CSz Richmond

Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Instructor: Brendan O’Brien
Duration: 8 weeks + Showcase
Where: CSz Richmond Training Center
When: Thursdays starting Sep. 25

Dive into Longform with Brendan O'Brien

Are you ready to level up your improv by going beyond games and scenes? Step into the world of longform with Brendan O’Brien, and discover the thrill of building something bigger, bolder, and more connected — one scene at a time.

“Dive into Longform” is an 8-week intensive designed for improvisers who want to explore rich characters, dynamic relationships, and narrative cohesion without the safety net of pre-set games. In this class, you’ll learn the core principles and techniques that power longform structures — from the classic Harold to montage formats to grounded narrative arcs — all while sharpening your ability to listen, support, and elevate every scene.

What you'll explore:

• Scene work as the foundation of form: Learn to open, sustain, and heighten grounded, character-driven scenes that stand on their own or support a larger piece.
• Relationship-based storytelling: Move beyond quick laughs and into emotionally compelling, connected play that drives longform structure.
• Group mind & ensemble chemistry: Cultivate the trust and timing needed to make organic edits, callbacks, and thematic connections.
• Playing patterns and finding game: Discover how repeated behaviors and scenic “games” can unify a set and delight an audience.
• Discovering the format through play: Try out multiple longform formats, with a focus on letting the form serve the players—not the other way around.
• Heighten, revisit, evolve: Use tags, walk-ons, time jumps, and transformations to tell stories that are surprising, satisfying, and theatrical.

This class is a playground for improvisers who want to deepen their skills, take creative risks, and build shows from the ground up. Brendan O’Brien brings a wealth of experience, a deep love for ensemble work, and an energetic, encouraging teaching style that challenges players to be brave, thoughtful, and hilarious.

Whether you're interested in narrative arcs, montage play, or ensemble synergy, this class will give you the tools, vocabulary, and reps to take your longform to the next level. The course culminates in a live longform performance where you’ll get to show off your ensemble’s unique voice and stye.

Who should take this class: