Awkward Face

07/15/2025

🌟 TONIGHT @ 7PM!
🎭 Take the stage at Pan Theater — auditions for our House Improv Teams are fun, fast, and free.

✅ No experience needed
💥 Big laughs, bold choices
🎟️ Space is limited — show up early!

📍 120 Frank Ogawa Plaza, Oakland
🚪 Doors open 7 PM
🎉 Be part of something hilarious.

08/17/2024

It finally happened today! I arrived at Yaoko early enough to snag some delicious dorayaki before they sold out. I’ve got enough to last me three days, but I’m sticking to my one-per-day limit.

After days of trying, it feels like a well-deserved post-typhoon treat. It’s been so, so rainy in Tokyo lately, but this small victory made it all worthwhile.

This experience reminded me of something important: persistence. Whether it’s getting your hands on a dorayaki or mastering a new skill, showing up consistently is key.

One of our most beloved alumni taught us this lesson. She didn't attend the first improv class she signed up for. But she tried again the next class. Slowly, with each class, she grew more confident.

Despite her initial fear, she kept showing up, and over time, she became the star of our Saturday shows and one of Pan’s favorite teachers.

Her journey wasn’t easy or fast, but it was worth it. She didn’t give up, and neither should you.

08/15/2024

When I’m in Japan, I often get Dorayakis. Not just any will do—I don’t care much for the ones from 7-11 or Lawsons. I like the ones from Yaoko.

If you don’t know what a Dorayaki is, it’s two little pancakes with anko (red bean paste) in the middle. It’s sweet but not too sweet, and I seem to be moderately addicted to them.

But when we went shopping on Sunday night, I hesitated. Instead of going straight to the bakery section, I wandered around looking at the sake. Sunday was a busy night, with Monday being Mountain.

When I circled back with our food cart, the horror! There were no more Dorayaki!

The lesson learned: don’t hesitate when you know you want something.

06/21/2024

Pan Theater alumni Betsy Aaron is making a film. You can find out about the project and support it here:

An off-kilter comedy that explores how unexpressed grief can turn into unhealthy obsession. The Pigeon follows a depressed woman reeling from the death of her friend who tries to heal. But instead of feeling her big painful feelings, she becomes obsessed with getting rid of her backyard pigeon.

04/07/2024

Improv has changed my life through the years. I started practicing and performing improv in 2000. In 2002, we started an improv theater in downtown Oakland - Pan Theater.

Keeping a theater running through a financial crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and just the usual economic cycles has been a challenge.

So many San Francisco Bay Area theaters have closed over the past few years - The Exit, Piano Fight, Flight Deck, and many others. We kept theater alive in downtown Oakland by focusing on being a community improv theater.

Thousands of people have studied improv at Pan. Some have used their skills to improve their work skills. Others have applied for MFA programs in theater, started their theater groups, or pursued performing in LA, Chicago, and NY. Others have also found more creativity and positivity in their daily life.

Several of our performers have written plays, books, or even movies.

The improv guide I wrote to help beginners has been quoted in books, used in classes, and referenced in various articles. The Rules of Improv I and II have helped a lot of people in the past twenty years or so.

One of the things I wish is that I started improving sooner.

While I can`t go back in time to do that, I realized that we could help Oakland teens start exploring improv and filmmaking. We can provide the opportunity for a new generation.

Pan Theater will offer our first Teen Improv and Filmmaking Summer School this summer.

The goal is to introduce the skills to local teens so they can explore their creativity and learn the power of yes and. We can make a difference for a few local teens by providing a positive, creative outlet.

Our goal is to offer 60 scholarships to the program. Similar programs run about $500 for a four-week class. We plan on offering the classes for $50 per four-week class.

We want to Empower Oakland Teens with the power of improv and help them learn to say yes to their dreams.

If you know any local teachers or teens interested in the program, please help spread the word. You can find out more about the program here:
https://www.pantheater.com/teen-improv-classes-oakland-pan-theater.html

04/05/2024

Improv isn't just about comedy; it's about transforming lives. At Pan Theater, we've witnessed the profound impact it can have - from fostering teamwork to enhancing communication skills.

That's why we're thrilled to announce our Teen Improv and Filmmaking Summer Schools, aimed at empowering local teens with invaluable skills for life and art.

We believe in the power of saying "yes" to opportunities, and we hope you'll join us in spreading the word about this incredible chance for teens in our community.

Here's how you can help:
Encourage teens to apply for our Teen Improv and Filmmaking Summer Schools.

Classes:
https://www.pantheater.com/teen-improv-classes-oakland-pan-theater.html

Scholarship Campaign:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/empower-oakland-teens-with-improv-and-filmmaking
Share our scholarship campaign with your network.
Consider donating to support our cause.

Each $200 raised will sponsor one teen for the summer. To learn more or contribute, visit Summer School Scholarship Campaign.
Thank you for your support in transforming lives through the art of improv and filmmaking.

Sincerely,

David

Pan Theater

03/18/2024

We're offering low cost improv and filmmaking classes to Oakland teens this summer.

Check out and share the GoFundMe. Our goal is to offer 20 scholarships to each class. Classes will be offered in June and June this summer.

Join us in supporting an 8-week Improv and Filmmaking Program for Oaklan… David Alger needs your support for Empower Oakland Teens with Improv and Filmmaking!

10/31/2023

Sorry for the delayed campaign update.
I received an email from Keith earlier today.

Keith is slowly recovering from being assaulted and his recovery is taking longer than first anticipated. Due to loss in wages and increased medical costs the fundraising goal has been increased to $6000.

Your support is appreciated. If you haven't already, please help spread the word about the fundraiser.

Keith has not returned to improv yet. He still has paperwork and medical appointments he is taking care of. He hasn't resumed work yet and was told to focus on his medical recovery in the short term.

Thank you for your support.

Pan Theater is sponsoring this GoFund Me for Keith. Keith has been an acti… David Alger needs your support for Stand with Keith: Restoring Hope After Assault

10/22/2023

Pan Theater is sponsoring this GoFund Me for Keith. Keith has been an active performer at Pan Theater for over three years. He has just recently started teaching. Approximately 2 weeks ago he was brutally attacked in East Oakland.

Keith Marquez GoFundme:https://www.gofundme.com/f/stand-with-keith-restoring-hope-after-assault

09/06/2023

Jaime Moyer is in Oakland this Friday

🌟 Join us on September 8th as we present an electrifying interview show featuring the incredible Jaime Moyer – a night that promises entertainment, inspiration, and a unique chance to learn from a true industry icon! 🌟

🎤 Have you ever wondered how an actress becomes a household name and an improv coach revered across the country? Jaime Moyer's journey is one that encapsulates the magic of both worlds. From her remarkable work voicing characters on Bob's Burgers to her recurring roles on sitcoms like AP Bio and Modern Family, her career is a testament to talent and dedication. 📺🎙️

Immerse yourself in an evening of laughter and insight as Jaime takes center stage, sharing her personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories, and the invaluable lessons she's learned throughout her journey. You'll be captivated by her experiences on hit shows like Parks and Recreation, The Big Show Show, and many more.

The show will include Jaime`s famous improvised Solo Form and improvised scenes with Jaime and the show hosts.

🗣️ And don't forget, this night isn't just about sitting back and enjoying the show – you'll have the unique opportunity to engage in a dynamic Q&A session with Jaime herself. Ask her about the art of improvisation, the intricacies of acting, and how to carve your own path in the entertainment industry. Her wisdom and insights are yours to tap into! 🎭🎟️

🎟️ Secure your seat now at Pan Theater, a vibrant hub of creativity in Oakland, just moments away from the BART station at 120 Frank Ogawa Plaza. For almost two decades, Pan Theater has been at the forefront of improv entertainment and education, bringing laughter and inspiration to countless audiences. 🏙️🚇

💰 Tickets for this enriching 80 minute show are only $20 – a small price to pay for the chance to witness the magic of Jaime Moyer's career and to learn directly from her wealth of expertise. Whether you're an aspiring performer, a seasoned artist, or simply a lover of great entertainment, this evening promises something truly exceptional. 😄🎫

🎭🤩 Secure your tickets now and be part of an extraordinary night with Jaime Moyer at Pan Theater on September 8th! This is your chance to laugh, learn, and light up your night! 🤩🎭
Online tickkets $20. Door tickets $30 cash only, if available.
Get tickets here:

Join us on September 8th as we present an electrifying interview show featuring the incredible Jaime Moyer. Improv, Q and A and more live.

08/12/2023

Sunday Improv Dojo with Sara Elovich
Unleash your potential and embrace the joy of improv alongside the dynamic Sarah Elovich. Join us at the Improv Dojo for an unforgettable experience!

Why Sarah Elovich?
A master in the art of storytelling and communications, Sarah's passion for improv shines at Pan Theater. She knows how to bring out the true you through improv, and now you have the chance to learn from the best.

What's in Store?
Improv Dojo is more than a class – it's your gateway to boosted confidence, creative expression, and endless laughter. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just curious, Sarah's guidance will empower you.

Pre-register here:
https://www.pantheater.com/improv-dojo-class-near-me-oakland-pan-theater.html

Where:
Pan Theater - 120 Frank Ogawa Plaza, Oakland, CA 94612. Just 30 seconds from BART.
When?
Sunday, August 13th, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm.
Join Us:
Don't miss out on this opportunity to unlock your creative potential and connect with a community of like-minded individuals. $20 cash at the door.

More on Sarah here:
https://www.sarahelovich.com