Comedy Theater Code of Conduct

At Indie Prov Comedy, we strive to create a positive, supportive, and fun environment for everyone involved in our comedy classes. Whether you are a student, instructor, or part of our creative community, we believe in fostering an atmosphere where creativity, humor, and respect can thrive. Our Code of Conduct serves to ensure that every person feels safe, valued, and empowered as they grow in their craft.

1. Respect and Inclusivity

• Mutual Respect: Treat everyone with kindness, courtesy, and respect—students, instructors, and staff alike. Humor should bring people together, not divide them.

• Non-Discrimination: We celebrate diversity in all its forms. Discrimination, harassment, or offensive language based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, or any other personal characteristic is unacceptable.If you have any questions about this, ask.

• Inclusivity: Strive to create an inclusive environment. Embrace and support people from all backgrounds and experiences, ensuring everyone feels welcome and valued.

2. Professionalism and Accountability

• Punctuality and Preparation: Here at Indie Prov Comedy, we are not sticklers about punctuality. However, we appreciate mindfulness and consideration. Every participant is given a 10 minute grace period to arrive to class. If you need special consideration or will need to arrive much later than start time of class please give your fellow classmates and instructor a heads up.

• Active Participation: We all have our off days, but on the reg, comedy is an active, collaborative art form. Engage with others in a positive and supportive way, contributing to the learning and growth of the group.

• Accountability: Own your actions and behavior in class and during performances. If an issue arises, take responsibility and work to resolve it professionally and respectfully.

3. Collaboration and Creative Freedom

• Supportive Environment: Comedy thrives in an environment of mutual support and encouragement. Celebrate each other’s successes and perceived failures. This is a space for mistakes and imperfections, when one person wins we all win.

• Creative Freedom: Comedy is about experimenting, taking risks, and finding your unique voice. Embrace the opportunity to explore new ideas, characters, and styles. However, remember that humor should always be respectful and considerate of others and

• Constructive Criticism: We ask that participants hold off on giving each other constructive criticism; but encourage critical thinking in the spirit of learning. Please direct questions about someone else’s work to your instructor respectfully, and follow their guidance. When receiving feedback, be open to suggestions, listen. gracefully allow it to serve you to develop your skills further.

4. Safety and Well-being

• Physical and Emotional Safety: Our studio is a safe space for everyone. Be mindful of physical boundaries, and be sensitive to the emotional impact of your jokes, particularly in improvisational settings. Always prioritize consent and comfort.If you have questions about this, ask for guidance.

• Respectful Humor: Comedians can’t make everyone happy, but you must keep in mind that comedy within a learning context should bring joy and laughter, not harm or negative discomfort. Avoid humor that could be considered discriminatory, harmful, or offensive to others, especially regarding religion, race, sex and gender. Avoid jokes that sexualize your female counterparts and stay away from grey area topics with others whom you do not know and don’t have an established relationship with. If class participants step into sticky situations, your instructor will edit your scene accordingly, please don’t take this personally.

• Zero Tolerance for Harassment: Any form of harassment, bullying, or inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated. This includes delibertaley offensive jokes, comments, or actions directed at individuals, your instructor or groups within the class. Should an individual exhibit behavior that makes others feel unsafe, bullied or harassed, they will be asked to leave.

5. Respecting Class Time and Space

• Be Present: Focus on the class or performance at hand. Stay engaged and avoid distractions such as excessive phone use or side conversations while others are speaking.

• Clean and Organized Space: Respect the shared space. Keep it clean, tidy, and organized, ensuring that all props, equipment, and materials are used properly and returned to their rightful place.

• Use of Props and Equipment: Handle all props, costumes, and other equipment with care. If something is damaged or lost, report it to the instructor or staff member.

6. Positive Attitude and Growth Mindset

• Embrace the Process: Comedy is a journey that involves both successes and setbacks. Embrace the process of learning, and don't be afraid to fail—every mistake is an opportunity to grow.

• Encourage Others: Building a community of comedy enthusiasts means lifting each other up. Encourage your classmates, celebrate their successes, and be there to help when someone needs support.

• Maintain a Positive Attitude: A positive, can-do attitude is essential to the creative process. While we acknowledge that challenges will arise, it is important to remain open-minded, patient, and resilient.

7. Conflict Resolution

• Respectful Dialogue: If a conflict arises with a fellow student or instructor, address it respectfully and privately. Aim for understanding, and if needed, involve an instructor or studio manager for mediation.

• Solutions-Oriented: Approach conflicts with the goal of finding a solution. Focus on communication, collaboration, and maintaining the overall positive atmosphere of the group.

8. Ethical Behavior and Integrity

• Honesty: Be honest in your communication with others. Whether it’s about your availability, your level of comfort with a particular exercise, or your feedback, openness is key to a strong and trusting environment.

• Respect Intellectual Property: In comedy, originality is important. Be sure to respect others’ intellectual property and avoid copying jokes or material outside of class without proper credit.

9. Performance Etiquette

• Support Fellow Performers: Whether you’re on stage or in the audience, be supportive of your fellow students during performances and showcase events. Laughter, respect, and encouragement go a long way.

• On-Stage Behavior: If performing in a class or show, respect the audience and your fellow performers. Be mindful of timing, space, and your fellow actors. Keep it fun, engaging, and professional.