What Are Improv Jobs at Summer Camp?

Improv Jobs at Summer Camps

Improv jobs at summer camps are a perfect fit for working improvisers, sketch comedians, and theater pros who love teaching kids the magic of “yes, and.” From traditional sleepaway camps offering weekly improv electives to specialty performing arts residential camps running serious comedy training, improv instructors create one of the most joyful and confidence-building programs of the summer.

As an improv instructor at an overnight camp, you’ll teach foundational games, short-form formats, long-form structure, and basic scene work while running showcases at the end of each session. You’ll partner with drama, theater, and music staff on cross-program comedy nights and themed events. Many co-ed residential camps integrate improv into broader theater programs, giving multi-discipline performers a creative summer of teaching, performing, and laughing.

What does an improv instructor at summer camp do?

You’ll teach improv games, short and long-form formats, and scene work while leading showcases. Most sleepaway camps with improv programs run daily classes throughout the summer camp season.

What background works best for improv jobs at sleepaway camps?

Theater training, improv school experience (UCB, Second City, iO, Annoyance, ImprovOlympic), and working comedy backgrounds are ideal. Comfort with kids and great group facilitation matter most at residential camps.

Is improv a standalone role or part of theater?

Both. Specialty performing arts camps may have dedicated improv instructors, while traditional co-ed residential camps often fold improv into broader drama programs led by theater staff with comedy backgrounds.

What does the pay look like for improv jobs at summer camps?

Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience. Overnight camps include room, board, and laundry alongside salary, which makes the overall summer camp package meaningfully more valuable than the base figure.

Are improv roles a good entry into theater work at camp?

Yes — improv is a fantastic entry point into camp theater. Many drama specialists, theater directors, and program leads at sleepaway camps got their start running improv games and small showcases at residential camps.