Improv

Ben is passionate about improv.

More than any other class or professional development experience, improvisation transformed how Ben thinks, teaches, collaborates, and leads. He began “officially” improvising in January 2020—an ironic and formative time to fall in love with a group art form just before a global pandemic. What started as a creative outlet quickly became a parallel discipline to his academic life: a training ground for listening, adaptability, clarity of thought, and courageous communication.

Ben has trained with and learned from a range of respected improv institutions, including an Improv for Scientists class, Monkey Business Institute, Atlas Improv Company, iO Theater in Chicago, and The Second City. Through classes, intensives, and workshops, he has studied longform structure (including Harold and montage), character work, grounded scene work, and ensemble-building. These experiences shaped his belief that improv is not simply about being funny—it is about building something meaningful together in real time.

At the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Ben has taught and guest lectured on improv as a tool for communication, collaboration, and leadership. He has led workshops for scientists, students, and professionals on topics such as improv for science communication, applied improv for teamwork, and thinking on your feet. His approach blends performance rigor with psychological safety: high standards, high reps, and deep respect for the vulnerability required to create in the moment.

In 2024, Ben founded Amalgam Improv with a clear vision: to help build a thriving indie improv ecosystem in Madison. Though small, Amalgam is a space where experienced improvisers can continue to train, experiment, and perform at a high level, while still remaining welcoming to newcomers.

Amalgam produces a range of events designed to serve different stages of an improviser’s journey. Its monthly jam series includes Open Jams (welcoming all levels), Femme Jams (a femme-identifying space designed as an accessible entry point), Longform Team Open Mics (low-stakes performance opportunities for new and veteran teams), Lab Night Jams (experimental formats and team structures), and themed Special Jams throughout the year.

Beyond jams, Amalgam produces ticketed shows that highlight indie longform improv, science-infused comedy performances, and collaborative variety experiences. Ben has helped develop and host concept-driven shows that blend research talks with improvisation, spotlight emerging teams, and create performance opportunities outside traditional theater hierarchies. Each event is designed not just as entertainment, but as ecosystem-building—connecting performers, audiences, and future collaborators.

Ben sees improv as both art and infrastructure. On stage, it is alive, surprising, and human. Off stage, it is systems-building: creating consistent jam schedules, developing facilitator guides, mentoring performers, and building digital tools that help the community grow. His long-term goal is to expand access, increase diversity within the Madison improv scene, and create sustainable, high-quality spaces for performers to stretch beyond “getting laughs” toward building resonant, ensemble-driven work.

Improv sharpened Ben’s ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity and warmth. It strengthened his internal sense of timing and structure. It made him more comfortable with uncertainty. And perhaps most importantly, it gave him a community.

Want to see a show, join a jam, or learn more? Visit the Amalgam Improv website and come play. Interested in a workshop to improve your communication? Check out the Workshops page.