I have taken Improv classes here and it is a very welcoming and inclusive environment. I tried their free Introduction to Improv workshop and I was hooked! I'm a stand-up Comedian and I've been here for the past two Open Mic Nights as a performer and had a very positive experience. 1. There is no 2 item minimum. You only pay $5 either as a performer or audience member. That is a bargain! 2. There are no more than 12 comedians performing in total. Each comedian has a 5 minute set. You'll be home in time to shower, go to sleep early, and wake up sober for work the next day! 3. Friendly and encouraging audience. No one will boo you or throw a bottle at you! If you are interested in taking classes in Improv/Comedy or would just like to be a supportive audience member, this is the place to be! read more

Held2gether: Improv for Life - Me telling jokes at the Open Mic Night on 2/25/26. IG @ComedianCorinne - Performing Arts Near Me - Long Beach, California

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Held2gether, Improv for Life is making such a difference in so many areas of my life; I had no idea the profound effect it would have. I just thought it would be fun, and it turned out to be so much more. Yes, it is fun! It is a beautiful escape from life's difficulties and filled with laughter, learning, and grace. Darren, Neil and the rest of the instructors and cast have created something very special here. Imagine a group of strangers from all walks of life coming together to create something magical. It is scary at first but the growth is quick and you are supported and encouraged so much more than you could imagine, not only by the instructors but that group of strangers who you bond with. Some of my biggest takeaways are to listen, (really listen), choose words wisely, and not to rush. This is not only true on the Held2gether stage but has carried over in my life. Give it a try, you won't regret it and you just may get hooked too. All are welcome and encouraged. read more

Held2gether: Improv for Life - Level One! - Performing Arts Near Me - Long Beach, California

Wonderful evening at Held2gether this week at a Slackers Class. Fantastic feedback and a creatively supportive environment which allows for the exploration of different characters with various points of view. Thanks Darren!! read more

I was introduced to this program by a friend. My first impression is...... I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The instructor, LIZ, was absolutely GREAT! She was full of life & had an amazing energy the entire class. I met 10 new people, who were all open to this new experience of being present, supportive, and creative as we were all strangers. This review is not doing justice of how I REALLY would like to express exactly how positive this improv class is. read more

Held2gether: Improv for Life - a blue building with graffiti on it - Performing Arts Near Me - Long Beach, California

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My adult son did the free intro trial workshop and loved it. This organization is Welcoming, offers encouragement, and a positive outlet for expression I purchased an intro to Improv class for my Adult son as a gift. He has expressed that he would like to continue as it has helped him gain more confidence, connections to others, and it's just a lot of fun for him. % love that he wants to continue and this place is worth every penny! read more

What a wonderful school! The best one that I ever attended. The program works on many levels, supporting creativity and spontaneity, encouraging the expression of feeling, building community. It accomplishes all of this with an emphasis on reinforcing the positives. It's the honesty and the human connection that serves as the basis of humor. And,the scenes can be incredibly funny. Haven't laughed this much in years. The whole experience is the perfect antidote to the feelings of isolation that have been widespread during the pandemic. The last improv class I took I was 18 years old. Now 50 years later I appreciate the process even more! read more

I have always wanted to delve into comedy. The free workshop was the perfect way to be introduced to and try out improv. It was a completely welcoming and supportive experience. Darren and Neil were fantastic at facilitating the class. I definitely want to sign up for classes. If you want to try it, do it. read more

No words. NO WORDS FOR THE AMAZINGNESS THAT IS THE EXUBERANT RICHARD MARTINEZ. I recently finished 6 weeks of level 1 improv class. It was my first time doing improv/standing on a stage anywhere (unless you count the 3 graduation ceremonies and 2 violin recitals I've stood up for). The classes started out with the basics and it builds from there. Every week Richard introduced new skills for us to learn via interactive games/scenes. I found him to be engaging and encouraging as a teacher; every class was organized. He always found positive things to point out in my scenes and always let me know about areas I could improve on. It was never done in a critical way, but more of a "next time please remember to do x" type of way. If you're hesitating to sign up for classes, please don't! When I initially started 6 weeks ago, I didn't think I would sign up for additional classes - but now I'm definitely planning to! (Side note - I see the other reviewer on here who mentioned he attended just 1 class and 1 show and observed Richard's "drunkenness". As someone who's taken 6 classes and attended a show I want to point out that Richard is/has always been sober and punctual for all 6 Saturday classes I've attended.) read more

We enjoyed Improv as a team building experience. Darren was great in leading the activities - very engaging 2 hours. I look forward to returning for more fun. read more

This was my first time taking improv class! I loved it way more than I thought I would haha. Darren has created such an amazing environment for learning and play. You really feel safe like you're at home since everyone so supportive and friendly. It's a super creative place, and you'll develop so many valuable abilities in terms of speaking, charisma, expressiveness, thinking on your feet, etc. Highly recommended! I'll be back soon :) read more

Thank you so much for everything you've imparted to us, Darren! You've truly changed all of our lives for the better, especially our neurological wiring. I'm sure of this! We'll miss you on Monday nights! I really appreciate your nurturing positivity, constructive feedback, and overall energy. The whole group feels to me like we've become one big family because of you! Long Beach is truly fortunate to have you and Held2gether! (I really hope in person shows can come back soon.) We love you so much!!! read more

I am very impressed with Held2gether. I have studied improv for years with various schools, and I teach improv in high school, and still enjoy taking classes. I highly recommend Held2gether. They are knowledgeable and create a very inclusive, supporting and non- competitive atmosphere. And the classes are fun. So whether your brand new to improvisation, or just want to hone your skills, you should really give them a try. They have temporarily transitioned to Zoom classes recently because of the current situation, and the online classes are great too. It is fun to be creative and play with some really nice folks. read more

Took the Held2gether Stand-Up Comedy 101 course. Loved it. If you've ever been interested in writing jokes or stand-up comedy take this class. If you have a good sense of humor and no purpose in life take this class. I was a shiftless bum before I took this class. Now, I am still a bum, but I learned some essential skills to write jokes and have a hunger to create and be social and work with others. Changed my freakin life man. TAKE. THIS. CLASS!!! Other things to consider: -It's the most affordable stand-up class in So Cal -The Held2gether team is the friendliest group of people in So Cal -It's a wonderful way to network with other people who want to write jokes -real feedback on material Take da CLAASSSSS!!! read more

I have been taking improv and stand up comedy classes from Held2gether for 3 plus years. The folks at Held2gether excel at creating a fun, warm environment to develop one's innate comedic and acting talent. Without reservation I recommend the classes at Held2gether where students laugh and learn together in a stimulating but judgement-free zone, culminating with the opportunity to hone their skills in post-workshop virtual performances and student jams. Even during the pandemic when classes moved online, lead teachers Darren, Richard and Tim have maintained nuanced, in-depth instruction. If you're on the fence about improv, check out a free introductory workshop--it's a blast! read more

A fun class with encouraging people. Darren was knowledgeable, patient and adjusts the activities to all skill levels/ abilities. I highly recommend to people who want to work on acting, public speaking, or just practice living in the moment. read more

I signed up for a free workshop because i was told that improv can help me with my social anxiety and fear of public speaking. Initially, I had a few concerns because i wasn't sure how my anxiety would play out and whether the class would be patient with me so I contacted Held2gether and spoke to Darren over the phone. He was super friendly, addressed my concerns, and made me feel welcome. Fast forward to about 2 weeks later, i attended the workshop and had a great time! I was incredibly nervous at first. My mouth was trembling and my fear response was almost driving me to cry but after the initial introduction, I felt more at ease. It's a VERY safe space. Everyone was having fun, laughing, and getting out of thier comfort zone. There's a broad range of people doing this for fun, self-improvement, comedic skills, and even as a date night. If it wasn't for my work and school schedule, I would have definitely signed up for the regular class session. I'll be looking into this next year when my schedule clears up a bit more. read more

I love Held2Gether theatre! I've been taking classes and going to shows for about 4 years now! The instructors are great and the class atmosphere is very welcoming. I'm not new to improv, and a lot of LA-based improv establishments tend to have a competitive atmosphere, but it was here that I received a lot of love and support, and learned so much! The opportunities to perform in shows are more accessible than a lot of other theatres, and I have definitely performed with a lot of sharp, outstanding people. I even overcame my fear of performing stand-up! So if you don't like creative joy, or personal development, camaraderie, then ***BEWARE***because you WILL make new friends, learn more about yourself, and WILL definitely laugh your ass off. Being a student at Held2Gether theatre was one of the best decisions I've ever made, and don't think I can say that about a lot of choices, LOL, so go! read more

After attending a free workshop I was hooked! I loved being able to get back on a stage in such a welcoming environment. Such a great place whether you're used to performing or new to it. Highly recommend. read more

Held2gether: Improv for Life - Performing Arts Near Me - Long Beach, California

Absolutely the JOY of my life! The most supportive and fun environment to sharpen skills, find a freedom flow, and meet incredible people. The instructors are ALL AWESOME! Darren has created an incredible atmosphere of laughter and learning. I write this review with gratitude. Thank you! read more

Gosh, I can't give enough praise for Richard & Darren! I signed up for the level one class to get out of my comfort zone. I get really awkward in social situations and figured improv might help. Days before class started Darren called and made sure to answer any questions. I thought that was a really nice touch. It took some of the nervousness away. Really cool! I had such a great experience taking the class that I signed up to take it again. This time with Richard. Let me just say both instructors are very supportive and teach without judgement. They're genuinely nice people and very receptive to everyone. They totally make it fun. I also attended a few shows. What a great group! Everyone is inviting and I always left soar from laughing. If anyone was like me and on the fence. Don't hesitate. It really is one of the best things I've ever done. I'm still awkward, but now I don't beat myself up when I trip over myself. :) read more

Not funny, but they put forth a great effort. read more

Held2gether: Improv for Life - The Crew - Performing Arts Near Me - Long Beach, California

If you need an evening to escape from reality, then locate one of Held2Gether's improve events. You will certainly leave feeling uplifted and inspired when you leave. Even better: attend one of Darren's workshops and learn how to apply laughter to expand your own character. Laughter is an excellent form of healing yourself no matter what you are dealing with in your life. Try it out and let me know! read more

I love Held2gether! I started taking classes a few months ago and have signed up time and time again (and so has the rest of the class!) You can clearly tell that Held2gether was an amazing community before COVID, and that welcoming attitude is surely felt through online classes. We've only been able to meet through zoom so far, but I am hooked. Richard has been an amazing teacher who creates a fun, encouraging and inviting atmosphere. You can feel that everyone who is a student at Held2gether loves it. The classes on zoom make it so easy to attend. Its a great way to experience improv for first timers or for people with experience. read more

I,'ve been acting and doing comedy for over 30 years. I,'ve done a few projects on film and television ,and traveled across the U S with several Stage productions. Casting directors suggest that you constantly stay in acting and trading classes ,to keep your chops up. I was so pleased when I checked put Held2gether classrs.Its class to w hete Live ,and affordable. THE instructors are excellent and classes are fun. IVE BEEN student there for a year and a half and I've grown imensly in my comedy and acting skills. I highly recommend it ,wether your a novice or a pro...it,s a blast ! Blessings!! Lamont Bonman Actor/ Comedian read more

Love love love! I was hesitant in taking a class, but I did it and it's fantastic. Daren and Richard are the best teachers. They really lay out the foundation and rules of improv that helps us become successful. They do such a great job of encouraging and empowering us to do amazing stuff on stage. Yes And taking this class will help you think on your feet. Yes And you build confidence in your personal life. Yes And I recommend you do it! read more

I have been taking classes at Held2gether for about 2-3 years now and can say this is one of the best places to do improv. Darren and Richard, the two main Held2gether teachers, foster a very welcoming community for those who are just thinking about doing improv to those who are just looking for a place to continue their journey with improv. They offer many classes from the various types of improv styles (long form, short form, musical, etc.) to stand-up comedy classes. Fortunately, given the current situation with COVID, they offer a number of online improv classes via Zoom. This is a unique platform to continue the art of improv from the comfort of your own home. If you're looking for a creative outlet and are debating whether or not to try out Held2gether, take one of their free online walk-in classes. You will have much more to gain than lose. read more

If you are considering taking improv classes, Held2gether in the Bixby Knolls area of Long Beach is an excellent choice. I've taken a 6 week class with Richard and have attended several drop-in classes with Darren Held. They are both knowledgeable and talented instructors. The classes / drop-ins at Held2gether are fantastic. The instruction is excellent and they always give supportive, constructive critic of your performance so that you can improve and have more fun with improv! The community of amazing people that they have built really makes this place amazing. So many talented, welcoming people! The classes are fun, sometimes rowdy and always hilarious... they are very well run and organized. The classes start on time, stay on topic and are focused on improving your skills. Held2gether is a wonderful supportive place to study the art of improv. read more

I was very nervous about taking improv classes. Improv professionals seem incredibly quick-witted, always have a great joke in their back pocket, and can flex on a dime to oddball suggestions and situations. I just didn't think I had that muscle. Then I jumped on an hour long freebie class with Darren Held with Held2Gether: Improv for Life, and he encouraged the class to listen and support each other and not focus on 'being' funny.' I enjoyed the class, though still with some heavy reservations that I would be a scared and silent partner, and signed up for an Intro course over Zoom (thanks, Covid). The course was once a week for four weeks with the same group of students. My instructor was Richard, and I really couldn't have asked for a more energetic, patient teacher for my first dive into improv. Richard talked us though the exercises and the 'why' for each one. So, if one exercise was just to get comfortable with Spacework, he detailed that expectation up front and then gave us an example. If another exercise dealt with reactions and listening, he made sure to ease each of us through that. Yes, each of us! Everyone participated in every exercise, and if someone was really struggling, Richard slowed us down and helped that person succeed. There was never a moment of debilitating fear. Nervousness, sure, because there's vulnerability to crawling out of a comfort zone to try new things. But Richard and the other students were SO SUPPORTIVE, and we laughed and high-fived (virtually) and stumbled through the exercises and learned some very helpful skills. While I'm an actor-in-training, I'm also a human being (I AM!), and the skills learned from this four week improv class about really listening to other people, supporting them, saying yes in a positive, safe space with people that, even in four weeks, you learn to trust, and putting even a single toe outside of my comfort zone - all of those things will help me grow in many aspects of life. I would highly recommend Held2Gether: Improv for Life. It's a minimal investment of time and money, and you get exactly what you want to get out of it. I wanted A TON out of my first experience, and boy, did I get it! I'm so glad I gave this improv thing a try, and as soon as my schedule permits, I'll be signing up for the next course. Thanks, Richard, Darren, and everyone at Held2Gether!!!!! read more

I have only positive things to say about this company! I took a Level 1 class with Richard and (after attending some other improv places in San Diego) truly feel like I got everything I wanted and more out of them! The classes are structured in a way that each week builds upon skills you learned last week, which is so helpful. I like that after each scene, every person gets personal feedback, which is another great way to learn, especially after watching other people's scenes! Additionally, I attended a pop-up show at Hot Java in Long Beach, and I really appreciated the community support that was there. I felt very supported by both Richard and Darren and would HIGHLY recommend this place for anyone looking to find great people and some laughs! read more

If you are interested in improv then this is a great place to start. It's a very supportive environment with great I structure and helps you get out of your head for a couple hours and develop a skill you didn't even know you had! Love Richard aj read more

I was introduced to Held2gether when I attended one of their shows. I had such a good time I decided to check out the free workshop they offer and needed up taking a class. 5 classes later I'm loving improv. The classes are filled with a diverse group of people ranging from late teens to septuagenarians. Everyone is there to have a good time and there is no judgement. In the first class we were asked why we decided to take the class and the reasons were as varied as the people. There are some people who do improv as a stepping stone to a career in entertainment but the vast majority are doing it just to have fun and try something new. There are as many introverts as there are extroverts in the classes. The instructors are all very friendly and helpful. Their feedback is always positive, well-meaning and constructive. They are truly terrific. We all laugh A LOT and have a good time. If you are even slightly interested you should at least attend a free introductory class which are usually offered once a month. You have nothing to loose and will have a great time. If you are not interested in taking a class there are still many opportunities to support this group. They are several shows a years. I suggest checking their website for more information. I hope to see you in class or at a show. read more

This is only a review of their free performance I attended at Hot Java some months ago--I'm not a student of the workshop. The best way to describe this show would be something like Who's LIne Is It Anyway, where the improv performers are given certain parameters (often supplied by the audience) to perform a skit. I was amazed at the performers' abilities to think so quickly on their feet and at all the hilarious scenarios that ensued from the oftentimes ludicrous setup. Some of the performers were pros, and others weren't, but I was able to find something to appreciate about all of them. The packed house also supplied a lot of energy to motivate the performers and the audience does almost become one of the cast members by the end of the show. The workshop's instructor and emcee, Darren Held, keeps the show moving along nicely. The show, at over 2 hours and being FREE, is a great entertainment value. Certain situations can get a bit "adult" so I wouldn't say it's really kid-friendly, fyi (maybe a PG-13?). My friends and I had a blast and I look forward to the next time I get to see another show. Bravo, Held2gether! read more

I started taking Darren's Level 2 class after going to Groundlings Basic. Living in Long Beach I wanted to keep playing but didn't feel like driving up to WeHo to do improv. What I discovered right off the bat is that everyone is very supportive! VERY! When you put yourself out there like that its really nice to be with a group you can trust because then everyone gets better. This is definitely the case here. I also enjoyed the fact that each class is a challenge. Darren truly knows your strengths and weaknesses and helps you play better with each. You increase your strengths and bring up those weaknesses to make you a very well rounded improviser. Now...lets just say you are on the fence about this. My recommendation is to commit to trying it out. Most people say "oh I could never do that" or "what will I use that for?" First, yes you can do that. Second, you can use this in life. Increased self confidence, better communication, learning teamwork, or even just a silly release to help deal with stress. All benefits of letting go and just improvising. First step: get into a Level 1 class or take a weekend workshop (thats where I started which is a good way to see if this is your "thing") then just go for it! Second step: become an Improv MASTER! Ok, maybe that was a big jump but you get it...See you in class! read more

Class was kind of disappointing. 60% of the time we were sitting around waiting for other students to finish preforming and getting critiqued before it was our turn. The head of the class Richard kept trying to up sell us on going to the shows. I decided to attend one of the shows. Specially one that richard was in to see how he would do. I Found out after the show that Richard the teacher of our class was drunk and needed wine to preform and couldn't even do it sober. Which was a let down. It was a beginner class but it was taught very lazily and it seemed as if more than half the time he was trying to stall out the clock. I stopped going to class after seeing that Richard had to drink to preform. Seriously... he had this drunk daze that just. Let me down. read more

I am not a professional actress/performer and I am not planning to be one. I took this class to help my fear of public speaking. It was in between toastmasters and improv class and this sounded more fun! I was very intimidated walking into the first class because I was not professionally trained. However Darren (the instructor) was very welcoming and the attendees all came for different reasons and at different skill levels. The exercises started out simple and doable for someone like myself who considers herself shy in large groups of people. Darren created a very supportive culture in class for learning, making mistakes and stepping outside comfort zones. I was truly surprised that by the end of the six week course I was performing spoken word about a item of clothing, singing pop songs. and making sounds to imitate a machine. Take this class to get over stage fright, to improve your acting skills or just to have fun! read more

I have been taking classes for about 3 years with held2gether. I started with Sonjay and then leveled up to Darren's classes. If you have ever thought about doing improv, this is the school for you. Classes are very positive! We always clap for each other support one another. Classes are for everyone! I have classmates that work in law, medicine, are professionals. These classes are for anyone who wants to let out their inner kid and let loose. No experience needed. I sound like an advertisement but I this is important. My friends tell me "oh im not an actor, I could never do that." But these classes are for people just starting and people who have done it for years. Give it a try! Show up for a free class and say "YES! AND" read more

Posting on behalf of my daughter, who has no time for "yelping". She started a beginner class there and is super happy. In her words, it's the best opportunity to try improv if you always wanted but wondered if you can do it. She is totally hooked now, and can't wait for the next class. read more

I have attended a few of their shows, I am amazed at how inventive and funny this group can be on the fly. I have always been entertained and the time goes by quickly watching their shows, it leaves you wanting more. Darren, Sonnjea and their wonderful crew are very talented, but whats even more amazing, they can show you the skills you need to be just as amazing. I have not taken one of their workshops yet, but it is very tempting. I can't think of a more warm and caring group to bring out the best in you. If you have always wanted to learn how to think on your feet, be more confident and make some terrific friends, take one of their workshops or at the very least, catch one of their free shows, you will be glad you did. read more

I attended Darren's Improv class through the City of Long Beach this summer. I can honestly say that it's one of the best classes I've ever taken! (And with a PhD education under my belt I've taken a LOT of classes!) Darren does an amazing job of making each member of the class feel safe and valued. We're encouraged to take risks and are supported if we "mess up." Darren is a fun instructor who has a great personality, a fantastic sense of humor, and a solid understanding of the elements of improv. Not only did I have fun, but I also left the class with a greater knowledge of improv, and increased self confidence (which is pretty hard to do since I already think I'm rockin' awesome). If you get a chance to see Held2Gether or to take one of Darren's classes, do it. It's a blast! read more

What else can I say but....Darren's Improv classes are life changing!!!! Meet new great friends and celebrate all the little details of life while learning Improv comedy!!! If you have ever thought you were funny or just love hearing people laugh at your jokes and sense of humor, I highly recommend these classes as a start to learning the basics and of course having a heck of a good time while learning. Darren is a fantastic teacher!! He is so nice, professional and creates an amazingly comfortable environment to grow in. read more