Stumbling upon a BAME improv night was encouraging as somebody new to the scene, as I was able to watch experienced performers who looked like me and whose content was often more relatable than the main circuit.

My anxiety evaporated in that room. My stage fright transformed into excitement, and I became dynamic, more spontaneous. Happier.

I felt empowered and energised. So much so that I took the next course level and did my first public performance.

I can confidently attest to how much I’ve grown and how grateful I am for the friends I’ve made. Improv is transformative.

The supportive atmosphere ensures that even complete beginners will have the confidence to grow their skills

Hoopla's workshops are supportive and collaborative.

Improv can be transformative and thanks to the work of a few dedicated black women, the scene is opening up and becoming more inclusive.

In one class, I laughed so hard that I cried, full-on shaking with laughter, as tears streamed down my face.

The workshop really helps you internalise some of the skills we all know are important, like really listening, not dismissing others’ ideas out of hand and allowing yourself to speak up.

The finest off-the-cuff troupes on the circuit.

Thanks for the workshop. All the feedback has been extremely positive! The team loved it!

I now regularly try to make room for improv and play time in my life. It is a bright spot when I am feeling beaten down by the everyday. The three hours of laughter do wonders for my stress levels, and afterwards I sleep without a care.

The capital’s best improv. The UK’s first improv comedy club.

If improvisation floats your boat you should head to Hoopla. There’s fewer better ways to see what spur-of-the-moment comedy London has to offer.

Signing up for improv classes helped my shyness to melt away.

Teaches the skills you’ll need to master scenes, stories and sketches in a relaxed environment.

Everywhere you look, huge grins suggest an enthusiasm and an attentiveness that is rarely seen in a course.