PSU Impro Ensemble

Open to students of all majors, the PSU Impro Ensemble (P.I.E.) is a dynamic group dedicated to the art of theatrical improvisation.

While you don't need to be a theater major to join, P.I.E. requires a strong commitment to regular rehearsals and frequent performances each quarter. In return, you will build invaluable skills in quick thinking, fearless collaboration, and creative problem-solving.

It is a highly rewarding way to hone your craft and connect with the community, as dedicated members regularly perform at campus events, regional festivals, and outreach initiatives throughout Portland.

Audition & Participation Information

Audition information is emailed through our Theater Arts listserv. Joining the listserv means you’ll receive emails from PSU Theater Arts faculty throughout the year about various theater opportunities. If you are not on the listserv but are interested in auditioning, please click the button below and select “Join group.”

Auditions to participate in P.I.E. during the coming year take place in Lincoln Hall at the end of the spring term of the current year. At the start of the spring term, this page will have a button linking to the sign-up form for auditions.

No preparation is required. Auditions are fun and spontaneous and treated like an improvisation workshop. Everyone engages in short-form improvisation games, techniques, and scene work in pairs and small groups.  

If you haven’t taken Improvisational Acting I (TA 241) or Improvisational Acting II (TA 343) at PSU but have improvisation and/or other performance experience, you should still audition; however, if selected, you will be encouraged to register for TA 241 in the Fall and/or TA 343 in the Spring. 

If you have any further questions, please contact Theresa Dudeck at tdudeck@pdx.edu. 

How to Audition

1. Sign up for an audition slot.
2. Come to the audition ready to improvise.

Notification Process

The ensemble coordinator will email students within a week after the last audition day whether they’re invited to join the ensemble.

Program Requirements

Practices are on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:10, which correspond with the course times of the courses listed below.

Performances

In addition to attending practice twice per week, students must participate in the ensemble performances:

• “Post-show Unscripted” performance during week 8 or 9 of each term
• Showcase/Performance during week 10 of each term
• Several P.I.E. hosted shows, jams, and/or outreach events each term. These will be scheduled at the beginning of each term.

Courses

Participants are required to enroll in one of these 1-credit courses each term, depending on class standing:

• TA 199 SPST: IMPRO ENSEMBLE (1 credit)
• TA 399 SPST: IMPRO ENSEMBLE (1 credit)

Ensemble photos by Luna Delvaux.