OKC Improv: Connections Through Comedy

Oklahoma City is home to an unexpected (and unscripted) pleasure: the OKC Improv Foundation (OKCI). This organization is devoted to bringing joy and laughter to the community, while simultaneously improving lives with improvisational theater.

The pandemic has underscored the need for innovative approaches to foster connections, and the foundation serves as a platform for individuals to embrace laughter, conquer social anxieties, develop public speaking skills, nurture creativity and forge meaningful relationships within the community.

We spoke with two core individuals associated with the OKCI — Executive Director Kendon Lacey and Katie Kochelek, a dedicated board member — to get their unique perspectives regarding its transformative influence on the community. 

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Sue Ellen Reiman, Kelsey Rumenapp, Kyle Gossett, Kendon Lacy, Tiffany Gutierrez-Connelly, Roger Connelly, Pallas Iwashita

Many people aren’t aware of the nonprofit OKC Improv.  Kendon, as the Executive Director, can you tell our readers what the organization does?

OKCI is a foundation dedicated to fostering the art of improvisation and performing across all age groups. We provide educational classes and entertaining shows for the community. Through the power of improvisation, we have witnessed its ability to effectively alleviate social anxiety and combat isolation. It offers an enjoyable means of personal growth and connecting with others — we believe laughter is a universal remedy that knows no boundaries.

OKCI is deeply committed to cultivating a vibrant and enduring comedy and performance arts landscape. We achieve this by offering a diverse range of classes, hosting regular performances and actively engaging in community outreach initiatives.

How are individuals able to get involved or support OKC Improv?

To get involved with OKC Improv, anyone can attend our shows every Friday and Saturday, enroll in an improv class or help spread the word about our existence. Despite being established in 2009, many people are still unaware of our presence.

The most effective way to support OKC Improv is through financial contributions. Donations help ensure our operations continue and the laughter keeps flowing. We affectionately refer to it as “saving the laughs!” when engaging with our partners and community members. The ongoing financial support from the community has made our work and impact possible.

Volunteer opportunities are also available, allowing you to contribute during shows or events. It’s a fantastic way to meet new people, enhance your community involvement, bolster your resume and gain a glimpse into the world of improv, even if you haven’t taken a class before.

What is the best part about your involvement with OKC Improv as a board member, Katie?

OKC Improv fosters a truly inclusive, positive and enjoyable community that thrives on meaningful connections. The impact it has on individuals’ personal growth is remarkable. As a new mom transitioning from the corporate world, I sought an outlet for my creativity and a chance to meet new people.

From the very first classes, laughter and joy flooded back into my life, reawakening a sense of happiness I had long missed. Recently, I enrolled my company in Level 2 classes, and it became an extraordinary bonding experience. We could freely express our silliness and engage in playful banter without fear of judgment.

Katie, can you share one of your favorite stories about how improv has made a difference in someone’s life?

One remarkable story involves a student who, after being a devoted caretaker for his ill wife, took an improv class as a personal endeavor. It was his first self-indulgent activity in a long time, marking a moment of reconnecting with social life following his wife’s passing. Since then, he has reignited his passion for theater, actively performs in a troupe and has formed an entirely new community of friends. This illustrates how improv can change lives for the better.

Kendon, please tell our readers about the classes and camps OKC Improv offers.

Our classes run for eight weeks and are held four times throughout the year, catering to a wide range of interests and skill levels. From Beginning Level Improv to Advanced Level Improv, we provide comprehensive training opportunities. People can explore the realm of Musical Improv, where you create spontaneous song lyrics, or delve into Narrative Improv, crafting captivating plays or movies on stage.

For young enthusiasts aged 12-17, our Teen Improv Classes offer an engaging experience. Additionally, our annual Kids’ Improv Summer Camp provides a week-long adventure for ages 7-17. Each class and camp ends in a student showcase performance, guaranteeing a delightful experience for all.

We also offer specialized theater classes such as “Stage Combat” and “Theatre Basics” to enhance theatrical skills for individuals seeking broader training opportunities.

In addition to providing classes and shows, the foundation supports the community in a number of other ways. Tell us more about this.

The foundation hosts an annual blood drive with the Oklahoma Blood Institute and provides performance and veteran outreach opportunities with [our] house team FUBAR. We also partnered with the Homeless Alliance for our “Drop Your Drawers” drive in the Plaza District, when we were able to donate underwear to unhoused neighbors in the community. Finally, we offer private workshops and shows for businesses, birthday parties and more.  

Our community is always looking for different ways to enjoy life’s “luxuries” in our own backyard, such as going to an improv performance. Tell us about the shows.

Our shows offer an incredible amount of entertainment and variety. Each troupe brings a unique style to its performances, creating a diverse and captivating experience. From improvised musicals with a Broadway touch to narrative shows reminiscent of plays and movies, and even sketch comedy resembling the spirit of “Saturday Night Live,” our repertoire covers a wide spectrum of comedic genres.

A must-see is our monthly show, “The Swamp,” featuring a trio of talented actors and comedians from The Second City theater in Chicago. Most shows draw inspiration from audience suggestions, making them completely unpredictable and ensuring a delightful experience. Whether it’s a date night, friends’ gathering or a girls’ night out, our shows guarantee an unforgettable time filled with laughter.

You can catch our shows every Friday and Saturday at 7:30 pm and 9:30 p.m, with a special Squeaky-Clean Family-Friendly Comedy Show on the second Saturday of each month at 6 p.m. Visit our website, okcimprov.com, to view our calendar of upcoming shows and conveniently purchase tickets online. •

Kati Hanna has established an outstanding record of success as a partner with The Mettise Group, providing over two decades of consulting services to businesses in their growth stages. She has made a significant impact on hundreds of firms through her effective coaching, consulting and leadership development strategies. Her direct and innovative approach to problem solving has earned her a solid reputation as a reliable and valued advisor.