Returning to bring the rollicking art of improv to Maplewood this month is local improv performer and teaching artist LuLu French, who brings an impressive resume to Maplewood’s “Performance Classroom”, this year sponsored by the Theater Project. Lulu has developed a dedicated student following, and regularly performs with some of the best improv groups in New York. “Improv is important on so many levels — it really teaches you to listen and work together, which aren’t just theater skills, they’re life skills,” said French.

This winter’s offering will be a 10 week program for those in grades 6-8, beginning Friday February 17^th.

French started teaching improv at Gotham City Improv in January of 2000, and has represented GCI on numerous occasions teaching improv workshops to dozens of companies, schools, and organizations. “I love the feeling of walking into ANY class situation - no matter what the age, skill level, or degree of willingness to participate - and delivering a lively, energetic improv workshop,” explained French, who is also  involved with Broadway Classrooms as one of their top improv workshop instructors.

“Improv is great for kids-  It’s lots of fun and helps kids to open up and gain confidence.  The class will do simple ensemble building theater games and various other improv exercises, then build up to short-form improv games which will be performed for an audience at the end of the term. The kids really think fast and laugh a lot!”, said French.

Some local parents of Lulu’s alumni were more than happy to contribute testimonials:

"Wow!  Not only did my daughter enjoy the program, but I was amazed at the improv skills she had learned.  Seeing the kids think and act on their feet at the end-of-session performance was really impressive!"

"My 12 year old son loved the improvisation classes with Lulu French.  Other parents and I were amazed to watch our 'shy' children on the stage performing comedy skits!" 

"My daughters loved the Improv class with Lulu French and will continue to take the class as long as they are able.  In fact, I think this class should actually be a requirement in schools and would benefit anyone young or old.  It not only teaches the basics of Improvisation, essential for acting, but the skills taught in this class are essential for LIFE!”

Comedic Improvisation for Middle Schoolers will start a 12 class schedule Friday February 17^th from 4:00-5:00 for grades 6-8 at the Burdorff Center for the Performing Arts, 10 Durand Road, in Maplewood. The program will culminate with a Showcase during last class, plus additional evening showcase at venue in Maplewood TBA. Fee for the class is $220. To register please email lulufrench@me.com.