YOUTH PERFORMANCE TEAM

Through collaboration and creativity, the BIC Youth Improv Performance Team invites young performers to step onto the stage. Rooted in the values of the Bainbridge Improv Collective, this program fosters creativity, connection and joy through the power of improvisational theater.

Students will explore both long-form narrative improv, where stories unfold and characters deepen, and short-form improv, where games and high energy fun lead. Along the way, they’ll learn how to adapt quickly, listen deeply, and collaborate with others. In doing so, they’ll strengthen not only their stagecraft but also life skills: flexible-thinking, quick-thinking, abundance mentality, teamwork, and confidence to step boldly into any situation.

Guiding this journey are Tina, Kate, and Laurel—experienced teachers and seasoned improvisers—who bring passion, expertise, and supportive energy to every rehearsal.

  • Tina Guldhammer Frei

    With over 20 years of teaching and performing improv, Tina brings extensive training and experience from multiple performance teams to her work. A resident teacher at Bainbridge Performing Arts, she champions community-driven art, inspiring students to explore their talents, build confidence, and unlock their creativity through storytelling and collaboration.

  • Kate Henderson

    Managing Director of Side Quest Stage, Kate is a longtime improviser and arts manager passionate about fostering creative communities. Known for her work with The Edge Improv and as co-director at InD Theatre, she brings leadership from BARN and BIMA as well as past teaching experience to create a welcoming, joyful space for artists and audiences alike.

  • Laurel Marlantes

    Laurel began her improv journey over 20 years ago at The Groundlings, and later became a member of LA’s Hothouse Spontaneous Theater Company. A professionally trained actor with stage, film, and television credits, she is currently a resident teacher at Bainbridge Performing Arts. She encourages students to play boldly, listen intently, and trust themselves.

Why Join?

This isn’t just about learning improv—it’s about joining a creative family:

  • Create and connect in a judgment-free space where anything is possible.

  • Grow as performers while building skills that last far beyond the stage.

  • Experience the power of ensemble, forming bonds with teammates who become like family.

  • Share the laughter, performing live and spreading joy to the community.

Program Details

  • When: Mondays, 6:15pm – 7:45pm

  • Dates: September 29th – December 8th, 2025

  • Where: Side Quest Stage at Rolling Bay Hall

  • Sessions: 10 classes + additional performance opportunities

  • Cost: $335

  • Scholarships Available

Join us to play, grow, and become part of something special.

Audition Information

This program is designed for passionate young improvisers eager to take their skills to the next level and become part of a performance ensemble. Prior improv experience is required.

 

Have Questions?

We’d love to answer them! Want to know more, or curious if you’re kid might be right for the team? Please reach out to us here.

The world is a slighty better place for having improvisation in it than it was before. There’s something about it that says something positive about the human spirit, that a bunch of people can get together and by following a few simple traffic rules can create art and can entertain an audience and can thrill and exalt each other.

— Del Close