Most are familiar with improv due to the hit TV show, Whose Line Is It Anyway? Improv is all about thinking on your feet and making stuff up on the spot. Further, improvisation is a valuable and helpful tool in your life, relationships and career!
The Outcasters Improv Training Center is your “one-stop shop” for all levels of improv training! We hold live drop-in improv classes every Wednesday evening from 6:00-8:00 pm in North Scottsdale, just a couple minutes off the 101, Raintree exit, as well as weekly virtual classes every Tuesday from 6:00-7/7:30 pm MST. We also offer more in-depth training and workshops on both short and long-form improvisation. All of our classes are conducted in a safe and supportive environment where creativity can flourish.
Are you ready to flex your creative muscles and join us in making stuff up? Take a look at our many options in improv training… we guarantee a great time!
But don’t just take our word for it, check out comments from our students:
These are just some of the dozens of kudos we have on file from our many students...
"Joe Hammer’s Outcasters Improv classes are the best in the biz. Joe’s fun and engaging style of teaching Improv will enhance your game big time. Whether you are new to Improv or an experienced performer, Joe will take you to higher levels quickly. I highly recommend The Outcasters Improv classes, and Joe’s book The Improv Edge."
"I love how the program is so well organized into different exercises that end up getting one into a more flowing state of creativity! I am loving each second of the class."
"You're a great Improv Coach (and a great guy)! The games we played were 'spot on' for fine tuning all the top tools to facilitate the 'magic' in our improv scenes. Your Director Notes are really helpful too!"
"The way it was run, professionally, no ego from anyone, great fun and we learned a whole bunch of new funny stuff!"
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"I loved learning more about flashbacks and how we can put that into our performances. It was very insightful. The class was fun and we did a lot of fun games."
"I enjoyed learning so much from Joe! He reminded me how even the small things in a scene are what truly bring it to life."
"I very much enjoyed how positive and supportive Joe is when he runs the class. This is NOT a competitive environment and it attracts a wide range of interesting, kind students from various backgrounds."
"Everyone was extremely welcoming and Joe was a fantastic teacher. I felt comfortable participating and didn't feel I had to worry about any judgement, we were all in it together. The warmups and exercises were engaging and hilarious. I can't wait to go back!"
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"The Outcasters improv classes are a great way to build your interactive skills that you can use in any life situation. It is a fun way to learn how to listen and build off someone else's input, a priceless skill in the world of business. It is a safe, non-judgmental, encouraging environment!"
"The best class I’ve ever participated in! I can’t wait until next Wednesday! Laughter is the best medicine. Thank you Joe and everyone there."
"A great group of very talented individuals. I very much look forward to the next class."
"I came to The Outcasters having never done Improv. One night and I'm hooked!"
"I've hit rock bottom in terms of social interactions so many times and finally made the decision that enough is enough. I need to get better. This is exactly what I've been needing. I feel so happy and thankful to have been a part of it and will be attending every chance I get."
"I found myself looking forward to class every week! The games are always playful, fun and yet challenging and instructive."
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"If you have been considering diving into the art of Improvisation, take the plunge now with Joe Hammer’s, The Outcasters Improv Troupe, in Scottsdale. Joe is an excellent instructor and improvisor. His exceptional methods of teaching are more like lessons in fun."
"I have been attending improv classes with The Outcasters for six months and have found them to be an enjoyable diversion from my regular routine. Joe runs the class effectively, introducing games to hone our skills, providing insightful tips, and facilitating a welcoming and friendly environment. Mistakes and blunders are inevitable yet forgiven and I highly recommend the class for anyone looking to experience some laughs and develop their interpersonal skills."
"I loved how Joe related to people in a non-judgmental way. Totally "yes, and" posture. I also enjoyed his style of directing during the exercises as needed. The folk in the class were awesome, accepting, welcoming."
"I would definitely recommend Joe Hammer's classes , workshops, trainings after attending this first one. I plan to make this a habit. I'm not an actor, don't play one on TV, not a goal. I'm a psychotherapist at the VA working with vets diagnosed with PTSD, and all kinds of trauma related challenges. I teach Improv in virtual groups to help them heal, improve their life skills. Personally I find it improves my life if I intentionally practice the principles in my daily life. I am a part of an international post-modern therapeutic community that has been using performance therapies for many years."
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EXCELLENT rating
Based on 74 reviewsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very impressed. It was my 1st time trying improv - or any acting or comedy. Joe & the group does a great job with both new folks & experienced folks. There are plenty of 1st-timers every week, so don't be afraid. Performing is definitely not natural to my personality. If I can do it, then so can you. You don't get thrown into the fire all by yourself. It's gradual. I finally tried improv for various reasons - to get better moving conversations along, to think quicker on my feet, to get better bringing out my goofiness, and to learn about real-world improv comedy beyond the Comedy Bang Bang podcasting world. I'll be back. William ElliottMay 22, 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The Outcasters show last night, 5/17/2025 at Scottsdale Center For Spiritual Living, was fabulous! Laughs, impromptu giggles and a great time was had by all. Dianne PooleMay 18, 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Such a great Funny show. Quick, smart, creative, such talent. Everyone in the room kept laughing. Audience participation for topics. Highly recommend "The Outcasters" shows Penny CMay 18, 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I saw the show last night and it was outstanding! I love the audience participation that goes with improve and they were excellent at it. I can’t wait to go again🙏❤️ Donna ChristjaenerMay 18, 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It’s really fun to do, everyone is friendly and encouraging. No jumping in the deep end, it was set up well to gradually get used to participating. I will be back for more! Kevin GrantMay 8, 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had the absolute pleasure of seeing The Outcasters perform on 4/18/25 in Anthem, Arizona. Each performer brought their own unique character to the show, and the chemistry between them was undeniable—like a group of best friends who also happen to be comedic geniuses. Their quick wit, timing, and fearless commitment to every absurd scenario made for a night of pure joy. The audience suggestions turned into spontaneous sketches that somehow felt both off-the-cuff and perfectly polished. They connected with the crowd and gave us a good laugh which everyone can use now and then! Lynn LopesApril 26, 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I laughed so hard, my checks hurt! The Outcasters Improv performers are so quick and witty. If you like “Whose Line Is It Anyway?,” you will love The Outcasters! Gail MagusinApril 26, 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've watched Who's Line Is It Anyways on television, but have never seen an Improve show in person until I caught The Outcasters perform. Talk about live without a net! Totally unscripted and their performance was all based on audience participation and the suggestions thrown out at them. So impressed how quick they were and how they turned even a suggestion that didn't seem great into something hilarious. It was so good to laugh that my cheeks hurt by the end of the evening. I totally recommend seeing them perform. You will not be disappointed. Vicki DellApril 21, 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Such a fun evening! Lots of laughs. Very entertaining. The cast was extremely creative!! It’s a must see!!!! Diane EllerApril 21, 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Lots of laugh!! Great night out with friends. Dina GuarinoApril 21, 2025Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
Registration Required
Registration not required for Premier/Masterclass Members
Registration Recommended
Registration not required for Premier/Masterclass Members
Registration Not Required
Registration not required for Premier/Masterclas Members
Registration Not Required
Registration not required for Masterclass Members
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Joe Hammer has been actively presenting powerful personal and business development seminars and entertainment programs for decades. Complimenting his books, THE IMPROV EDGE and BLANK TO BRILLIANT, Joe’s improv classes and workshops deliver high-impact content from his extensive training with Magnet Theater, Upright Citizen’s Brigade and Impro Theatre, including disciplines with fellow improv authors, Mick Napier of The Annoyance Theater and Will Hines of UCB.
Joe’s classes go beyond simple improv games; you’ll discover practical and constructive principles of both short and long form improvisation – all while enjoying ample stage time, personalized coaching and considerate feedback. There’s something new in every class!
And it’s all taught in a safe, respectful, and non-judgmental setting. No egos. No harassment. No criticism. Just progressive improv training in a positive environment!
As a perceptive chameleon, Banter recognizes the importance of being adaptable. Banter came to be the Outcasters’ mascot after trying to find a place to cool off from the blazing Arizona sun. He stumbled inside a drop-in improv class and, after seeing what The Outcasters were all about, he quickly realized he was home! Whether you’re an experienced improviser, just beginning your improv journey, or attending one of our shows, Banter invites you to join us!