When I wrote about my return to the improv stage recently, I lied a little bit. I did do some improv while recovering from surgery. I went back to online improv.
Back when COVID hit, I fully embraced online improv. With no outlet for in-person shows, I performed, practiced and produced as much as I could. That is where Highwire started. I had an independent channel called Popup Improv that preceded that. I love what online improv did for me and so many other people.
My energy for performing online slowly faded away as I did more in-person events. We won't turn our backs on it as an organization, but I really only have time to produce our shows, not perform or practice regularly.
My medical leave changed that. Before surgery, I started poking around to find some opportunities. I didn't know if I had the energy for jams, but I knew classes would work. Enter WGIS (Will Hines' World's Greatest Improv School).
I took classes through Will even before WGIS had its official name, I think. I remember doing a workshop with him and the amazing Michelle Gilliam where I did one of my favorite scenes ever. It was weird and a dumbfounded Will just said "no notes." I will treasure that.
So I jumped at a chance to do one of his workshops as soon as it fit my schedule. Then I got a chance to do one with Billy Merritt. Those four hours helped feed my soul while I built up the energy to get back on stage. I also got a chance to play with new people, which is always fun.
The online improv world offers so much to so many people. I am glad I had these options when I needed them. I know I won't return to my 2020 levels of Zoomprov, but I love having the opportunity to get a fix when I need it.