What you need for an improvisation workshop

An improvisation workshop needs more than chairs and a few games. You need a flexible room setup, visible timing, writing materials and simple props that participants can handle safely. Plan seating for every registered participant, then add the supplies needed for registration, exercises, refreshments and catering. Check equipment at least one day beforehand so missing chargers, cables or tableware do not delay the start.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Chairsqty 36
Foldable tablesqty 6
Buffet tablesqty 2
Tableclothsqty 8

Equipment

Portable speaker
Microphone
Extension cordsqty 3
Power stripsqty 3
Timerqty 2
Laptop
Chargersqty 3

Paper goods

Flip chart
Flip chart sheetsqty 2
Notepadsqty 36
Pensqty 40
Name badgesqty 40
Sticky notesqty 6
Colored cardsqty 100
Markersqty 24

Workshop materials

Propsqty 30
Soft practice ballsqty 6
Scarvesqty 12
Basketsqty 4

Tableware

Glassesqty 40
Coffee cupsqty 36
Platesqty 40
Cutlery setsqty 40
Serving plattersqty 8
Serving spoonsqty 6

Kitchen

Coffee maker
Kettlesqty 2
Coolersqty 2
Thermos flasksqty 3
Cutting boardsqty 2
Bread knivesqty 2
Kitchen knivesqty 2
Pliersqty 4
Bottle openersqty 2

Cleaning

Waste binsqty 4
Bucketsqty 2
Mopsqty 2
Broom and dustpanqty 2
Cleaning glovesqty 4
Hand soap dispensersqty 2

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 2 packs
- Tea - 3 boxes
- Sugar - 1 kilo
- Milk - 6 liters
- Oat milk - 3 liters
- Lemons - 8 pieces
- Still water - 8 bottles
- Sparkling water - 8 bottles
- Cola - 6 bottles
- Cola Zero - 6 bottles
- Sinas - 4 bottles
- Apple juice - 4 packs
- Orange juice - 4 cartons
- Ice cubes - 6 bags
- Sandwich rolls - 45 pieces
- Whole grain bread - 4 loaves
- Herb cream cheese - 1 kilo
- Young cheese - 1,5 kilo
- Hummus - 1 kilo
- Vegetarian spread - 4 tubs
- Chicken breast topping - 1 kilo
- Boiled eggs - 24 pieces
- Lettuce - 4 heads
- Cucumbers - 6 pieces
- Tomatoes - 2 kilos
- Bell peppers - 8 pieces
- Carrots - 2 kilo
- Grapes - 2 kilos
- Apples - 40 pieces
- Bananas - 30 pieces
- Paprika chips - 4 bags
- Plain chips - 4 bags
- Tortilla chips - 4 bags
- Salsa - 4 jars
- Mixed nuts - 2 kilos
- Cookies - 5 packs
- Brownies - 40 pieces
- Mayonnaise - 1 bottle
- Ketchup - 1 bottle
- Olive oil - 1 bottle
- Salt - 1 pack
- Pepper - 1 grinder
- Paper napkins - 200 pieces
- Paper towels - 4 rolls
- Toilet paper - 24 rolls
- Trash bags - 2 rolls
- Dish soap - 2 bottles
- All-purpose cleaner - 2 bottles
- Dishwasher tablets - 40 pieces
- Sponges - 6 pieces
- Disinfectant wipes - 2 packs

Tips

Set out one chair per participant in a circle, with a few spare chairs available. Keep foldable tables and buffet tables at the side so the exercise space stays clear.
Prepare one name badge, notepad and pen per participant, plus at least 10% extra. Keep name badges and pens at the entrance for registration.
Use a timer that is easy for the facilitator to see. Test the laptop, portable speaker, microphone, extension cords and power strips before participants arrive.
Match props and exercise materials to the selected activities rather than buying random extras. Keep soft exercise balls, scarves, baskets and coloured cards together in labelled containers.
For catering, count one glass, coffee cup, plate and cutlery set per person, then add 10% spare tableware. Put serving platters and serving spoons out before the food arrives, and chill drinks ahead of the workshop.

Frequently asked questions

What do I need to buy for an improvisation workshop?: Plan for seating, tables, name badges, notepads, pens, flip-chart paper, sticky notes, markers, coloured cards and suitable props. You may also need soft exercise balls, scarves, baskets, a timer, a laptop and audio equipment.
How many chairs do I need for an improvisation workshop?: Provide one chair for every registered participant and keep at least 10% extra if space allows. Arrange the main chairs in a circle, with tables kept to the side until they are needed.
How much stationery should I prepare per participant?: Prepare one name badge, notepad and pen per person, plus 10% extra for late registrations or replacements. Add enough sticky notes and coloured cards for the exercises selected by the facilitator.
When should I check the workshop equipment?: Check the laptop, chargers, speaker, microphone, cables, power strips and timer at least one day before the workshop. Test the sound again during setup, before participants enter the room.

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