Try out improv workshop on Monday

Bill Russell, actor, teacher and director with more than 30 years experience, will offer four weeks of fun with "Improv" at Abby's Breakfast and Lunch, 11 N. Third St., Suite B, in St. Charles. Not sure if improv is for you, then start with a fun evening Monday, Feb. 6, where for $10 you can see what it's all about. This introduction begins at 6:45 p.m.

Improv can improve your public speaking and interpersonal communication skills. Want to be more creative or learn to generate ideas on the spot? Do you feel anxious in public and suffer from fear of embarrassment and failure? You don't need to be funny to participate since this is nonperformance improv.

Russell currently teaches at the Comedy Shrine Theater, Fox Valley Repertory's Performing Arts Academy and do-over.me. He performed with the Chicago Improv troupe "Spontaneous Combustion" for over 15 years.

The four-week session begins at 6:45 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13. Areas of focus will include active listening skills, exploring ideas, working as an ensemble, and improv's core tenet of "Yes And." This program is designed to be relevant for everyone. It will improve your interactions in the workplace and at home.

The cost of this four-week workshop is $99. It includes one alcoholic beverage and fresh pizza; additional beverages are available for $5. You can sign up and pay at the introduction on Feb. 6 or online at www.do-over.me/registering-for-events. You must be registered and the fee paid before the first class Feb. 13.