Five Star Gift Ideas

For a mother who enjoys taking improv classes, I have a few thoughtful gift ideas that she would surely appreciate. These suggestions are tailored to enhance her improvisation skills, provide inspiration, and add a touch of creativity to her life outside the classroom.

1. Improv Workshop or Retreat: Surprise your mom with an improv workshop or retreat experience. This could be an opportunity for her to expand her skills, learn from seasoned improvisers, and connect with other like-minded individuals. Look for reputable improv theaters or studios in your area that offer workshops or retreats and select the one that aligns with her interests.

2. Improv Books: Enhance your mother's improvisation knowledge with some informative and inspiring books. "Improvisation for the Theater" by Viola Spolin is considered a classic in the field and provides a comprehensive guide to improv techniques. Other great reads include "Impro" by Keith Johnstone, which explores the philosophy behind improvisation, or "Truth in Comedy" by Charna Halpern, Del Close, and Kim "Howard" Johnson, which offers insights into the famous long-form improv style used at The Second City.

3. Improv Tools: Help your mom practice her improv skills at home with some handy tools. Consider gifting her a set of improv dice or cards that prompt different scenarios, characters, or emotions. These tools can be a fun way for her to generate ideas and simulate improv exercises whenever she wants to practice or challenge herself creatively. Another option is a small portable whiteboard or a notebook specifically dedicated to capturing and refining improv ideas.

4. Improv-themed Apparel: Encourage your mom to showcase her love for improv with some stylish and comfortable clothing. Look for t-shirts or hoodies that feature improv-related quotes or illustrations. If you're feeling particularly creative, you can even design a custom shirt or hoodie using one of her favorite improv sayings or inside jokes from her classes.

5. Improv Journal: Provide your mom with a dedicated space to record her thoughts, reflections, and improv experiences. Look for a beautiful journal that resonates with her personality and style. Include a heartfelt note on the first page to express your support and encouragement for her improv journey. This journal can become a treasured keepsake that she can look back on in the years to come.

Remember, the most important aspect of a gift is the thought and consideration behind it. By selecting a gift that aligns with your mom's interest in improv, you are not only celebrating her passion but also showing her how much you care about her happiness and personal growth.

Or you can get her a star map with the date when she gave birth to you.