Equity
Because Improv involves saying the first thing that comes to mind, it can surface our biases, however unconscious. At ImprovWorks, when problematic assumptions and stereotypes appear in our games or scenes, we take that as an opportunity to learn.
At the end of every class or show, we engage in a feedback round where our students are asked to reflect upon any harmful stereotypes that appeared in their games or scenes and we discuss how we can do better. Of course, that feedback is also welcome anonymously through the feedback box at the bottom of this page.
In this way, we hope to become not only better improvisers, but better people.
ImprovWorks Berlin is dedicated to increasing the diversity of voices on Berlin's stages. We offer two free-of-charge spots in each of our classes for members of under-represented groups or marginalized communities. If you wish to apply for one of these scholarships, please see HERE.
All of our staff and students agree to a Code of Conduct before working or taking classes with us, and we will remove customers who are engaging in any kind of intolerance or harassment.
Please note that our venue is sadly not wheelchair-accessible, and the building is under monument protection ("denkmalschutz"), so cannot be renovated.
When We Fall Short
If a member of our community or Staff violates the Code of Conduct or otherwise makes you feel unsafe you may take any or all of the following steps:
1. Let a(nother) member of Staff know directly.
2. Let our Community Liaison know by using the Feedback box on this page, below. The Feedback box is anonymous be default, please include contact info if you want a response.
What Will Happen Then:
Our Staff will take appropriate immediate action as needed possibly including:
1. Removing the person from the premises or sending the Staff member home.
2. Calling you a taxi or arranging for an escort to public transit.
3. Involving the police (only with your consent).
Our Community Liaison will, in consultation with you where possible, take additional action as needed, possibly including:
1. Requiring an apology, in person or electronically, acknowledging the harm caused and detailing the steps the person will take to ensure it doesn't happen again.
2. Exclusion of the member from the community, either temporarily or permanently.
3. Requiring the Staff member to take an anti-oppression class.
4. A written warning in the Staff member's personnel file.
Community Liaison
Kathi (she/her) has six years of professional experience supporting international students at a university in cases of harassment, violence, discrimination and crises. She also oversaw the gender-based misconduct policy of the university. She cares deeply about allyship, mental health and survivor advocacy and is currently leading a Germany-wide project aimed at increasing the visibility of support groups for young people.
