I’m finally taking an improv class. Am I nervous? Yes, and excited. Improv comedy may be Chicago’s most important export, and is such a big part of cultural life in the city. Everybody knows somebody who is or has been deep in the improv game, moving up the levels at Second City, etc. Spending my 20s and 30s in Chicago, I always expected I’d eventually try it. Now I’m 35 and have time now, so it feels like now or never. Of course I’m not trying for SNL or anything. But I wanted to experience this part of Chicago’s culture before this phase of my life is over.

I did a little research on which class to take, but ultimately selected the program offered by my favorite place to see shows, the iO Theater. Last night was my first class, and I almost chickened out. But one of my rules for the sabbatical is to move toward the things that are scary. Mostly I was worried I’d be obviously the oldest person there, which wasn’t the case.

It was a blast. Uncomfortable in the right ways, and supportive in the right ways. Our teacher Sarah has a practiced but natural command of the room, obviously developed during her many hours onstage. She’s funny, obviously. Her advice to me after my first practice scene: “Make bigger choices.” I’m looking forward to the next eight weeks!