Creating Improvised Characters with Frank Caeti

This workshop focuses on building interesting improvised characters. Using a simple approach of one choice at the top and subsequent nuanced choices as the scene proceeds leads to memorable characters and informs vocal quality, point of view, want, and disposition. When we become the character, content choices become easier, and scenes get more fun!

Prerequisite: Some improv experience helpful but not necessary.

Frank Caeti is a native of the Chicago suburbs, went to high school and college in Colorado, and currently resides in Los Angeles where he acts, improvises, writes, directs, and teaches anywhere they will let him. He is an performer and director alumnus of The Second City National Touring Company and resident companies in Las Vegas and Chicago. As well as multiple Second City Theatricals including productions at The Kennedy Center, La Jolla Playhouse, and Kansas City’s Starlight Theater.

Frank was a series regular and contributing writer on the long-running FOX show MADtv. Other television credits include: Modern Family, Key and Peele, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Adam Ruins Everything, Chicago Fire, Reno 911, NCIS, and over three dozen commercials. Regional theater credits as a performer and director include: Kennedy Center, Goodman Theatre, Kirk Douglas Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, Laguna Playhouse, and Dallas Theater Center. Improv credits include: UCB LA, Westside Comedy Theater, iO, and Comedy Sportz.

Frank co-wrote a web series produced by Key and Peele for Disney Digital, which was developed into a television series by Sacha Baron Cohen’s Four by Two Films. Frank has developed with Sony Pictures Television, written for Warner Bros.’ Animation, and written plays that have premiered in Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC, and Off-Broadway.

Frank currently teaches at California Institute of the Arts’ School of Theater, El Camino College, Westside Comedy Theater, and Improv LA. He is also currently earning an MFA in Screenwriting from Emerson College.