Conservatory Program

The Dad’s Garage Conservatory program is an audition-only training program for students who are ready to take their improv to the next level.

Our conservatory is the southeast’s premiere improv training program designed for the most dedicated and advanced performers and led by our most seasoned educators.

  • Prospective Dad’s Garage conservatory members must have complete training in one of the following ways prior to auditioning:

    Completed improv levels 1-4 at Dad’s Garage. (It is also recommended, but not required, that Dad’s Garage students take level 5)

    OR

    Completed at least one year of improv training at an approved school.  Examples of approved schools:

  • From March to October, the Conservatory meets Sundays for workshops and performs in every Tuesday night Community Jam.

    The program is $1,200.

  • Conservatory Members have the opportunity to:

    • Audition for Dad’s Garage shows

    • Perform weekly at Community Jams

    • Host Community Jams

    • Feature in special events at Dad’s Garage

    • Participate in three showcases on the main stage

    • Potentially participate in main stage performances October - December

    • Shadow directors, technical improvisers, teachers, and more

    • Teach at Dad’s Garage youth camps

    • Work directly with Dad’s Garage ensemble members


Program Highlights

The Dad’s Garage Conservatory supports the ongoing development of artists through sustained collaboration and practice. Grounded in the belief that long-term ensemble work is essential to artistic growth, the Conservatory creates space for performers to deepen their skills, refine their craft, and evolve a distinct artistic voice over time.

Dad’s Garage Theory

Take a deep dive into performing, producing, and developing improv in the Dad’s Garage style. Participants explore Dad’s Garage’s unique philosophy, approach to humor, and theatrical sensibilities while building the specific creative and improvisational skills used in signature productions such as Murder She Improvised, SCANDAL!, and The Tight Acquaintances.

Ensemble Building

Forge strong connections with fellow advanced improvisers and develop a supportive, collaborative community. Ensemble work focuses on trust, shared language, and creative risk-taking—celebrating both individual growth and collective success.

Advanced Improv Skills

Expand your performance toolkit through advanced improvisational techniques and theory, paired with personalized feedback. Participants cultivate a deeper understanding of how humor functions within improvisation and theatre, strengthening both performance instincts and intentional choices onstage.

Narrative

Explore story structure, character development, acting skills, genre, and theatrical storytelling. This track challenges performers to push beyond traditional improv forms and expand what’s possible within long-form and narrative-driven work.

Showcase

In addition to weekly performances at community nights, Conservatory participants culminate the program with a public showcase, highlighting their growth and ensemble work.