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This fall, spontaneity, laughter, and connection take center stage at the second annual Diablo Improv Festival (DIF), a three-day celebration of unscripted theater at the Lesher Center for the Arts in downtown Walnut Creek.
Whether you're a seasoned improviser, a comedy fan, or simply improv curious, DIF is an opportunity to see great live improv, try it for yourself, and become part of a welcoming creative community. No experience is necessary. Just a willingness to play!
COME FOR A SHOW. STAY FOR THE WEEKEND.
You don't have to be an improviser to enjoy the Diablo Improv Festival. Come see a show, take a workshop, jump into a jam, or make a weekend of it.
Special festival packages make it easy to experience more while saving money.
WATCH IT. LEARN IT. PLAY IT
The Diablo Improv Festival is presented by Spontaneous Mind, DKW Productions, Synergy Theater and The Lesher Center for the Arts.
CHECK OUT OUR ENTIRE WEEKEND LINEUP OF SHOWS, WORKSHOPS, AND JAMS!
Diablo Improv Festival: Workshop "Character Crash Course"
- Date: 10/17/2026 11:10 AM - 1:10 PM
- Location: Lesher Center for the Arts
1601 Civic Drive
Walnut Creek, California 94596 - Introduction: A Diablo Improv Festival Workshop with Navaris Darson
About this Workshop
Everything you need to know about Groundlings-style character!
This comprehensive overview of character-based improv focuses on defining and creating funny yet believable Groundlings-style improv characters, fueling character comedy within scenes, and exploring relationships.
Experience Level
For intermediate and advanced level improvisers: Students should possess a solid degree of proficiency with improv fundamentals.
About the Instructor
Navaris Darson is a Sunday Company alum and senior-level improv instructor who has been teaching at The Groundlings Theatre & School in LA since 2013. Within the past few years, Navaris has also taught improv at USC and UCLA as well as Verve Studios in Arizona; he’s served as a featured instructor and performer at ITS Comedy Festival 2024 (Sydney), SAVI FEST 2025 (Arizona), and Camp Improv Utopia West 2025 (California); and in 2026, he’s taught at various theatres, schools, and festivals in Australia, New Zealand, and all across the US.
Prepare to be inspired, delighted, and entertained at the Diablo Improv Festival. Laugh while you learn at improv workshops designed for all ages and experience levels, meet new friends, cultivate creative collaborations, and enjoy unforgettable performances from top-notch improvisers who take the craft to the next level.
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