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If you've ever stepped into a scene and immediately gone blank... if you've ever walked offstage thinking "why did I do that?"... if you've ever felt like everyone else has figured out some secret you missed — you're not broken.

You just need a simpler approach.

Dan Thomas

Hi, I'm Dan Thomas.

I help improvisers get out of their heads and back into the fun.

Improv should feel playful, not stressful. But somewhere along the way, many of us collect so many "rules," techniques, and conflicting approaches that stepping into a scene starts to feel like mental gymnastics.

I teach a simpler way. One that helps you trust your instincts, make bold choices without second-guessing, and actually enjoy the process again.

Trained at UCB, iO & Second City 10+ Years Teaching & Coaching Melbourne, Australia
More about me

Three ideas at the heart of everything I teach.

Playing with Wants

Discover what you and your character actually want — then go after it. When you play with a want, the scene takes care of itself.

Make Things Active

Don't talk about the thing — do the thing. Action over explanation. It's easier, more surprising, and way more fun to play.

React Honestly

Let your real reaction lead. When you respond truthfully in the moment, the audience experiences something authentic, and that's what they came for.

Testimonials

Hear from those who have trained with me

A few words from people who've trained with me in classes, workshops, and coaching.

"Dan's classes really focus on the fun and enjoyment of improv. He takes the time to guide you to be the best you can be. What I've taken out of his classes is to have an opinion…"

Adam Campbell

Adam Campbell

Customer Success Manager

"Dan is a fantastic person to have as an instructor. His classes always have a relaxed environment which makes it easy to approach him to ask questions or advice. He is also warm,…"

Adem Sahin

Adem Sahin

Civil Engineer

"Dan creates a safe space, is reliable and always ensures the classes are fun. Outside of sessions, he has also been a great mentor for advice surrounding the world of improv."

Aileen Ng

Aileen Ng

Artist, Designer & Performer

"Dan is a wonderful, compassionate, talented coach. His insights are wise and you always feel encouraged and rightly pushed. I feel I learnt so much while having our harold team…"

Akhilesh Jain

Akhilesh Jain

Actor

"Dan is a a fantastic teacher - great at tailoring classes to the individual strengths of each performer and group and allowing everyone to shine in their own way. He fosters a…"

Alex Morris

Alex Morris

Improviser

"Each session I've had under Dan's instruction has always been incredibly insightful and fun, the environment he curates for the sessions are always one of trust, and joy. Dan's…"

Angus Roe

Angus Roe

Improviser

"Dan creates a positive, safe, inclusive, encouraging and fun environment across all of his workshops and coaching sessions. I feel highly encouraged to trust myself and my…"

Benzir Siddiqui

Benzir Siddiqui

Corporate worker by day, improviser by night.

"Dan's approach to improv is unique, and outside-the-box. Dan challenges some of the traditional understandings of improv. In doing so, he paves the path for a fresh take on…"

Beray U.

Beray U.

Solicitor

"Dan has an incredible knack for creating environments that foster trust and creativity. Having worked with him on numerous projects across film and design, I've experienced…"

Brendan Pinches

Brendan Pinches

Filmmaker

"I regularly take Dan's workshops, which have become my go-to for improv. The atmosphere is incredibly supportive, fostering a space for exploration, experimentation, and pure joy.…"

Carla Maree

Carla Maree

Improviser

"In addition to being a highly knowledgeable and caring teacher, Dan has a true passion for the community aspect of improv. He creates a safe and fun environment in every training…"

Chris Pahlow

Chris Pahlow

"Dan Thomas is truly one of the all time great improv coaches. He has a fantastic teaching disposition, an incredible knowledge and understanding of improv, and I am grateful for…"

Conor Lynch

Conor Lynch

Performer

"I tried out Dan's 'Breakfast Club' improv drop-in and found the session super helpful as a budding performer. I've been taking regular improv classes so the session was a great…"

Dave Ye

Dave Ye

Improv Student

"Dan’s kindness and passion for creative freedom has an incredibly positive impact on the confidence of performers that he works with. He always seeks to lift those around him."

Doug Lyons

Doug Lyons

Actor

"Dan is supportive, knowledgeable and prepared to go above and beyond for those he instructs. By caring so much for us, he has helped to create an atmosphere that makes me excited…"

Dylan Dexter

Dylan Dexter

Lawyer

"Every workshop I've taken at Space on Earth has been incredibly fun and rewarding. I've found these classes great for experimenting and shaking off stringent 'rules' to rediscover…"

Eliza McPhail

Eliza McPhail

Performer

""I’ve been doing Dan’s improv workshops for the past six months. Today I had the chance to do a 1-minute pitch for a funding grant. Instead of my heart thumping out of my chest…"

Elizabeth Gunn

Elizabeth Gunn

Learning Specialist

"Dan Thomas is a standout instructor and facilitator/producer on the indie arts scene. Fellow creatives and I have benefited from Dan’s coaching for improv/acting, podcasting and…"

Gwen W.

Gwen W.

"I've had the pleasure of working with Dan over the last couple of years. Dan is one of the best improv coaches and teachers that I've ever worked with. He has a knack for bringing…"

Hani El-Rafei

Hani El-Rafei

Performer

"Dan is such a great improv coach / instructor. He keeps the classes dynamic, fun and fresh. He explains activities in a clear, direct and simple manner and never has any…"

Helena J.

Helena J.

Improviser

"Dan has an all round great attitude towards learning and growth. He is always determined to get the best out of someone using a kind and caring approach. I can always trust Dan to…"

Indiana Kiely

Indiana Kiely

Performer, Teacher & Coach

"Dan has a fun, gentle and collaborative approach to teaching improv making all who come through feel at ease. He's encouraging but also provides useful feedback and course…"

James Adamson

James Adamson

Improviser

"I cannot speak highly enough of Dan as an improv instructor and as a person. He creates an environment that is relaxing and fun, where improv feels free and joyful. He is…"

Jamie Yung

Jamie Yung

Software Engineer & Performer

"Dan’s drop-ins and workshops are a valuable addition to Melbourne’s Improv offerings. He creates a relaxed, fun and friendly atmosphere. He always chooses great warm ups that…"

Jane W.

Jane W.

Improviser

"Dan's classes really focus on the fun and enjoyment of improv. He takes the time to guide you to be the best you can be. What I've taken out of his classes is to have an opinion…"

Adam Campbell

Adam Campbell

Customer Success Manager

"Dan is a fantastic person to have as an instructor. His classes always have a relaxed environment which makes it easy to approach him to ask questions or advice. He is also warm,…"

Adem Sahin

Adem Sahin

Civil Engineer

"Dan creates a safe space, is reliable and always ensures the classes are fun. Outside of sessions, he has also been a great mentor for advice surrounding the world of improv."

Aileen Ng

Aileen Ng

Artist, Designer & Performer

"Dan is a wonderful, compassionate, talented coach. His insights are wise and you always feel encouraged and rightly pushed. I feel I learnt so much while having our harold team…"

Akhilesh Jain

Akhilesh Jain

Actor

"Dan is a a fantastic teacher - great at tailoring classes to the individual strengths of each performer and group and allowing everyone to shine in their own way. He fosters a…"

Alex Morris

Alex Morris

Improviser

"Each session I've had under Dan's instruction has always been incredibly insightful and fun, the environment he curates for the sessions are always one of trust, and joy. Dan's…"

Angus Roe

Angus Roe

Improviser

"Dan creates a positive, safe, inclusive, encouraging and fun environment across all of his workshops and coaching sessions. I feel highly encouraged to trust myself and my…"

Benzir Siddiqui

Benzir Siddiqui

Corporate worker by day, improviser by night.

"Dan's approach to improv is unique, and outside-the-box. Dan challenges some of the traditional understandings of improv. In doing so, he paves the path for a fresh take on…"

Beray U.

Beray U.

Solicitor

"Dan has an incredible knack for creating environments that foster trust and creativity. Having worked with him on numerous projects across film and design, I've experienced…"

Brendan Pinches

Brendan Pinches

Filmmaker

"I regularly take Dan's workshops, which have become my go-to for improv. The atmosphere is incredibly supportive, fostering a space for exploration, experimentation, and pure joy.…"

Carla Maree

Carla Maree

Improviser

"In addition to being a highly knowledgeable and caring teacher, Dan has a true passion for the community aspect of improv. He creates a safe and fun environment in every training…"

Chris Pahlow

Chris Pahlow

"Dan Thomas is truly one of the all time great improv coaches. He has a fantastic teaching disposition, an incredible knowledge and understanding of improv, and I am grateful for…"

Conor Lynch

Conor Lynch

Performer

"I tried out Dan's 'Breakfast Club' improv drop-in and found the session super helpful as a budding performer. I've been taking regular improv classes so the session was a great…"

Dave Ye

Dave Ye

Improv Student

"Dan’s kindness and passion for creative freedom has an incredibly positive impact on the confidence of performers that he works with. He always seeks to lift those around him."

Doug Lyons

Doug Lyons

Actor

"Dan is supportive, knowledgeable and prepared to go above and beyond for those he instructs. By caring so much for us, he has helped to create an atmosphere that makes me excited…"

Dylan Dexter

Dylan Dexter

Lawyer

"Every workshop I've taken at Space on Earth has been incredibly fun and rewarding. I've found these classes great for experimenting and shaking off stringent 'rules' to rediscover…"

Eliza McPhail

Eliza McPhail

Performer

""I’ve been doing Dan’s improv workshops for the past six months. Today I had the chance to do a 1-minute pitch for a funding grant. Instead of my heart thumping out of my chest…"

Elizabeth Gunn

Elizabeth Gunn

Learning Specialist

"Dan Thomas is a standout instructor and facilitator/producer on the indie arts scene. Fellow creatives and I have benefited from Dan’s coaching for improv/acting, podcasting and…"

Gwen W.

Gwen W.

"I've had the pleasure of working with Dan over the last couple of years. Dan is one of the best improv coaches and teachers that I've ever worked with. He has a knack for bringing…"

Hani El-Rafei

Hani El-Rafei

Performer

"Dan is such a great improv coach / instructor. He keeps the classes dynamic, fun and fresh. He explains activities in a clear, direct and simple manner and never has any…"

Helena J.

Helena J.

Improviser

"Dan has an all round great attitude towards learning and growth. He is always determined to get the best out of someone using a kind and caring approach. I can always trust Dan to…"

Indiana Kiely

Indiana Kiely

Performer, Teacher & Coach

"Dan has a fun, gentle and collaborative approach to teaching improv making all who come through feel at ease. He's encouraging but also provides useful feedback and course…"

James Adamson

James Adamson

Improviser

"I cannot speak highly enough of Dan as an improv instructor and as a person. He creates an environment that is relaxing and fun, where improv feels free and joyful. He is…"

Jamie Yung

Jamie Yung

Software Engineer & Performer

"Dan’s drop-ins and workshops are a valuable addition to Melbourne’s Improv offerings. He creates a relaxed, fun and friendly atmosphere. He always chooses great warm ups that…"

Jane W.

Jane W.

Improviser

"Dan has coached us for over two years now. Not only is he a kind and generous person, he is a wonderful coach! Dan always comes up with new creative exercises to help us push and…"

Jessie Groves

Jessie Groves

Performer

"Dan, is a legend in the improv world, so I want to chat pedagogy of his classes! - The workshops at Space of Earth has egalitarian and elective pricing and geared towards…"

Jonathan B.

Jonathan B.

Improviser

"Dan is a fantastic coach! He is ever patient, insightful and creative. He dedicates a lot of effort into creating fun workshops, unique games and challenges to foster growth and…"

Kimberley Lisle

Kimberley Lisle

Comedian, Improvisor & Actor

"Dan is an amazing instructor with years of experience, and dedicates himself to ensuring the progress, learnings and safety of his students. I would highly recommend working with…"

Lucy Griffin

Lucy Griffin

Writer & Production Manager

"Over the years I have known him, Dan has demonstrated time and again his extraordinary dedication to quality in everything he does. His commitment to fostering community and…"

Madi Savage

Madi Savage

Actor, Writer & Performer

"One of Dan’s greatest strengths is the way in which he is able to use both his knowledge and sensitivity to create a safe space where creatives can experiment with ideas, step…"

Marden Dean

Marden Dean

Cinematographer

"I was encouraged to engage Dan as a coach for the comedy show I produce, Pull Yourself Together. At our first session, I knew he was the right coach for the format. He had planned…"

Marie Katherine

Marie Katherine

Lawyer, Actress & Producer

"Dan is always looking for ways to improve and enhance the improv comedy community and by now I know that whatever he is planning, I want to be part of it. I can't recommend Dan…"

Melissa McGlensey

Melissa McGlensey

Writer, Comedian & Filmmaker

"Dan is passionate about everything he teaches and wants the best for each student in his class. He always creates a safe, fun and creative space for students, to learn, grow and…"

Paul O'Doherty

Paul O'Doherty

Software engineer, Writer & Comedian

"Dan is the best builder of communities, spaces, teams and classes I’ve encountered in improv. He’s an excellent teacher and coach who challenges me every session. He knows just…"

Phillip Dawson

Phillip Dawson

Feedback Researcher

"Dan is a wonderful curator and facilitator. His commitment to creating inclusive and accessible spaces for people to explore and hone their craft and skills is commendable. Not to…"

Ra Chapman

Ra Chapman

Actress, Playwright & Screenwriter

"Dan creates a warm and safe environment to create, explore, experiment, fail, and recover. His knowledge and insights into improv, comedy, and performance run incredibly deep. He…"

Richard Mealey

Richard Mealey

Performer & Writer

"From warmups specifically designed to improve your performances, to giving supportive and encouraging feedback - Dan is a coach that helps actors and improvisers play with…"

Roxie Halley

Roxie Halley

Actor & Director

"I've been a regular at Dan's classes & workshops for some time now because (a) he has created a fun and supportive environment that has such a energy to play in; (b) he knows how…"

Saj De Silva

Saj De Silva

Project Manager & Improviser

"Dan Thomas is a highly experienced creative guide and producer! I've always enjoyed his personal approach to attendees/participants/clients! He keeps things simple and there is…"

Sanjiv Ravi

Sanjiv Ravi

Visitor Experience Guide

"Dan has been a fantastic instructor while doing workshops with him. He has a friendly and calm nature which translates so well when practising the vulnerable art of improv! Dan is…"

Sarah Gare

Sarah Gare

Improviser

"Dan Thomas is a fantastic improv instructor. He creates an inclusive and welcoming environment for all performers and meets people at their own level. His workshops are relaxed…"

Sarah Thornton

Sarah Thornton

Teacher & Performer

"Dan is an incredibly dedicated and insightful improviser and teacher, great at communicating concepts and creating spaces to try new things – and always taking the extra step to…"

Scott Limbrick

Scott Limbrick

Writer & Performer

"Dan creates a very safe space for learning so that everyone in the group can get the most out of the workshop. Sessions are filled but never feel rushed, and Dan is sensitive to…"

Sean Hasselback

Sean Hasselback

Producer and Performer, 'This Just In! Prov'

"Dan has consistently been one of the kindest and most supportive instructors, never failing to provide a safe and encouraging atmosphere to learn and grow. He's warm, welcoming…"

Snow McNally

Snow McNally

Improviser

"Dan brings a wealth of expertise in the improv comedy world. As a coach and instructor, Dan is highly skilled at creating a supportive learning space and fun performing…"

Talia Contini

Talia Contini

Performer & Designer

"I had Dan for my very first improv class in 2019. It's probably Dan that got me hooked. Since then, I've had Dan for structured classes, drop-ins, courses and team coaching. He's…"

Todd Pierce

Todd Pierce

Music, software, writing, improv (smooshed together)

"Participating in workshops with Dan has been an immensely rewarding experience. As an instructor, Dan stands out for his meticulous organization and preparation, ensuring that…"

Yasser Alsaadi

Yasser Alsaadi

Scientist, Comedian & Filmmaker

"Dan has coached us for over two years now. Not only is he a kind and generous person, he is a wonderful coach! Dan always comes up with new creative exercises to help us push and…"

Jessie Groves

Jessie Groves

Performer

"Dan, is a legend in the improv world, so I want to chat pedagogy of his classes! - The workshops at Space of Earth has egalitarian and elective pricing and geared towards…"

Jonathan B.

Jonathan B.

Improviser

"Dan is a fantastic coach! He is ever patient, insightful and creative. He dedicates a lot of effort into creating fun workshops, unique games and challenges to foster growth and…"

Kimberley Lisle

Kimberley Lisle

Comedian, Improvisor & Actor

"Dan is an amazing instructor with years of experience, and dedicates himself to ensuring the progress, learnings and safety of his students. I would highly recommend working with…"

Lucy Griffin

Lucy Griffin

Writer & Production Manager

"Over the years I have known him, Dan has demonstrated time and again his extraordinary dedication to quality in everything he does. His commitment to fostering community and…"

Madi Savage

Madi Savage

Actor, Writer & Performer

"One of Dan’s greatest strengths is the way in which he is able to use both his knowledge and sensitivity to create a safe space where creatives can experiment with ideas, step…"

Marden Dean

Marden Dean

Cinematographer

"I was encouraged to engage Dan as a coach for the comedy show I produce, Pull Yourself Together. At our first session, I knew he was the right coach for the format. He had planned…"

Marie Katherine

Marie Katherine

Lawyer, Actress & Producer

"Dan is always looking for ways to improve and enhance the improv comedy community and by now I know that whatever he is planning, I want to be part of it. I can't recommend Dan…"

Melissa McGlensey

Melissa McGlensey

Writer, Comedian & Filmmaker

"Dan is passionate about everything he teaches and wants the best for each student in his class. He always creates a safe, fun and creative space for students, to learn, grow and…"

Paul O'Doherty

Paul O'Doherty

Software engineer, Writer & Comedian

"Dan is the best builder of communities, spaces, teams and classes I’ve encountered in improv. He’s an excellent teacher and coach who challenges me every session. He knows just…"

Phillip Dawson

Phillip Dawson

Feedback Researcher

"Dan is a wonderful curator and facilitator. His commitment to creating inclusive and accessible spaces for people to explore and hone their craft and skills is commendable. Not to…"

Ra Chapman

Ra Chapman

Actress, Playwright & Screenwriter

"Dan creates a warm and safe environment to create, explore, experiment, fail, and recover. His knowledge and insights into improv, comedy, and performance run incredibly deep. He…"

Richard Mealey

Richard Mealey

Performer & Writer

"From warmups specifically designed to improve your performances, to giving supportive and encouraging feedback - Dan is a coach that helps actors and improvisers play with…"

Roxie Halley

Roxie Halley

Actor & Director

"I've been a regular at Dan's classes & workshops for some time now because (a) he has created a fun and supportive environment that has such a energy to play in; (b) he knows how…"

Saj De Silva

Saj De Silva

Project Manager & Improviser

"Dan Thomas is a highly experienced creative guide and producer! I've always enjoyed his personal approach to attendees/participants/clients! He keeps things simple and there is…"

Sanjiv Ravi

Sanjiv Ravi

Visitor Experience Guide

"Dan has been a fantastic instructor while doing workshops with him. He has a friendly and calm nature which translates so well when practising the vulnerable art of improv! Dan is…"

Sarah Gare

Sarah Gare

Improviser

"Dan Thomas is a fantastic improv instructor. He creates an inclusive and welcoming environment for all performers and meets people at their own level. His workshops are relaxed…"

Sarah Thornton

Sarah Thornton

Teacher & Performer

"Dan is an incredibly dedicated and insightful improviser and teacher, great at communicating concepts and creating spaces to try new things – and always taking the extra step to…"

Scott Limbrick

Scott Limbrick

Writer & Performer

"Dan creates a very safe space for learning so that everyone in the group can get the most out of the workshop. Sessions are filled but never feel rushed, and Dan is sensitive to…"

Sean Hasselback

Sean Hasselback

Producer and Performer, 'This Just In! Prov'

"Dan has consistently been one of the kindest and most supportive instructors, never failing to provide a safe and encouraging atmosphere to learn and grow. He's warm, welcoming…"

Snow McNally

Snow McNally

Improviser

"Dan brings a wealth of expertise in the improv comedy world. As a coach and instructor, Dan is highly skilled at creating a supportive learning space and fun performing…"

Talia Contini

Talia Contini

Performer & Designer

"I had Dan for my very first improv class in 2019. It's probably Dan that got me hooked. Since then, I've had Dan for structured classes, drop-ins, courses and team coaching. He's…"

Todd Pierce

Todd Pierce

Music, software, writing, improv (smooshed together)

"Participating in workshops with Dan has been an immensely rewarding experience. As an instructor, Dan stands out for his meticulous organization and preparation, ensuring that…"

Yasser Alsaadi

Yasser Alsaadi

Scientist, Comedian & Filmmaker

You don't need more theory. You need more clarity.

If you've read this far, you already know what you're looking for: simple approaches that actually work, less time in your head, and more room for your own brilliance to shine. That's exactly what Improv in Practice delivers, one idea at a time.