For over twenty years, Alan Hawkins has taught improv to teens. He now shares an easy-to-follow lesson plan designed for theater teachers and directors.
"Alan is a remarkable improv teacher who brings out the best in every student. His focus on meaningful, dynamic scenes makes the work unforgettable. In just five weeks, he transformed our team from beginners into confident, fearless performers."
- Josh Butchart
"What sets Alan apart from other improv teachers is his ability to assess your best qualities and amplify what you're already good at."
- Anna Miller
"Alan's incredible talent, stage presence, humor, and clear methodology enable him to bring out the best in each of his students."
- Taylor Dahlia Edwards
"Alan Hawkins is the rare bird of improv: he's a great teacher and a wonderful improviser."
- David Razowsky
In You Can't Learn Improv From a Book, Alan Hawkins invites you on an inspiring journey into the art of teaching improvisation to teens-or anyone, for that matter-even if you've never done improv yourself.
This practical guide shows how improv can move beyond comedy into a rich, theater-based practice, becoming a powerful tool for fostering teamwork, building confidence, and unlocking creativity in every student.
Inside, you'll find easy-to-follow exercises and games that make teaching and learning improvisation accessible and fun:

• Game-based exercises with valuable directing insights
• A flexible structure that can serve as a full-year curriculum or be used for individual lessons
• Activities focused on creating experiences rather than rote lessons
• Everything you need to stage a full improv show with your students
• Tools to foster communication, teamwork, and the joy of making each other look good

Alan Hawkins has been performing, directing, and teaching theater and improv since 2004. He is a graduate of The Second City Conservatory, The Second City Musical Improv Conservatory, the iO West Program, the Chicago Comedysportz Training Center, and the Annoyance Program. He has performed at festivals across the U.S. and internationally and is currently an ensemble member of the longest-running Theatersports theater in America: Unexpected Productions in Seattle, Washington.