For the inner comedian in all of us, no matter our age, Toronto’s Bad Dog Theatre Company is known for both their wide variety of family friendly comedy and improvisational performances and improv classes designed for every skill level.
“Our Youth Academy offers week long summer camps for youth and teens all summer long,” says Beth Dunn, Youth Academy Director at Bad Dog Theatre which is located in the city’s Palmerston-Little Italy neighborhood.
Vacationers who might not be staying in the city long enough for a week-long class can opt for one day camp registration at a pro-rated price says Dunn, adding that summer camps students receive two improv workshops a day, plus an afternoon activity or performance.
While kids hone their own improv techniques, adults 18 and over can attend the adult drop-in classes.
“Bad Dog offers a wide range of drop-in classes like our beginner classes, No Experience Necessary and Spanish Language because we strive to be inclusive,” says Dunn who has been performing there since 2014.
Beyond learning improvisational techniques, family-oriented shows include The Early Show held every Saturday evening at 7 p.m. followed by Theatresports at 8 p.m. which Dunn describes as their flagship show.
“It’s been around for 30 years and features two teams of all-star improvisers going head-to-head on stage battling for your love and laughter,” she says.
Toronto’s easily navigable subway system makes getting to the theatre super simple, as it’s located right across the street Ossington Station.
“All classes and drop-ins are taught by Toronto’s finest improv instructors,” says Dunn. “Also, all of instructors perform regularly at the theatre. There is nothing better than watching your drop-in instructor battle it out later in the night at Theatresports.”
Well, maybe one thing better. Staging your own family improv battles using the skills you learned. 416-491-3115; baddogtheatre.com or email Adult & Youth Classes: classes@baddogtheatre.com
