Improv classes that build real-life confidence.
The Outcasters is an improv training center in North Scottsdale, founded and led by improv director and communication coach Joe Hammer. Every week, adults of all experience levels join us in the studio and on Zoom to play, laugh, and practice the skills that make improv so useful off stage: listening, adapting, and speaking up with confidence.
No experience needed. No scripts. No judgment.
Our classes at a glance
Every Wednesday
6:00 to 8:00 pm at our North Scottsdale studio. $20 per class, drop-in.
Every Tuesday
6:00 to 7:30 pm on Zoom, open to students anywhere. $10 per class, drop-in.
For serious improv students
Unlimited live and online classes, plus our quarterly Immersive workshops, for $75 a month.
North Scottsdale
8360 E Raintree Dr #110, just off the 101 at Raintree. About 20 to 25 minutes from downtown Phoenix.
What happens in class.
Every class is a mix of warm-up games, guided exercises, and short improv scenes. Joe explains why each exercise matters and how it carries over to real life, then gives quick, encouraging director notes so you get a little better every week.
You’ll practice listening, building on other people’s ideas, staying present, and making bold choices without overthinking. Those are the same skills that help in conversations, meetings, presentations, and anywhere else life doesn’t come with a script.
Classes are drop-in, so you can come every week or whenever your schedule allows. Start with a live Wednesday class in North Scottsdale or an online Tuesday class on Zoom. Ready to go deeper? Premier Membership covers it all.
Premier members get unlimited live and online classes, plus our quarterly Immersive workshops, for one monthly price.
No scripts. No pressure.
Hear it from our students.
Real students. Real classes. Totally unscripted. Tap any video to hear what it’s like to take an improv class with Joe.
Joe Hammer
The Outcasters was founded by improv director and communication coach Joe Hammer, who has spent decades presenting personal and business development seminars and entertainment programs. Joe is the author of three books, The Improv Edge, Blank to Brilliant! and The Unconscious Authority, and brings high-impact training from Magnet Theater, Upright Citizens Brigade, and Impro Theatre to every class and workshop.
Joe’s training includes work with fellow improv authors Mick Napier of The Annoyance Theater and Will Hines of UCB. His classes go beyond simple improv games, teaching practical, constructive principles of both short and long-form improvisation, all while giving students ample stage time, personalized coaching, and considerate feedback.
The Outcasters Team of Super Humans
Every Outcasters show features our best players, hand-picked from our advanced and Masterclass students. They train with Joe week after week, sharpening their skills through intensive coaching and a plethora of engaging games, so they’re ready to make up something brilliant on the spot.
By day, they’re your everyday, mild-mannered professionals. By night, they become The Outcasters Team of Super Humans, saving everyone from boring evenings by bringing laughter into their lives! Whether it’s a public show or your private event, we bring our strongest lineup to the stage.
Want to join them someday? Our players start right where you can: in class. Drop in any Wednesday from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at 8360 E Raintree Drive, Suite #110 in Scottsdale. It’s the best $20 you’ll spend for a night out!
What our students say…
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Classes, training, books & more.
Drop-in improv classes
Online Zoom classes
Every Tuesday, 6:00 to 7:30 pm on Zoom. Join from anywhere for $10 a class.
Premier Membership
Unlimited live and online classes, plus our quarterly Immersive workshops, for one monthly price.
Improv workshops
Student reviews
Dozens of written and video reviews from students who took the leap.
Corporate training
Get “The Improv Edge”
Get “Blank to Brilliant”
Joe Hammer’s guide to using improv skills in corporate communication, so you can think on your feet, connect with your team, and speak with confidence.