As the end of the year approaches, It’s time to let you know that while the Merlin Works Corporate Training is headed strong into 2026, our Merlin Works Classes and Shows will be stopping with this current session at the end of 2025. We’ve been feeling the same squeeze as many improv theaters and creative business in Austin: loss of affordable spaces and customers tightening their belts. This marks my 30th year of improvising. 30 years of practicing how to stay present and meet each moment as it comes. This year, after the unexpected death of my children’s father in May, those skills are needed most at home. For all these reasons, we are closing the school.

We have accomplished so much in the last 22 years of business:

• Serving thousands of students, employing dozens of teachers, putting on hundreds of performances, and delivering countless laughs
• Holding classes at three home bases over the years: Salvage Vanguard Theater, ZACH Theater, and Creative Action
• Receiving outstanding ratings from our customers: 4.7 stars on Google and 4.8 stars on Yelp–where we are The Top Rated Improv Company
• Publishing our book, Instant Alchemy: The Science and Magic of Narrative Longform
• Paying $221,000 in rent to local arts and education organizations, empowering their success
• Putting $617,000 in the pockets of artists for their contract labor as teachers and staff
• Although we celebrate failure at Merlin Works, this isn’t a failure. It’s an ending. Every current and past Merlin Works team member has contributed to these accomplishments and we should be proud of it. We did a great job with integrity and heart, and can walk away with gratitude.

Remember we are still the top game in town for improv-based Team Building, Communication Skills, and Keynote Speeches, so please check out our Corporate Training website www.merlin.works to see if you can bring us in to your company, organization, or conference.

Thank you,

Shana