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Focus on Forms: Dan DeSalva


  • Monkey Bottom 609 Trent Drive Durham, NC, 27705 United States (map)

We all know the Harold (sorta), but what else is there? This class will be a crash-course in nine unique improv forms. We’ll define these structures as well as explore techniques that will help you become a stronger performer, regardless of the form. This class is perfect for members of existing or developing improv teams: learn the basics of a form and bring it back to your team to rehearse and perfect! The class will culminate with a performance of whichever form the class elects to perform. 

Please read our Lab Policies before signing up for a class or workshop. 


Dan DeSalva's 2015 Headshots-1.jpg

ABOUT DAN DESALVA
Dan DeSalva
has been performing comedy since 2006. Starting as a stand-up, Dan performed throughout the New York metropolitan area, affiliated with the Kids ’N Comedy program at the Gotham Comedy Club in New York, as well as Treehouse Comedy Productions in Connecticut.

In 2009, Dan moved to Illinois to attend Northwestern University. Shortly after, Dan began his formal improv training at the iO Theater in Chicago. After completing the iO program, Dan enrolled in The Second City Conservatory. While at The Second City, Dan contributed written articles and assisted with video productions for The Second City Network. His independent group RAINSTICK was featured in the 2015 Chicago Improv Festival as one of Chicago's top emerging artists. RAINSTICK still performs throughout the United States at various comedy festivals.

In the summer of 2015, Dan moved to Chapel Hill where he joined DSI Comedy Theater. He was an ensemble member of Versus, the theater's hip-hop improv team, and coached the team from 2016-2017. At the theater, Dan taught at the comedy school as well as generated unique lesson plans separate from the established curriculum. In 2017, Dan was elected to the Chatham Arts Council, where he currently supports local artist through grants, events, and education. Dan remains active in the Triangle comedy community and continues to perform, teach, write, and coach. 

Dan has been privileged to study under Tara DeFrancisco, Colleen Doyle, Michael Gellman, Noah Gregoropoulos, Lyndsay Hailey, Michael Lehrer, George McAuliffe, Charlie McCrackin, Dana Quercioli, Dee Ryan, Jason Shotts, and Craig Uhlir. He has also taken workshops with Kevin Mullaney, Mick Napier, and Katie Rich.

Earlier Event: November 25
Chill Out: Corey Brown
Later Event: January 23
101: Intro to Improv