Improv changes lives.
Extraordinary things happen when we agree to jump into the unknown together. Walking onto a stage trusting that you have your collaborators' support is Improv's equivalent to that jump. Excused Absence Comedy is working to increase access to Improv classes, camps, and performances for Central Texas youth by raising funds to support a need-based scholarship program.
Why support Improv for Youth? There's more to unscripted, collaborative comedy than you might realize.
Sure, there are quick-witted improvisers... But Improv itself isn’t about snappy comebacks or fast thinking. The value of our work comes from an emphasis on listening, supporting collaborators' ideas, and responding truthfully to the situation in front of us. The result is increased confidence, communication, insight, and original ideas that surprise you again and again. Just as important? We make ourselves laugh and connect with others in surprising and deeply rewarding ways.
Though Excused Absence has successfully offered camps and classes in Austin since 2007, we are limited in the number of students we serve by the very real increases in the cost of doing business in Austin. In order to afford locations for our events and to provide teaching artists with fair wages, we have stopped our pre-pandemic policy of reserving spots for non-paying students.
This campaign's goal is to create a scholarship fund for kids and teens who, without financial assistance, could not participate. By donating, you help provide a young person the chance to connect with peers in an extraordinary and confidence-boosting way. Learning to walk out on stage with nothing, knowing that the people around you won't ever let you fail, makes navigating the rest of the world far less scary.
Before every Improv show, Improvisers take a moment to say "Got your back" to every person in the cast. The risk of sharing, creating, and communicating is neutralized for performers who know they are supported from start to finish. It's an experience that impacts the student's navigation of the world. You don't have to be perfect, you just have to listen and say "Yes! And..."
We ask that you help us make this experience available to young people for whom it would otherwise not be possible. When you donate, you will receive updates on specific projects and camps that include scholarship recipients. We want you to see the impact that the ideas and practices of Improv can have.
By contributing to the Excused Absence Scholarship fund, you help us provide a unique and important creative experience for youth who otherwise might not have the opportunity. Specifically, we hope to provide both full and partial scholarships for up to 15 students during the 2023 class and camp seasons. Thank you for your consideration and support!
Thank you!
