Learn improv (and more)
Join London’s leading long-form improv school, and take classes from real comedians.
About our classes
With teachers who are active performers, a unique syllabus that takes you from never-done-this to shining on stage, and a professional theatre that programs high quality comedy shows every weekend, the FA is the best place in London to learn the art of long-form improv, and more.
People who come here to “try something new” end up three levels deep and performing to a live audience. Getting funnier is addictive.
Our Improv Class Map
Whether you’re picking up improv for the first time or developing a performance career, there’s a clear path:
Develop your skills as a comedic performer, with specialised improv courses you can take in any order.
Other Classes
Other comedy classes
Improv is at the heart of what we teach … but there is more than one way to be great at comedy. We also run courses and workshops in sketch, writing, clowning, stagecraft and more, delivered by working professionals at the top of their game.
One-off improv workshops
As well as the Pathways that guide you from beginner to performer, we offer one-off improv workshops, special courses, and drop-ins from the FA and guest teachers.
“So much fun. Brilliant and dedicated teachers combined with lovely people in the classes. I can definitely recommend it.”
FA alum featured in GQ
“Improv made me a better writer, it made me a better performer, it made me more relaxed on stage. It made me more relaxed coming into auditions, knowing that I could just deal with anything that came out.”
“Ambika credits her organic impulses on screen to her comedy background, a mix of sketch shows, stand-up and improv. In 2024, her group, the Free Association, performed at the Edinburgh Fringe for a fourth time (post–One Day, their shows all sold out).”
Class locations
We deliver improv classes from our Southwark theatre and other cool spaces across London, including venues in Euston and Camden. Please do check the location of your class when booking.
Our teachers
The teachers at The Free Association are all experienced improvisers: active performers, writers, and comedy legends. Teachers for each level are listed on the course page.
Frequently Asked
Questions
I have zero experience doing improv. Where do I start?
Join us for a Taster Class or Level 1 course – your classmates will also be starting something new, so it will be a warm and supportive environment for learning (and laughs).
I have some improv experience. Where do I start?
We recommend everyone starts with Level 1 – it’s the basics we build on through the Foundation levels. However, if you have loads of long-form improv training from somewhere else, contact us on hello@thefreeassociation.co.uk – and we will confirm the best place for you to begin.
Can I come alone?
Absolutely, most people do.
Do you take deposits?
For one-day workshops, you must pay in full to secure your place. For 8-week or 4-day courses, there will be an option to pay a deposit when you book, with the remainder of the course fee due before the start of class.
Why should I study improv with The Free Association?
Every FA teacher is an active performer. They perform the same style of long-form improv they teach, which means the feedback you get in class comes from people who do this for real. Our courses follow a structured syllabus with a clear progression from fundamentals to advanced technique. You’ll get personalised notes, not just encouragement – and a genuine sense of how you’re improving week to week.