Improv Workshops
Targeted Masterclasses for Performers, Directors, and Producers
Intensive, single-session masterclasses that break down specialized performance mechanics and build ethical community spaces.
As an intensive facilitator and guest instructor, I design targeted masterclasses built to sharpen technical performance mechanics and construct high-trust, inclusive rooms. My specialized leadership and organizational dynamics intensives—including Making Your Improv Auditions Equitable and Ethical and Oops,...Ouch: Responding to Unexpected Moments of Harm—equip directors and producers with actionable strategies for transparent team communication, inclusive casting, and navigating difficult group moments. On the performance side, I draw on a decade of experience across major international festivals to lead advanced intensives focused on long-form techniques, scene mechanics, and musical improv fundamentals. By blending sharp comedic execution with intentional, brave space frameworks, I create low-stakes, highly engaging environments where seasoned players can fearlessly explore creative friction points, build relational awareness, and rediscover the pure joy of real-time creation.
Improv Workshops:
Reviews and Testimonials
“Mary’s skills as a facilitator and collaborator cannot be overstated! She created a safe and approachable space for me to explore and discuss how my intersecting identities inform my practice as both a comedian and instructor through the use of applied improv.
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“Mary’s workshop was excellent. She not only clearly communicated the core ideas of the workshop, but she also modeled them by fostering a supportive and thought-provoking environment. I would readily take another workshop with her because I learned things that enhanced my present understanding, and I also learned about my own blindspots, and that means I have an idea of which direction to go in order to continue growing as an instructor and community member. Thank you, Mary!”
“Mary is amazing, and led the audition workshop with clarity, empathy, and genuine insight and knowledge. There was never a time I felt confused or lost in what we wee doing and more importantly the why behind it. I felt supported and empowered to carry the work beyond the workshop. I was witness to two other individuals who took the workshop using what we learned and carrying the confidence the very next day. I can openly state that I will sign up enthusiastically for any event in the future where Mary is the lead.”
“Mary’s workshop was incredible. I highly recommend it for everyone. Whether you are wanting to learn how to better navigate in improv, or even difficult moments in life, this workshop dove deep and was really fun! People brought their full selves and perspectives and we workshopped navigating moments. I took a lot from this workshop that will help me in teaching improv and in having important conversations with my improv teams. Thank you Mary!”
“Had a great time! I did not expect to get all that profesh experience””
“It was an honor to take a class taught by Mary Parker. She holds such wisdom and grace and it was lovely to watch how she worked with the class. And how she facilitated discussions dealing with sensitive or awkward moments in improv. She created a space where we felt safe and heard. This built a trusting environment where we could all play and share at the best of our intelligence while being supportive of each other. This is such a gift in this artform. And any improv community will only benefit from doing work like this with Mary.”