Stevie Ray’s Improv Company was founded in 1989 to use improvisation as a performance art as well as a training tool. The company operated its own performance spaces in Minneapolis from 1989-1993, at which time the organization chose to offer performances at various venues throughout the Twin Cities. In 2009 it moved its performances and classes to the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres; leasing a space in the Chanhassen complex.

Most people are familiar with improvisation—or improv—only as a comedic art, however improvisation has its roots as a tool for education. In the late 1930s a group of educators and psychologists developed interactive teaching techniques called Game Theory of Education. Stevie Ray’s Improv Company made this approach a cornerstone in its mission to improve people’s lives by teaching valuable real-world skills.

Stevie Ray: Co-Founder and Executive Director, handles the daily operations of the company, and conducts keynotes and workshops across the country. Pamela Mayne: Co-Founder and Director of Operations, oversees the overall operations of the company. Joseph Harstad, Artistic Director, oversees public performances and the School of Improv.

The mission of Stevie Ray’s Improv Company is to:

Be an access to the performing arts for residents of the Twin Cities, especially those who would not otherwise be served by the arts community, by providing training, education, and performance opportunities.

Make our services available to all, with a goal of diversity of race, age, sex, cultural background, and socio-economic status, regardless of theatrical experience.

Provide the general public and special needs groups with classes and seminars on the techniques of improvisation for personal growth or performance training.

 Use the techniques of improvisation to improve the quality of life in the community by enhancing communication skills,   confidence, and self-esteem.

 Provide an opportunity for new local artists to learn and develop through on-stage experimentation and educational programs.