Teens Let Loose at Ossining Library Improv Class

OSSINING, N.Y. – Getting up on stage in front of strangers can be frightening for most people, but teens from Ossining, Croton, Briarcliff and other Westchester areas in the Ossining Public Library’s Teen Comedy Improv Class say they love it.

“I love acting and improv is even better,” said Sara Margolis, 15, of Ossining. “It’s really fun to do something that’s outside of who you are because you get to try something new.”

But Margolis isn’t the only one coming to the library’s program from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays at the Budarz Theatre. Teacher and Library Teen Services programmer Catherine Reidel said the class often has at least a dozen students. The improvisational acting class features acting games that allow teens to think on their feet and come up with ideas on stage spontaneously. 

“The idea was to give the kids some new experiences in theatre and get on the stage,” said Reidel, who also works with the Croton Academy of the Arts. “They have a ton of fun with it and it’s great to see.”

For many of the students, the class helps build confidence like no other program can offer them. 

“I really like getting that confidence because it’s not scary, it’s fun,” said Claire Sukumar of Ossining. “It’s challenging but easy to have fun with and it’s a really great time getting better at it.” 

Ethan Kravitz, 15, of Croton, said he’s already finding more confidence in giving speeches in class. 

“There’s a lot here you can use outside of here like at a job,” Kravitz said. “It’s going to help with interviews to make you more relaxed and confident.” 

Kravitz’s advice for anyone new to improv is to not be shy.

“It’s a lot more fun if you don’t care and just get into it,” Kravitz said.

Those looking for more information are asked to either attend a class at the Budarz Theatre at 53 Croton Ave. or call the Ossining Public Library at (914) 941-2416 ext. 336. 

 

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