This is an improv jam. Just like musicians that get together informally and 'jam' to keep their skills sharp by working with new people, improvisors have to do the same thing. Its an informal, relaxed gathering for people to meet, play and learn!

There is an FAQ below that includes a section on Ground Rules! We ask all participants read those sections, if nothing else.

7:00 - Sign-ups begin

7:45 - Warm-ups

~7:55 - Play begins (including short & long form, along with a "team time" sometimes)

We will also open up to provide a lab portion (the "Sandbox") at the end to allow improvisors to try new things with the group's help. If you have something you want to try, this is the place to experiment! Just be sure to let the hosts know you want to do something at the end so we can plan accordingly.

----

FAQs

What are the ground rules?

We want a safe and comfortable environment for everyone to participate. We expect everyone to be respectful, to honor everyone's boundaries, and to follow the 90/10 rule.

The 90/10 rule simply states that any physical contact should be telegraphed to the receiving participant and the receiving participant can decide whether they want to accept the physical contact. The last 10% of the actual contact is left up to the receiver to accept, or say, "no" to.

Do I need a ticket?

No. We just put this here to get into search results and let folks know about the jam through other channels.

I just got to Manuel's Tavern ... now what?

If you walked in the front door, hang a right, go past the pinball machines and restrooms and we'll be in the back room. It maybe curtained off but don't be shy. Just come on in.

What if I show up late?

Its cool. We get it ... Things come up and Atlanta traffic is awful. You are welcome to watch ... but we want to respect all the other participants to having their boundaries heard and honored. We cannot let you participate if you were not part of the check-in.

Do I have to participate?

Not at all. You are free to watch as long as you are respectful and supportive.

I don't know anyone. What should I do when I show up?

Just ask for the host. It'll be Scott, Jessica, Amber, Maria, or Dmitry. One of us will make sure you're engaged and introduced. There should be a sign-up sheet and you want to get your name onto it so we know to add you to the games.

What is an improv jam?

Hopefully, you've heard of jam sessions in other areas (most notably, in music). This is much the same. An improv jam is just a group of improvisers getting together to play and hone their skills. While improvisation is unplanned, developing the skills is deliberate so that's where jams come in.

Why is it called Yes, Sandbox?

The Sandbox is a space for improvisers to come and try out new forms, play new or different games, and experience new things. You can bring your own ideas, help people with their ideas or just back and watch the hilarity ensue! It is based on Cincinnati Improv's The Lab segment in their jams.

Feels like there's more to it than that ...

Well, there's also the "Yes, and" component that is inherent in improv. "Yes, and" is the idea that improvisation is based on accepting the reality the improviser sets forth. So the answer to everything is, "Yes" ... and then you add to it.

Improv Jam: Yes, Sandbox - Monday at Manuel's Tavern

Follow this organizer to stay informed on future events