=”open”]Yes! Sharing what we love about improv (the incredibly useful tools and ideas) with companies, schools and non-profits is one of our favorite things ever. You can find more info at our corporate training page HideoutAtWork.com. or email corporate@hideouttheatre.com to start the conversation and get a quote.[/su_spoiler]

How can I get my friends involved?
Drag them to shows! Invite them to check out the Free Class! Forward them one of our Newsletters. Sign them up for a Level One class yourself or buy them a gift certificate. For every “referral” you send us, we’ll give you $25 off your next class. If you’re feeling especially enthusiastic, get a group of friends together and teach them what you’re learning in classes.

su_spoiler open=”yes” style=”fancy” icon=”arrow” title=”How do I get plugged into the Hideout and greater Austin improv community?” state=”open”]Hang out and socialize after shows (whether you’re performing or watching). Get invited to the parties that are happening all the time. Volunteer to help out with tech, box office or taking tickets for the weekend shows. Buy your instructor a drink and nerd out about improv.[/su_spoiler]