CLASSES FAQs:

IS THERE AN AUDITION FOR IMPROV CLASSES?

iO West does not hold auditions for its training programs. Anyone is welcome to enroll in our Improv &/or Writing classes.

WHAT IF I’M NOT AN ACTOR? ARE IMPROV CLASSES STILL FOR ME?

While improv training includes an acting component, and iO West teaches improvisation as a performance art, it is not necessary to be an experienced actor or performer to enroll. Basic knowledge of acting technique is helpful, but not required.

CAN I PLACE INTO A HIGHER LEVEL IF I HAVE IMPROV EXPERIENCE?

Typically, every incoming student starts at Level 1, regardless of prior experience. Due to the unique curriculum, vocabulary, and philosophy of the skills we teach, it is essential for all students to have a common foundation to their work. Some exceptions are made for students who are uniquely qualified for advanced placement, based on prior training and experience. If you wish to inquire about advanced placement, please email a current acting resume and training history to classes@iowest.com

CAN I BE “CUT” FROM THE PROGRAM?

There are no “cuts” as a part of iO training. At the end of each level, students are assessed by their current instructor and given a recommendation to advance or repeat. Students may repeat a level as many times as they wish. Tuition for repeated levels is 1/2 price.

HOW DO THE LEVELS & SESSIONS WORK?

Each class level consists of 8 weeks. Students meet once per week for eight consecutive weeks. At the end of the level, each student is evaluated by his/her instructor and recommended to advance or repeat the level.

WHAT IS THE ATTENDANCE POLICY?

Students are required to attend six out of their eight classes on their chosen day & time. More than two absences may result in the recommendation to repeat the level. In addition, students are required to see eight performances during their class level.

WHAT IS THE CLASS MAKE UP POLICY

Students may attend another day/time that their current level is held to make up for a missed class. In make up classes, students may participate only if the teacher permits, based on attendance.

WHAT IS THE PAYMENT POLICY?

Each 8 week session is $325.00. A minimum of $165.00 is due upon registration. Students who split payment into two halves must pay the remaining $160 by the fourth class or a late fee will be assessed. Payment is available online using PayPal, in person, or over the phone with a Visa or Mastercard.

IF I DROP THE CLASS, CAN I GET A REFUND?

No refunds are given under any circumstance. Full or partial tuition credit is given, depending on the time of cancelation. Tuition credit does not expire and may be applied to iO West classes and workshops.

IF I TOOK CLASS AWHILE AGO AND WANT TO TAKE AGAIN, WHERE SHOULD I START?

If it has been LESS than six months since the last class, students may enroll in whichever level they would next need to complete. (For example, if a student completed Level 2 and was advanced by his/her instructor, he/she may enroll in a Level 3 class)
If it has been MORE than six months since a student was last in class, he/she should repeat the last level in which he/she was enrolled. (For example, if a student completed Level 2 over a year ago, he/she is required to repeat Level 2 before advancing to Level 3)

For more info on class placement, contact the Director of the Training Center.

If you have any additional questions, please contact the Training Center:
Phone: (323)962.7560 or Email: classes@iowest.com