As the spring semester reaches the midterm point for American River College students, it can be an anxious and stressful period. In the midst of papers, exams and projects, the ARC Improv Club welcomes students to join as they practice their improv skills, regardless of major. 

The campus’s Improv Club started in the early 2000s with a group of students who were passionate about improv and wanted a space where they could practice the art, according to Pamela Downs, ARC’s theater director.

Over 20 years later, the club is still going strong and members relish in the laughs that form every time the club meets. 

“Everyone brings good energy and I wouldn’t be as happy as I am without this club,” Nico Taheny, president of the Improv Club said.  

While it does help to have previous knowledge about improv, it is not necessary to join the club. Anyone is welcome to join and participate no matter what field you are studying. 

“I am a business major with no previous improv experience, but the improv club gives me freedom to express myself,” Jayla Mussro, treasurer for the Improv Club said. 

The club provides everyone a safe space and a chance to express themselves in a positive environment while practicing the art of improv. It helps with anxiety and allows students to leave their comfort zone without feeling pressure. 

“Anyone can come and watch to see how it goes, and when they feel comfortable they can jump into one of our games,” Downs said. 

The club meets every other Thursday at 5:30 p.m. in Room 515 in the theater arts building. The room fills with games, laughs and positive energy for an hour while learning different improv skills. 

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