Jumping In: The Challenge of a Reluctant Improv First-Timer


Lights, camera, comedy! While many enjoy watching or participating in the spontaneous rush of improv and comedic acting, Cal Poly freshman Declan Henry is not amongst those “many”. Henry, being more interested in “serious or dramatic acting” has always seen improv as an afterthought when it comes to performance. After being nagged by his good friend Mady Kubiak to participate in a workshop hosted by Smile and Nod member, Isaiah Covarrubias, Henry finally agreed to give it a try. Kubiak assured him that Covarrubias’ energy and “dedication to the art” would make him feel at ease, but Henry remained unphased. Nervous and skeptical, he walked into his first improv class, bracing himself for annoyance and a possible disaster. Little did he know that this unexpected challenge might just push him outside of his comfort zone in ways he had never imagined, teaching him and the rest of the participants the true importance of comedy and community. 



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