If you’re looking for workplace improv, head here
The Yes, And Club: Improv for All
“I signed up for an improv class looking to take on something new and walked away with so much more: the confidence to face my fears, a supportive community of friends, and improved public speaking and presenting skills. Pete’s leadership made it all possible. He is a natural facilitator and coach and has the ability to bring out the best in people while weaving all of these qualities together to form intimate groups and strong teams.”
“Pete has a gift for bringing out the hilarious in people, especially the ones who didn’t know they had it to begin with. He pushes people to find their inner ‘stupid,’ and does it in a fun, gentle, approachable, and lovable way. I’ve learned so much from Pete and have really enjoyed the intellectual stimulation of improv. I didn’t know that I needed it, but now I can’t imagine NOT having my weekly dose of laughter and hilarity, all inspired by Pete!!”
“Pete has a great way of getting us to feel more comfortable with each other and build camaraderie. He was fantastic at observing and picking up the distinctions of each of our personalities and his feedback was on point and extremely helpful. Pete did a great job of making what seemed to be silly exercises on the surface relevant on a professional, and personal, level.”
Curious to dip your toe in improv-water?
Do you have zero or little improv experience?
Are you not really sure what improv is?
Does the idea of improv scare you? But excite you? But scare you?
Are you fearful you’re not “funny enough” for improv?
Have you taken improv classes before and want to take one again?
Do you want to have fun and bonus!, learn life skills at the same time?
Could you use something in your calendar to look forward to?
Do you want to comfortably challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone?
Does being led by a warm, inclusive, supportive, experienced, Chicago-trained* instructor appeal? (*Chicago is the mecca of improv!)
Does doing something positive for yourself sound like a good thing? What about meeting new people from all walks of life?
If you answered yes to one, some, all of the above, The Yes, And Club, an eight-week improv for all class, is for you.
About the Class
Improv is a unique (and fun) way to build personal and professional skills.
This on-your-feet class blends play with purpose, using laughter and games to strengthen communication, collaboration, creativity, decision-making, and leadership. You’ll practice active listening, navigating challenges, and working with diverse personalities, all while building confidence, community, and a deeper appreciation for what you bring to the table. You’ll learn the basics of improvisation and regularly deep-belly laugh.
The results? Memorable a-ha moments and practical takeaways you can immediately apply in all areas of your life. Melting away of your stress, responsibilities, outside noise. Oodles of joy and warm fuzzies. A delightful community of new stranger-friends.
If the idea of improv is scary, consider this a sign—just do it. There isn’t a better time. You’re not going to have more time. You on this page is the universe telling you, “Register! Before all the spots are gone! So you don’t regret not doing it!” Future You will thank you for saying, “Ya know what? Heck yeah!”
There is no more welcoming, inclusive, supportive, spirit lifting room than a Mac & Cheese room.
About the Instructor
Pete Aiello is a proud Louisiana native, Vanderbilt alum, ex-Chicago and current Winston-Salem resident. With over twenty years of improv performance and teaching experience, clients ranging from Microsoft, Lincoln Park Zoo, and Feeding America to universities and hospitals across the country, and hundreds of individual students, he knows how to make growth feel accessible and energizing. Pete is the Director of Financial Aid at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a bicycle, dog, college football, spreadsheet-loving vegan.
Register
Click the green arrow for pricing
Wednesdays 6-8pm, September 30th – November 18th
Christ Moravian Church Fellowship House, 919 West Academy Street, Winston-Salem
Highly suggested that you check out the FAQs below before registering so you know what to expect and so you can suss out if this is indeed a good fit. There are no refunds.
Hot Tip: employers will often pay for class and you can often write class off as a professional development opportunity; see the FAQs for more on this.
FAQs
Why is it called The Yes, And Club?
“Yes, and” is the heart of improv: accept what’s offered and build on it. This class is a place to practice that spirit, as opposed to the “no, but actually…” of much adulthood. It’s a reminder that adults are allowed to have fun and to play just for play’s sake.
Can anyone sign up for class?
Anyone 21+.
Can I sign up with someone I know?
Sure! As long as there’s still space for your bestie, your lobster, your coworker…
What should I bring to class?
Just yourself and a yes’y aura.
What should I wear to class?
Comfy clothes you can move around in.
What if I can’t make every class?
Perfect attendance is the goal and you’ll get the most out of class if you’re at every class. That said, life happens, schedules are full, and if you have to miss a class, you’ll still benefit and enjoy yourself. The hope is that you make class priority, for your sake, your fellow classmates’ sake, and your instructor’s sake.
What if I have to be late to class/leave class early?
Attendance for class in its entirety is preferred to avoid being disruptive and so you get all the goodness, but if you have to be late/leave early, a-ok. The hope is that you make class priority, for your sake, your fellow classmates’ sake, and your instructor’s sake.
Class takes place in a church; is this a religiously affiliated class?
Zero religious affiliation.
Are you sure I don’t have to have any improv experience? Or be funny?
Yessssssssss. Cross our hearts.
What should I say in my ask to my employer to pay for class?
Here’s an email template you can use to make the ask. Tweak as necessary.
I’m self-employed; can I write class off?
Possibly!
Does the class maintain or improve skills you already use in your business?
Do you engage in activities like —
- Facilitation
- Public speaking, teaching, coaching, consulting, or trainings
- Performance
- Storytelling
- Client communication, sales calls, or presentations
- Content creation
If so, document class and keep —
- The receipt and proof of payment
- The course description and dates
- A brief business-purpose note saved with the receipt
