Wrapping Up My Improv and Writing Series at New England School of the Arts

End of one section of road, start of another on the Lebanon Rail Trail

This spring, I had the joy of facilitating a multi-session improv and writing class for the students of New England School of the Arts (NESA). Each first-period session blended creative writing with applied improvisation to help students kick off their school day with energy, imagination, and collaboration.

We used a variety of engaging games and exercises designed to build storytelling skills, communication, and creativity. Some of the writing and improv activities included:
✍️ Headlines
🌀 Storyspine
🎭 Yes, And
🌩️ Sound Cloud
📚 One Word at a Time Book Title
🌳 I Am a Tree

After the first week, some students noted, "Oh, we've already done these games—they're boring," having seen similar formats in their drama class. So I pivoted, improv-style. I invited them to create their own improv games based on what they were currently passionate about. They rose to the challenge—designing original games inspired by government, policy, history, animals, spaceships, Newsies, and led their peers through their custom-built games with increasing confidence.

By our final session, their reflections were powerful:
✨ “I liked doing something creative before we head into academic studies.”
✨ “I liked collaborating with other students.”
✨ “I like doing improv!”

Creative writing and improvisation for students is a powerful tool to build voice, confidence, creative skills, and community. NESA and I are already in conversation about bringing this series back in the fall.

Are you an educator or school administrator looking to offer creative writing and improv workshops for your students? I offer in-person and virtual (Zoom) sessions tailored to middle and high school learners.

Let’s bring creativity into your classroom. Reach out to explore how we can collaborate.