Studies on improv and play

At Improving Playfully, we don’t just “play games.” We use the latest insights from neurobiology and behavioural science to create a high-efficiency learning environment. It doesn’t matter you are a corporate leader or a shy beginner, your brain is biologically wired to grow faster when it’s having fun.

Research shows that improv offers many psychological benefits. These range from activating creativity, boosting brain connectivity to developing psychological safety in teams, decreasing stress and anxiety, and many more. 

But don’t just take our word for it. Scroll down to find links to actual studies supporting these claims.

Boost creativity and innovation

By embracing the unexpected and thinking on your feet, you unlock new pathways to innovation in your personal and professional life.

Enhance communication skills

Impro sharpens your ability to express ideas clearly and listen actively. Improved communication fosters better relationships, both socially and in the workplace.

Develop emotional intelligence

Research suggests that participation in improvisation correlates with increased emotional intelligence. Gain a deeper understanding of emotions, yours and others', leading to more meaningful connections.

Supported by science

Supported by science

While improv theatre benefits are often discussed anecdotally, scientific research has explored the cognitive, emotional, and social impacts. Here are some benefits of improvisation theatre with references to scientific sources:

 

Scientific studies provide valuable insights, but improv is best to be experienced in real-time, so personal experiences and anecdotes can also be powerful indicators of its benefits.

20minutes of improv is enough to measurably boost creativity, mood, and comfort with uncertainty.
Felsman et al., 2020, University of Michigan

19%increase in divergent thinking after a single improv session, vs a matched social control group
Felsman, Gunawardena & Seifert, 2020

350adolescents showed significant reductions in social anxiety after a 10-week improv programme..
Felsman, Seifert, Himle, 2019

Which course is best for you?

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PUBLIC COURSES

  • Different experience options
  • Focus on spontaneity,
    mindfulness, connection,
    character development, 
    storytelling, self-confidence,
    self-efficacy, and more.
  • Location: Reykjavík
  • Max. 16 participants
  • Unions refund up to 90%
  • Your first session is FREE!
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BUSINESS WORKSHOPS

  • Tailored workshops to your needs
  • Experiential learning
  • Elevate creativity, presentation skills, innovative thinking, adaptability …  
  • Structured debriefing for integration
  • Variety of group sizes 
  • Location: Reykjavík/your business
  • FREE personal meeting to discuss your needs and wishes.
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Impressions from
our sessions

Teja is an incredible instructor: present, thoughtful, well-prepared, supportive, empathetic, kind, and extremely skilled. Classes are fun and well crafted. It’s more than just impro games—it’s lessons in living an open and full life.
CANDACE BERTOTTI
Having done impro before, I was unsure about signing up and doubted whether I would be able to do impro in English and what it would be like. Teja makes sure the space is safe and everyone is comfortable being there. I'm glad I signed up and I'm eagerly waiting for level 2.
FERNANDA FAJARDO
Teja's impro classes were very playful and structured at the same time and as a teacher Teja is very gentle and good at sensing where each student is at and how far she can push them.
TINNA ÞORVALDS ÖNNUDÓTTIR
Playful. Creative. Centering. Through fun practices my inner kid was reignited with passion and full engagement for creation, action and spontaneity. It was liberating.
IVAN ERCEGOVIĆ
I really enjoyed the improv class! This class wasn't just about learning improv, it created a sense of community and left me feeling energized and ready to learn more!
AMANDINE BUGLI
Teja's impro classes were an unforgettable experience of my inner child — revealing the layers of humor and joy I hold dearly. Beyond grateful for her skilled and talented nature. 🫶🏼
ANJA PAPUGA
I had a really great experience in Teja's impro classes. I haven't done anything like this before, so I was a bit apprehensive going in, but Teja was able to make a safe space. Her teaching style is thoughtful and lessons were well prepared and structured. Thank you for the lessons Teja!
STEVE