About the Instructor

Thomas has been performing and teaching improv for over 30 years, bringing a wealth of experience to every class he leads. Having taught improv at the college level and as part of a theater ensemble, he is passionate about helping others discover the joy, creativity, and connection that improv fosters.

His improv journey began in 1991 as a member of a co-op theater in Hollywood, CA, where he trained under James Bailey, the owner of ComedySportz Los Angeles. Over the next two years, he continued his training at the West Coast Ensemble before moving to Portland in 1993. There, he became part of the newly formed ComedySportz Portland, where he performed for nearly two decades. During this time, he also performed with the first long form improv group at ComedySportz Portland, Your Other Left.

Thomas has continued to refine his craft through extensive training with coaches in Portland and international instructors from Australia, the Netherlands, and Finland. His performance credits include notable Portland-based groups such as Peachy Chicken and Impact, the latter of which was featured at the Impro Festival in Los Angeles in 2020. Most recently, he has performed with Bridge City Improv and directed their holiday show in 2023.

With over three decades of experience, Thomas brings deep knowledge, thoughtful instruction, and an infectious love for improv to every class. His approach is rooted in generosity, gratitude, and the belief that everyone has the ability to be fully present and engaged in creative play.