(Liquid Mind Performers: Daniel, John and Elgin - Pan Theater 2011)

Finding Your Voice in Oakland Improv Classes
for Beginners and Professionals

A Space for You to Shine
Ever stumble over words in a meeting or feel quiet at a networking event? At Pan Theater, nestled in Oakland’s Frank Ogawa Plaza near the Fox Theater’s neon glow, we help professionals find their voice through improv. Our Sunday drop-in classes, just steps from 12th Street BART, serve as a community hub. Since 2002, we’ve guided thousands to be bolder. Here’s how our Improv Dojo works its magic.

Improv’s Quiet Strength

Improv isn’t about being loud—it’s about trusting yourself. In our Improv Dojo, we play games like “Yes, And” to make quick choices feel easy. 

Maria, a Temescal teacher, joined us feeling shy but left leading parent meetings with ease, thanks to Meisner’s focus on listening. Her story shows how improv builds confidence while comedy becomes part of the process. You’ll learn to speak up in any room, from boardrooms to Oakland’s open mics.

Public Speaking, Made Simple

Public speaking scares 75% of adults (Forbes, 2023), but our classes, near Lake Merritt’s trails, turn fear into fun. Create scenes on the fly to sharpen your wits. 

Our group feels like friends, not a stage, so you practice without pressure. Maria says, “It’s like a deep breath before a big talk.” Sundays fit busy lives, whether you’re from Berkeley or San Francisco.

Why Pan Theater?

Pan’s “studio, not factory” vibe sets us apart. Just 30 seconds from BART, we’re a haven for Bay Area pros—techies from Emeryville, educators from Alameda.

Our instructors are also Pan performers  who got their start right here at Pan. We focus on real skills, not jokes, using methods like Meisner to ground your growth. Oakland’s energy, from coffee shops to murals, fuels our classes.

Your First Step

No experience? No problem. Our drop-in Improv Dojo welcomes beginners and pros alike. Wear comfy clothes, bring an open mind, and join our Oakland community.

Curious about what’s next?
We’re here to help you start.
Sign up for your first class here.

Pan Theater
120 Frank Ogawa Plaza
Oakland - 30 seconds from
12th Street BART.