I took online Improv 101 with Shana from mid July to August and I can attest to how amazing this course is. The biggest thing I took out of this class is how improv is not only beneficial for actors but that it applies to anyone living an everyday normal life and how important/therapeutic being present and in the moment can be. Shana was very nice, patient and fun which made the nervousness of taking improv that less scary. I recommend this course highly

Early on Sunday my partner asked me if I wanted to grab a drink while we waited on a few friends to venture over from the city. Well, I am not one to turn down a drink, especially with my S/O, so I quickly agreed. He said he wanted the best Bloody Mary in our area and could I find the place. I love a challenge. I was like, Yeah, I got you, get ready and lets go to my secret spot.Merlin Works

Ive had a long career as a television writer/producer, but a million years ago I used to do improv, and wanted to get back into. I was nervous and, frankly, a little scared.I pretty much chose Merlin Works at random. I am so happy that I did. Shana Merlin has created a wonderful environment where you safely learn to risk. No matter what your level or expertise, you will be welcomed both by the teachers and the other students. Everyone works together, and the vibe is generous. Its like a creative garden where all is nourished, and everything blooms naturally. Ive been stimulated and inspired, and I can already see how my experiences at Merlin Works is transferring in positive ways to other aspects of my life. The ability of the teachers to impart their knowledge and bring the students along is impressive.

Great way to push yourself to new social comforts. We all need help to get outside of ourselves and Merlin Works is a magnificent vehicle for this. Great instructors who genuinely love this artform. I really found a place to play and grow that I did not think myself capable. I had 6 different instructors (2 per class) and each had a distinct style, not a cookie cutter platform here. Sign up and have fun. No one is judging you, and you should not judge yourself. Fail with a smile, because we all do!

Learn to love something new by doing something impossible. Shana Merlin and the wizards of improvisation at Merlin Works will teach you to love the moment, forget the future and have fun where you are. This should be a mandatory class at every level of education and Shana should be the Improv Czar! Seriously, Shana makes you feel safe while you are doing things you told yourself you could never do, all while making you look like a genius. Go to push yourself, go to chase your fear, stay for the friendship and camaraderie, because when the classes are over, you will have a whole new group of best friends. Two university degrees, the US Army, nor competitive team sport, helped me bond so fast with a group of strangers. Do it! Best money you will spend in ten years.

I have been taking Merlin works classes for more than 5 years and keep coming back for more! Merlin Works is an exceptional organization for teaching improv related activities, entertaining and just having fun! Shana Merlin is an amazing leader who brings deep experience and exacting organizational skills to her business. Her curricula are very well thought out and have been refined over years of experience and whole lot of happy students. You will be glad you joined a Merlin works class or had the Merlin Works Team run one of your corporate events!!

Shana is awesome! Loved her class and all the friends I made there! Cant wait to take more of her classes

These classes have been absolutely incredible! The friends Ive made, the business skills Ive honed and the opportunity to perform; what more could you ask for?!

Dont think about improv training as something you should do if you want to be an better actor, think of improv training as a way to be a *better person.* I took classes from Shana over a decade ago and I still use the ideas in my everyday life as a business professional, a friend, and a spouse. These programs are about how to tell stories, how to perceive others, and how you are perceived.Contact Merlin Works, youll be happy you did!

For eight weeks at a time, once per week for 2.5 hours, I got to be completely in the moment and outside of my own head. I made friends with some wonderful people (and great improvisers!), and enjoyed the curriculum, content, format, basically everything. Id recommend MerlinWorks to anyone whos ever been curious about Improv and is looking for a safe space to test the waters.

Okay, this may be a bit dramatic (I learned it from improv!) but Merlin Works changed my life. It provided me with an outlet to be completely myself and also pumped me up about pushing my limits all at a pace in which I was comfortable with. I started in 2008 and have on and off been taking classes over and over again with Merlin Works since. Their curriculum and their teachers are perfection. Ive met literally hundreds of people because of it and have recommended this school to several of my friends who thank me for doing so. Im currently job searching and while its a process, I have improv to thank for feeling so secure with myself and confident in expressing my skills and traits (being an improviser is one of those that goes far in interviews!) I LOVE MERLIN WORKS!

I just wrapped up singing Improv 101-301 at Merlin Works, and I couldn’t be happier with my experience. I highly recommend!

Being the father-in-law of Shana Merlin, Im biased. I havent taken any classes, but have been amazed at the originality of her ensemble performances.

Merlin Works has wonderful improv teachers, who helped me feel safe, have fun, and truly learn the wonderful art of improv! Techniques, skills, and strategies are clearly explained and practiced step by step. And improv itself has enhanced every part of my life.

Felt I was not welcomed by partner and was treated differently than others. The classmates were the saving grace

Merlinworks is mindbendingly awesome. Get ready to have your world rocked, and sign up for an improv class.Peace.

Some of the best improv education and artistry Austin, TX has to offer.

Best improv classes in Austin in my opinion.