Music Theatre

Music theatre is improvisational theatre where musicality is the starting point. This doesn’t necessarily mean improvised songs – it can, but it doesn’t have to. Instead, we work with sound, rhythm and tonal quality as the driving forces of the scene.

This module is inspired by the work of companies and makers such as Orkater, Het Amsterdams Bostheater, Monty Python and the Ashton Brothers.

What will we do?

In this module, we explore how music and sound can become the engine of your improvisation. Sometimes a scene emerges purely from a sound or rhythm; at other times, music supports the action and amplifies the emotion. Music becomes a fully-fledged scene partner rather than an accompaniment.

You’ll discover how musical choices influence timing, dynamics and emotional impact, and how sound can give structure and momentum to improvised scenes.

Who is this course for?

It helps if you are musical or play an instrument, but this is absolutely not required. What matters most is curiosity: a willingness to explore musicality and to play with sound.

I strongly believe that everyone has enough musicality to create powerful improvised scenes from music. To make sure the group works comfortably for everyone, there may be a short intake beforehand. This is not about judging your musical skills, but about checking whether you feel safe and excited to experiment in a musical way.

What will we work on?

The classes are structured around four core elements:

• Voice use – exploring how to use your voice musically, from raw sounds and textures to rhythm and melody.
• Making music – creating music with simple tools (even a plastic bag can become an instrument) and learning how sound can strengthen a scene.
• Scenes born from music – discovering how music can drive a scene forward and provide structure.
• Music supporting scenes – using music to enhance atmosphere, tension and emotion.

Why take this module?

This course challenges you to look at improvisation from a different perspective. Instead of starting from text or narrative, you learn to create from sound, rhythm and feeling – opening up new creative possibilities in your improvisation.

About the teacher:

Iwan Dam is a highly sought-after improvisation actor with experience on both stage and screen. He’s been teaching improv for years, with an open and playful style focused on technique and growth. Iwan studied at the Academy of Performing Arts (Kleinkunstacademie), the Central School of Speech and Drama in London, and learned from well know Dutch artists. He played in (youth) theatre, musicals, tv, improv comedy group Op Sterk Water, and does improv comedy shows at corporate events.  

Course details

Location Buurthuis De Jager zaal 6, Teun de Jagerstraat 1 Utrecht. Free parking and close to Utrecht Overvecht station. Tuesdays  27 Jan, 3, 10, 17, 24 February, 10 March 2025  (spare date 24 march) 20:15-22:15h. Teacher Iwan Dam

We DO have a lesson in the school holiday. The 7th session is a show, date to be planned.

Improv Utrecht offers 1 or 2 funded courses with 20% discount for people with less finances. Send a message to Marieke van Laar.