A Word from our directors

IMPRO Amsterdam is a huge endeavor, and that means it takes a couple of weeks for me to process the experience.

My first IMPRO Amsterdam happened a few months after I moved to the Netherlands from the US. I had already been to many festivals, seen and performed a lot of improv, and I thought I knew what to expect. Instead, I saw shows that exploded my view of what unscripted theatre could be. I met people that remain friends to this day. I learned from teachers whose insights still guide my own teaching and practice. I felt like I was really a part of the festival community.

My goal with IMPRO Amsterdam has always been to create that same experience for others.

In the weeks following the festival, I've had the opportunity to reflect on the shows, the new friends, this special community that only exists for eight days a year but feels just as real and important as the communities I'm a part of year-round. I said it on closing night, and I stand by it - the festival becomes a family, and I am so grateful to be a part of it. There are many parts of that family - the production team, who I spend all year with working to create a warm, inspiring space; the performers, teachers, jam hosts, and other contributors who bring their vision and talent; and just as important, everyone who comes to participate, because the festival is truly for you. 

I loved all of our shows. I loved our cast. I loved our volunteers, our team. But what sticks with me most, sitting here writing this now, are the conversations with workshop-goers and audience members brimming with excitement and inspiration from what they discovered. It's meeting people coming back to their second (or more) festival because they want to see their festival family again, too. It's talking to audience members who have never seen unscripted theatre before and who don't quite believe it's possible, even after experiencing it. It's seeing people having the same experience I had at my first IMPRO Amsterdam, seeing their perception of what's possible blooming and growing, experiencing that community and understanding that they are a very real part of it.

So, thank you again, to all of you. You are why we do the work to make the festival as good as it can be. The next month or two will be a much-needed break, but we are already brimming with excitement and energy, and a big part of that, for me, is getting to bring the family back together again for eight more days of creativity and community next year. It's truly a privilege. 

You wonderful community!

It's been a few weeks since the best week of the year and my heart is still full. 

I've been involved with this beautiful festival for over 10 years in almost every role imaginable. 

This is where I first found out the breadth of what improv can be and a decade later, it still touches me. 

Yes, we share a love for the most exciting art form on this planet but the love we share for community, inclusiveness, care and support when failing and succeeding is what makes this week truly special.

So this is my love letter to all of you, thank you so much for the warmth, inspiration, support and entertainment you've all brought to IMPRO Amsterdam 2026. 

I can't wait to see you again next year.