Over 40 people auditioned for the Wellesley High School Improv Troupe this year. What makes this club so attractive to students? The answer lies not only in the material itself, but also in the bonds formed, and the lessons learned during performances.
To many, the Improv Troupe’s small size creates an intimate bond between members. Co-President Jared Goldman ’22 explained that trust is essential when practicing improv in front of the troupe, and the need to establish this level of shared vulnerability creates great friendships.
“Improv is definitely a super close-knit community. You can be goofy and ridiculous. You can succeed and fail in front of these kids, and it’s very easy to become great friends with them,” said Goldman.
The Improv Troupe also brings people from all different backgrounds together. Goldman described how the group embraced a diverse range of people, and how despite their different circumstances, participants are brought together by their shared passion for improv.
“The diversity of people in the Improv Troupe is such a wide spectrum personality-wise that you can get along with anybody. We have kids that have to leave early to go to sports practices or go to their jobs. Kids that participate in such different activities outside of school, and if you can become friends with any of them, you can get along with anybody,” said Goldman.
Members of the troupe have found many additional benefits of doing improv, one being improving their public speaking skills. Goldman admitted that many members of the troupe have been expressly asked to give speeches to other clubs or in other classes, and credited it to their time in the Improv Troupe.
“Speaking in front of classes is like no problem. Everyone will freak out about presentations and whatnot, and I’m like ‘This is something I can actually do.’” said Co-President Caroline Mack ’22.
Additionally, the troupe fosters social skills that prepare students for college interviews and the college experience. Co-President Lucy Calico ‘22 explained that the unexpected nature of improv helps her feel prepared for anything she might encounter in college interviews, or when meeting new people.
For the Improv Troupe members, performing on stage is just one of the many benefits of the club. From building close relationships with a diverse group of students to building skills that help them both within Wellesley High School and the world beyond, Improv Troupe has much to offer.
“You can research as much as you want for college interviews, but you can’t know exactly what they’re going to ask you. It’s just that element of surprise that you get used to. The Improve Troupe is good practice,” said Calico.