The Power of Improv for People Experiencing Homelessness

When people think of improvisation, they often picture a stage, a spotlight, and a comedy show. But applied improvisation is something deeper and more transformative; it’s about building trust, connection, and resilience through playful, collaborative exercises that mirror the challenges of real life. And for people experiencing homelessness, it can be a powerful tool for healing, empowerment, and community.

What Is Applied Improvisation?

Applied improvisation uses the principles of improv theater—like “yes, and,” active listening, and co-creation—to foster skills like adaptability, empathy, and creative problem-solving. Unlike performance improv, the goal isn’t to be funny; it’s to practice being present, responding constructively to uncertainty, and connecting authentically with others.

Why It Matters for People Experiencing Homelessness

Homelessness can strip people of their voice, confidence, and sense of belonging. Isolation, trauma, and daily uncertainty take a toll on mental health and self-esteem. Applied improvisation offers a safe, low-pressure space to:

1. Build Confidence and Agency

Improv games ask participants to speak up, take risks, and trust their instincts—often in a room full of people cheering them on. For someone who has been ignored or overlooked, being seen and heard in this way can be deeply affirming.

2. Foster Connection and Community

Improvisation is built on collaboration. In every exercise, participants must listen, respond, and support each other. This shared play builds trust and reminds participants they’re not alone.

3. Practice Flexibility and Problem-Solving

Improvisation strengthens the mental “muscles” that help people respond creatively to change—a vital skill when navigating the unpredictable realities of life without stable housing.

4. Encourage Emotional Expression and Joy

Many people experiencing homelessness carry trauma that’s hard to verbalize. Improv offers an outlet for emotions, laughter, and self-expression—often unlocking joy that hasn’t surfaced in a long time.

5. Promote Self-Worth and Identity

By encouraging participants to bring their ideas, voices, and experiences into the room, applied improv reinforces the message: You matter. You have something to contribute.

Real-World Impact

Programs across the country have successfully brought applied improvisation into shelters, recovery centers, and transitional housing programs. Participants have reported increased optimism, stronger communication skills, and greater willingness to engage in job training or counseling services. Facilitators have seen firsthand how a few hours of playful interaction can help someone reclaim a sense of humanity and hope.

"The homeless tend to feel invisible.... Out on the streets, even in a place as small as Winchester, people tend to look past them, not at them. Roaring like a wild beast in a skit about animals in the woods 'gives them a chance to be heard in a way they have never had before.'" Improv class at homeless shelter gives clients a chance to be seen and heard, Lexington Herald-Leader, Sept 19, 2016, https://www.kentucky.com/news/local/counties/clark-county/article102027642.html.

"One individual (out of respect for privacy, names are not provided) shared with the class that he had overdosed the night before.... 'I knew I could have stayed in bed tonight, but I remember what you said about saying yes to life so I wanted to say ‘yes’ to getting up and coming here tonight.'" How saying ‘Yes, and …’ is helping veterans who are experiencing homelessness, VCU News, Nov 11, 2022, https://news.vcu.edu/article/2022/11/how-saying-yes-and--is-helping-veterans-who-are-experiencing-homelessness.

A Tool for Transformation

Applied improvisation isn’t a cure-all, but it is a gentle, engaging, and dignity-affirming way to meet people where they are. It doesn’t ask for perfection, just participation. And sometimes, showing up and saying “yes, and” is the first step toward imagining something better.

Drafted by AI, edited by a human.