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Chicago-Style Improv Class
at The Alley Stage

Mondays • 6:00–8:00PM • February 9-March 16, 2026
Instructor: Rachel LaForce

Ready to sharpen your wit, think on your feet, and yes-and your way into a whole new skillset?

This weekly improv class dives deep into the world of Chicago-style improv - the birthplace of modern improvisational comedy. Whether you’re new to the stage or looking to level up your existing skills, you’ll learn techniques used by legends from The Second City, iO, and beyond. Expect games, scene work, character creation, and collaboration - all in a fun, high-energy, and supportive environment.

From quick-thinking exercises to full-length scenework, this class teaches the core fundamentals of improv:

  • Active listening & agreement (“yes, and…”)
  • Character building & ensemble work
  • Creating comedy from honest choices
  • Embracing failure and finding freedom in play

No scripts. No pressure. Just you, your scene partners, and the thrill of the moment.

Instructor: Rachel LaForce

Rachel LaForce brings over a decade of professional improv experience rooted in Chicago-style comedy. She trained and performed on the legendary stages of The Second City, touring nationally and internationally before expanding her work with HBO, Hulu, CNN, TruTV, TEDx and beyond.
As a performer, director, and teacher, Rachel is passionate about grounded scene work, ensemble building, and truthful comedy - the core pillars of Chicago-style improv. Her approach blends classic improv fundamentals with modern tools for communication, confidence, and creative presence, helping students connect more deeply to their scene partners and make stronger choices onstage.
Rachel is also the co-founder of Skewed Orbit Studios, a creative agency and venue in Atlanta, and leads a multi-platform media company that produces original content across YouTube, podcasts, and streaming platforms, reaching a combined audience of over 1.5 million. She regularly leads workshops for performers, creatives, and professionals, bringing a thoughtful, supportive, and highly practical teaching style to every room she’s in.

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Stand-Up Comedy Class
at The Alley Stage

Instructor: Todd Parker
Mondays • 6:00–9:00PM • April 13-May 18, 2026
Graduation Showcase: TBD

Ready to take the mic and make 'em laugh? Whether you’re brand new to stand-up or looking to sharpen your set, our six-week Stand-Up Comedy Class at The Alley Stage is designed to help you find your funny and build a solid set — from first idea to final punchline.

Taught by professional comedian Todd Parker, this class offers a hands-on, supportive, and seriously fun dive into the art of stand-up comedy.

What You’ll Learn
  • How to generate original material from your life and perspective
  • Writing and refining jokes using proven structure and editing techniques
  • Using voice, timing, and presence to enhance your stage delivery
  • Gaining confidence through weekly performance workshops
  • Plus, tips on navigating the local comedy scene and open mics

Class Includes:

  • Six weekly sessions (3 hours each) at The Alley Stage
  • Personalized feedback and guidance from your instructor
  • A final Graduation Showcase on October 20, where you’ll perform your set live on stage for friends, family, and fans in a fun and encouraging environment

No prior experience required — just bring your sense of humor and a willingness to try!

Instructor: Todd Parker

Todd has been making audiences laugh for over 35 years. A Boston native, Todd’s comedy origin story took place at the legendary Nick’s Comedy Stop, during the stand-up explosion of the late ‘80s. He’s toured extensively, bringing his signature humor to clubs, colleges, theaters, and cruise ships around the globe.

Todd’s also made his mark on screen, with appearances on MTV, FOX, and TBS. Film audiences may recognize him as “Rob” in the Dreamworks hit holiday movie, “Office Christmas Party”, alongside Jason Bateman and Jennifer Aniston. Todd recently performed at the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and opened for Bill Burr on his sold-out arena tour.

Known for his sharp storytelling style and upbeat energy, Todd delivers laugh-out-loud tales of his real-life misadventures that leave audiences with sore cheeks and big smiles wherever he performs.


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** Because our instructors are active, working comedians, there may be occasional classes led by a qualified substitute instructor