So you have some burning questions about PHIT? Well you've come to the right place! Hopefully these FAQ answer all of your questions. If they don't - or if you demand human interaction before you commit to class feel free to contact PHIT with your unanswered concerns.
How big are classes?
Our goal is always to have a large enough group to let people mix around and interact with several different classmates, but we also want to keep classes small enough that we can give you the personal attention you deserve. To balance both these goals PHIT doesn't run a class with less than 7 people or more than 12. If you go to New York or Chicago you'll get classes with 20 people where the teacher never learns your name. We never liked it when we were in big classes, so we're not going to do that to our students.
Where do classes meet?
Since PHIT doesn't have a permanent space of its own yet, our classes meet in various locations around the city - typically in either Center City or near South Street. You will always be notified of the exact location for your class a few days before the first meeting (unless you try to sneak into a class at the last minute, then you'll be notified as soon as we see your registration).
How much do classes cost?
We have three prices for our classes. 8-week classes (our core cirriculum) cost $150. Our 4-week elective classes are $75. Workshops are between $35-50.
What qualifications do I need to take a class?
To take our Level 1 class you need to fulfill two requirements. First, you must be interested in learning improv (you should fulfill that one pretty easily if you're reading this)! Second, you need to be at least 18 years old. PHIT will occasionally make exceptions to the age requirement - but you need to contact us to discuss this possibility. We hope to add a teen program, and even a younger children's improv class, soon.
Do I have to start with Level 1?
NO! Other theaters like to make everyone start at the beginning of their program. They like to stress that you can always brush up on fundamentals. They like to... make money. While PHIT isn't opposed to making money, we also appreciate that a lot of people come to us with a lot of improv experience already. If you want to skip out of some levels, contact us and let's talk. We'll figure out where to place you (maybe our 4-week refresher course, probably Level 2, if you're really awesome we'll let you take Level 3).
Come on, please can I skip Level 1? I've taken lessons before and been in a group for years (and we're really funny!)...
We already said okay! We're not like other theaters, remember? Seriously, stop whining and just contact us so we can figure out how far ahead to skip you.
How can I pay for class?
When you register for class on the website you'll have the option of paying with PayPal. We really prefer this because it automatically gives you a record of your payment and there are no stamps or bounced checks to deal with. That said, if you are scared that paying online will lead to your identity being stolen and your good name being sullied with your credit reporting agency you can always send us a check.
What's the class refund policy?
Up to one week before a class starts you can ask for a full refund. From one week before class starts until the start of the second class we will refund you the cost of your class minus $20 (since by this time we have already paid our fixed costs for renting space, etc.). After the second class has met there are no refunds.
What if I miss a class? Are there makeups?
Don't miss class. Since PHIT is a small school at the moment it is unlikely there will be a class of the same level offered at a different time to allow for a makeup. If a class of the same level is being offered at another time we will try to arrange for a makeup, but we make no guarantees (allowing an extra student into class is always left to the discretion of the teacher, who can say no).
What's the school's policy on snow days?
PHIT loves snow, but we always say that forgetting how bad it can be when we want to have class and our students can't make it. Sometimes our winter classes have to be cancelled when we get a heavy snow fall - in these cases a makeup class is added, on the same day of the week and time as the class normally meets and one week after class normally ends.
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