I had a blast taking improv here. I was scared to death approaching the building for my first class. But then the instructor got us playing improv games and I found out that in improv a person has to focus on the here and now. That took away my nervousness because I forgot about myself while paying close attention to what my scene partners were going to say or do next. And there were so many outbreaks of laughter! I highly recommend Merlin Works for learning to communicate clearly, focusing on the present moment, building confidence, thinking on your feet, teamwork, and having more fun than one human being usually has in eight weeks. read more

I highly recommend Merlin Works, the instructors are amazing, helpful and caring, it's hard to admit failure but the class and the instructors make it much easier, there seems to be a no judgement zone which helps build success. They know how to build a team environment. You don't have to be into theater or comedy to enjoy this class, but if you are looking to improve yourself at work or at home or even with your friends, this class does it. Thanks for an experience of a lifetime. read more

Paid for 5 classes but was only allowed to attend one because of their dubious billing model. That class is the reason for the star, if there were more classes, would have given more stars, but one star when paid for five and only allowed to attend 1. read more

Shana, Thanks for following up on my review. As I stated, I thought the class was good and would recommend it to anyone looking into improv in Austin. I just don't feel I could in good conscience support or continue my association with it. I also did look into other classes in the Austin area and did indeed find that all of them I looked into also had "diversity agreements." So, I have not continued any further improv classes anywhere. To the fact that you note, "You'll find that every improv school in Austin--and almost every improv school in the country... requires similar guidlines," unfortunately you have fallen into the Argumentum ad populum or appeal to the the majority fallacy. The argument that implies that a proposition must be true because many or most people believe it . You also note that "If I feel that agreeing to avoid racism, sexism, and other forms of bigotry amounts to censorship, then we'll agree to disagree." I do respectfully disagree. Free speech is always centered on allowing speech that one may disagree with. If we only allow speech that we agree with, it's not free speech, it's just agreement. To quote the great actor, Leo McKern, "It is easy to believe in freedom of speech for those with whom we agree." Jurist Henry Louis Gates Jr., "Censorship is to art as lynching is to justice." George Orwell, "If liberty means anything at all, it means the right to tell people what they do not want to hear." Thank you for the follow-up. read more

Awesome Improv 101 class! A great place to learn how to get out of your head and be in the moment.

Don't think about improv training as something you should do if you want to be an better actor, think of improv training as a way to be a *better person.* I took classes from Shana over a decade ago and I still use the ideas in my everyday life as a business professional, a friend, and a spouse. These programs are about how to tell stories, how to perceive others, and how you are perceived. Contact Merlin Works, you'll be happy you did! read more

The classes at Merlin Works are outstandingly fun! I started practicing improv a year ago in Merlin Work's 101 class. I was initially a little scared about the prospect of trying improv in front of my classmates but Shana ensures the environment remains comfortable and encourages you to stretch yourself and make mistakes. My teachers at Merlin Works, I've only had Shana and Ted, have both been outstanding. Not only are they exceptional improvisers but they both demonstrate higher knowledge about the art and creative ways to help the students grow. Plus they are always entertaining to be around! If you are considering taking improv classes, I highly recommend taking them here. Don't be afraid if you are not good at acting-I'm horrible-or if you're scared about the performing in front of others. The 101 class eases students into improv with entertaining group games. And the teachers here are the best. I highly recommend it to anyone who is curious! read more

Three years ago I shakily and scared out of my mind in fight or flight mode walked into a Merlin Works 101 class - and today I've taken all nine classes Merlin Works offers and perform regularly in a musical improv troupe. Great place to get introduced to improv. Great teachers (Joplin, Kevin M., Ted, Lacey, Shana , Aden, Quinn) - great method - great fellow students. I met people I never would have met otherwise in imrpov (including my boyfriend). It's a crazy supportive environment - I mean the teachers laugh at everything you do - everyone is kind. I keep waiting for the facade to break but it never does (or hasn't yet and I'll update this when it does). Highly recommended. read more

My teachers (Michael, Shana and a few subs: Quinn, Kevin and Jason) have all been amazing! I have had a blast so far in 101 and 201 and am looking forward to learning and practicing even more in 301 this summer. The classes have been great to help you build the fundamentals and "toolkit" needed to do improv. I love the "YES, AND" mentality that also helps in others areas of life as well. I'm planning to implement icebreakers and names games in to a group of college students I work with so I know it will also have a positive effect on my work. If you are looking to do something really fun, joyful, positive and meet great people, improv is a great class to take - and you can take one or more depending on your interest level. read more

I love me some Shana Merlin. I have taken improv classes in LA, Boston and in Austin, and I would have to say that Shana is my favorite teacher. Her basic improv curriculum is solid, and she creates a really open and safe environment. She makes it absolutely okay to try something new. She also does a phenomenal job of teaching the skills you need to be a good improviser. I especially like her series on Long Form Narrative, which I really don't think you can get anywhere else. The other teachers at Merlinworks are great as well. They have a curriculum, and they always have a plan for your class. Great people, you learn a lot, and it's really fun. Improv classes are a great way to meet people, and to just have a blast. read more

Are you interested in improv? Are you a human being? Do you love to laugh and learn and open up new, confident parts of yourself? If the answer is a resounding yes to any of the above, then you'll want to attend classes at Merlin Works. This improv school employs fantastic teachers who will enhance you in the best ways possible. Whether you wish to make people laugh onstage, concisely think on your feet in public, or speak to a room confidently, their techniques via improvisation will provide. Thanks Merlin Works! Shout out to Shana! Sup. read more

First things first: Improv is the most efficient therapy you'll find. It's good for the soul, even if you never wanna perform for an audience. Just taking classes will improve so much about your life. And Merlin Works is one of the best options in town. The instructors are seasoned pros who are still enthusiastic about improv, and this, won't ever talk over your head. It's at the Zach Scott, which is lovey and centrally located. The curriculum has been honed over many years and hundreds of students. You'll be pushed, but never uncomfortably so. Highly recommended. read more

I've never been one for acting and I always thought it was kind of a dorky thing to do. I haven't taken part an improv class or participated in something like this before so I joined with a lot of anxiety and number of reservations joining. However, this has been, by far, one of the most fun experiences I've had in quite some time. The classes were all extremely enjoyable and the instructor had great input and messages throughout the various activities over the weeks. I highly recommend this experience even to those adverse to the idea of participating in improv. You will draw enjoyment from it. read more

Shana Merlin was my first improv teacher in 2005, and I still send beginners to her school because her classes are a safe place to play, very fun and well very structured. I was so scared when I started improv, I had to pretend that instead of going to class, I was going to party where the party games were great. And that's the atmosphere Shana and her teachers create. If you want to get out of your shell, have fun with others, and find out how funny you are, I highly recommend Merlin Works classes. They changed my life. I have been performing improv and sketch comedy for years now, and I thank Shana for helping me find the skills and confidence to get out on a stage again and play. read more

For the sake of transparency, I am a teacher at Merlin Works. Having said that, I will share that lots of students have told me that we have top notch curriculum and structure. Students consistently refer their friends for classes (probably the best endorsement). I can say from personal experience that the staff at Merlin Works truly cares about our students and strive to give them an amazing experience. We make it a point to build relationships with the folks that choose to take classes with us. In addition, the student showcases are always in front of packed houses who leave exhausted from all of the laughter. That wouldn't happen unless students were well trained and well taken care of by the faculty along the way. I love Merlin Works and I think you will too! :-) read more

I took the 'free intro' at 3 different places and got the impression that this place was more diverse in age instead of all 20-somethings (nondiscriminatory voice) - And was thankfully right! I have a hard time in classroom settings but we're always moving, keeping it interesting, and time flies so all good for my A.D.D. self. We're sorta paying to be kids again. ; } But it's challenging too. Shana and Ricky (assist) are a blast and i couldn't ask for more helpful and easy going teachers. P.s. Shana (if u see this), if i look super tired or my eyes are closed at times, it's because of the florescent (?) lights, not u... almost as if i'm allergic. read more

I'll never forget my experience at Merlin Works. Shana was recommended to me by several veteran improvisers as "the best in town" and I was not disappointed. I've taken seven classes with her and her staff in the last five years and each session has been the highlight of my week. Fast forward to years later and I am now teaching improv and performing all over town thanks to her training. Her lessons are thought of each time I take the stage. But...the best thing about MW and Shana Merlin is that you don't have to be interested in performing to get the most out of it. In fact, I think most people who take improv classes are just interested in having fun, building confidence, and being creative - not necessary looking to perform in front of audiences. Shana's style and philosophy appeals to anyone taking the class. There's not a soul that I know who thought MW classes "weren't for them". She creates a wonderful, fun, and successful environment. Trust me, you will not be disappointed. read more

Very fun, supportive teachers, and classes! They help eliminate the fear of performing. I've taken the improv and musical improv classes. Although, you don't have to be a good singer. It's all about, in a way, being a kid again. Doing what used to come naturally. Being spontaneous, joyful and playful. With some class structure and encouragement. Also, lots of parking at Zach theater where the classes are held. read more

I bought improv lessons for my 12 year old nephew, for a birthday gift. He didn't go into detail, but he really enjoyed the group classes.

I took an improvised singing class at Merlin Works and had an absolute blast. Aden Kirschner taught the class with great wisdom and humor. By the last class, I felt confident putting on an entire musical complete with dance numbers! read more

I cannot recommend Merlin Works highly enough! Shana Merlin is a delight to work with and learn from. Whether or not you are interested in performing, I believe that everyone should take improv classes. The lessons that you learn and the fun that you have through playing with others in the safe and welcoming environment that Merlin Works creates, will improve your overall quality of life and have a significant impact on the happiness that your experience in your everyday. You will expand your creativity, sharpen your communication skills, become aware of and overcome negative judgements of yourself and others, and most of all have a blast while doing so! read more

This program is great! I signed up for improv 201 with Lacey S., and she was amazing. There is NO reason to be shy or worry about doing something wrong - everything is a learning experience. If there's a learning opportunity for a student, the teacher will stop the exercise and deep dive into figuring out the "why" of the situation: then study other options and run it by the whole group. I'm super excited to start 301 in January- we get to put on a performance!!!! Thanks Merlin Works!!!!! read more

I've taken all three of Merlin Works' singing improv classes, and I loved all of them! The instructors took a very scary subject (getting up on stage and singing completely made up songs) and made it very accessible and easy to take risks. I also made some great friends in the classes. They're small group sessions, and everyone was super-supportive. I had a little improv experience before I started, but for many of my classmates it was the first time they had done any improv at all, and they all loved it! Definitely worth giving it a try! read more

The classes at the Merlin Works improv school are FUN!! Shana Merlin has created a robust curriculum with focused direction and cohesion. The curriculum is reinforced by a variety of experienced improvisers/teachers who give students the tools needed improve their improv skills in a fun, supportive learning environment. I highly recommend taking classes with Merlin Works. read more

This has been such a wonderful part of my life. I am currently in my 4th class because I can't get enough of the fun and laughs. The teacher's are hilarious and want you to let go and have fun with them. I am grateful Merlin Works was recommended to me and would encourage anyone that is interested in learning how to improvise and/or looking to have an opportunity to let your guard down and be free to play look into this place. read more

Based at the Salvage Vanguard Theatre, Shana Merlin's "Merlin Works" delivers a sometimes free, always fun experience. In her classes you'll learn about improv comedy, living in the moment, spontaneity, scene work and other yummy things. I highly recommend her classes! Well worth the money and time investment. read more

Merlin Works has been one of the best choices to reclaim my sense of play, curiosity, and risk. Everyone involved in Merlin Works - the instructors, fellow classmates, support staff have created a supportive and fun atmosphere. Great way to break out of the dullness of life and reclaim joy. Every class built up skills and confidence. I've gone through 101-601 and would do it again in a heartbeat! read more

Shana's classes are a blast! She has developed so many games for students to play and what she teaches can be applied to communication in everyday life. read more

Shana is hands down one of the most phenomenal teachers I've ever had. She is supportive and patient, and completely hilarious. Take her class!!! read more

Merlin works is fun, therapeutic and inspirational. You set out to learn one set of skills and a whole set of life skills that you didn't know we're coming starts tumbling down on you. This all happens while you're laughing, and being cheered for your mistakes. Where else do you get that? The teachers are great. Shana Merlin has created a handbook that breaks down and organizes improv acting in a format that makes it accessible and digestible. I guess you could say that I value Merlin Works and feel grateful to them. It's a good place to go if you start taking yourself seriously. read more

Shana is a born teacher. She thinks carefully about curriculum, hires great teachers (shout outs to Aden, Ted, and Lacy), and creates an incredibly fun, supportive environment. I even took the musical improv classes, which believe you me I wouldn't ever have imagined. Shana particularly likes to teach 101 classes herself, which says a lot about her delight in welcoming students and gives her a direct relationship with every student. Since finishing at Merlin Works, I've taken other classes and workshops in Austin. While I've enjoyed them, I'm always glad I started at MW. I'm not sure I would have stayed in improv without the confidence the teachers there gave me and I continue to rely on the skills and thorough grounding they provided. Whether you're planning to perform on stage or just want to dip your toes into improv, I can't recommend Merlin Works more highly. read more

Merlin Works classes are so much fun and they've clearly designed their curriculum to get everyone to forget whatever self-consciousness they came in with and join in and create scenes with each other. My initial fears were forgotten within minutes of the first class starting. They create such a positive and supportive atmosphere. You find yourself doing things you never thought you could do. I made a lot of new friends in their classes, too. Shana is a terrific teacher, as well as Michael Joplin and Ted Rutherford -- they clearly know how to attract great teachers. The classes prepare you for all kinds of performing -- I'm performing in two bands now and film acting -- the experience with Merlin Works helped me get over my fears about performing in general. read more

MW classes are just awesome!!! I have never had that much fun (sans the first class when my heart was racing with fear for not knowing what to expect) and I never laughed as hard as I have in those classes. You can't help but take some risks in the classes and you will pleasantly surprise yourself. With much practice and having fun with it, "Thinking on your feet" will come more naturally to you (I had originally joined the class as I saw myself as a conformist and wanted to a more impromptu kind of guy). 100% ROI. YES! YES! YES! :) read more

I've taken the Merlin works classes twice now. I have been absolutely thrilled with how fun and informative they are. The staff is extremely knowledgeable, friendly and fun. If you're apprehensive to take an improv class because you don't know what to expect, just do it. It's more fun than you could ever imagine. The first course is titled "the spirit of play" and that is exactly what you'll learn. It's the one place you can go every week and just leave your worries behind, play and have fun. But while you are having fun, you are learning skills like listening, quick thinking, public speaking that are useful in everyday life. I know there are cheaper classes out there, but in my humble opinion you get what you pay for. Merlin Works has the best curriculum in Austin. The staff is also very well organized and professional and know how to deliver a top notch educational experience. read more

I cannot say enough good things about my improv 101 experience. Shana does a great job of breaking the ice and getting everyone involved. The first few classes can be nerve wracking but once you get to know everyone it gets to be a very fun class. By the end of the classes my face would hurt from either laughing or smiling so much. Highly recommend if you are looking to try something new! read more

merlin works and its brilliant queen bee, shana merlin, initiated me into the world of improve more than six years ago, and my life has never been the same. after countless suggestions that i try my hand at improv over the years, i signed up for a merlin works class in early 2009. having not read the fine print very well, i was surprised to realize that a class on improvised singing is not necessarily recommended for novices, but everyone accepted me with open arms. to this day, people tell me they still remember my song from the very first class ("new shoes, here on my feet./my new shoes are really, really neat.") six years, who-knows-how-many classes, and four or five graduation shows later, i am honored to be able to write a review about how incredibly, supremely, indescribably awesome merlin works is. it's so awesome, my wife and i even asked shana to officiate our wedding, which she did, and it too was awesome! i'm just going to paste the word "awesome" a bunch of times now. awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome superb awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome groovy awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome spectacular awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome capra-esque awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome tubular awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome pants-wettingly-brilliant awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome are you really still reading this? awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome wankel rotary engine awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome boobies boobies boobies boobies awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome awesome and a partridge in a pear tree. read more

I had the best time taking Improv class with Merlin Works! Each week I laughed until I cried- so much fun (and so much cheaper than therapy). I am still in touch with my classmates, and plan to sign up for more classes. Great, thorough and entertaining education which introduced me to the wonderful world of Improv....Yes and..... read more

Whether you dream of a life onstage or not, improv will change your life. Through Merlin Works, I learned more about how to live life with more ease and peace, how to laugh at myself when I blunder, how to give up having control all the time and accept the gifts that others share. If you are ready to change your life and open yourself up to a world of fun and happiness, take an improv class at Merlin Works. You will never regret it. read more

Improv is better than therapy or Internet dating. You will learn more about yourself in one class (control issues especially) than a year of therapy. If you are looking for love, you will learn more about the people in your class than on any kind of e-harmony. Given all that, Merlin Works is a great way to get it done. Fun and spontaneous, but with an underlying method that helps folks break down boundaries and find the performer within them. I highly recommend Merlin Works! read more

Shana's operation is solid gold! If you're interested in improv in Austin, start here. She's a great teacher who creates a group container for safety, laughs, learning, story telling, and remembering how to play and be human together. Do it! read more