By Jeff Vazzana
Teacher Amy Perras has launched a dynamic and engaging improvisational comedy program at Oak Lawn Community High School.
The initiative featured talented students such as Safa Ali, Latifa Almatahen, Emily Butnariu, Austin Christensen, Bobby Davies, Nate Diaz, Emma Faucault-Miller, Juno Granados, Quinn Haywood, Collin Kalousek, Omar Marquez, and Amal Shariff.
Improv comedy offers numerous psychological benefits, including increased creativity, brain connectivity, confidence, and reduced stress. As Perras says, “It’s cheaper than therapy!”
The program showcased Perras’ dedication to creating a supportive environment where students can practice and hone their speech and acting skills. Integrating improv comedy into the classroom allows students to build self-confidence and strengthen interpersonal skills.
Students who are interested in performing improv in the future, or developing their performance skills, should sign up for Perras’ Speech and Drama class, an English elective offered to junior and senior students.