Code of Conduct
TBC Improv prides itself on providing a safe space for students, teachers and performers to do their best work. As such, any conduct that leads to unsafe conditions will not be tolerated; this includes (but is not limited to): inappropriate/unwanted physical contact; verbal/physical abuse and bullying; use of derogatory language or representations based on gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race, ethnicity, religion (or lack thereof); unwelcome sexual attention.
When in attendance at a TBC Improv event, we ask that all individuals abide by the Code of Conduct as outlined on this page. By following these rules we can ensure an experience that is safe, fun and inclusive for all involved and in attendance.
This Code of Conduct is a living document and will be periodically updated.
Inappropriate Behaviour Examples
A non-exhaustive list of examples of inappropriate behaviour.
Inappropriate Physical Contact You might be a hugger but not everyone is. Ask for permission before touching someone in a scene or class. Permission must be given and can be recinded at anytime: if someone asks you to stop, you stop. When in doubt about whether touching is okay, avoid doing it.
Inappropriate Language This includes referring to individuals by deemeaning or dismissive phrases (such as "girl", "sweetie" rather than a person's name). Language which is racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist.
Dismissive/Disrespectful Behaviour Interrupting or talking over others in class/performances to allow our ideas to be the main focus. Making assumptions about gender, sexuality, race, or religion of colleagues. Shaming, public out burts, threats of violence towards fellow performers, teachers, students and audience has no place in TBC Improv.
Code of Conduct: Performers
All performers have a right to be safe and respected by their fellow performers, venue staff, and audiences when performing in a TBC Improv show.
The use of someone else’s identity as a joke or something to negatively comment on (this includes, but is not limited to race; gender; gender expression; sexuality; religion; socio-economic background; age and disability) will not be tolerated at TBC Improv shows.
There a variety of topics that can be triggering and it is not alwas possible to know in advance. TBC Improv performers are encouraged to avoid topics and subjects that are likely to be offensive or triggering for the audience and fellow performers.
While performing in a TBC Improv show, if at anytime a performer is the target of harrasment or placed into a situation by the show host or their fellow performers that makes them unsafe, they have the full right to halt the scene and/or performance.
Code of Conduct: Teachers
All individuals teaching TBC Improv classes will be respectful of their students and will not be prejudice to any of them based upon ther identity (this includes, but is not limited to race; gender; gender expression; sexuality; religion; socio-economic background; age and disability). Offensive language and uses stereotypes by the teacher will not be tolerated.
The teacher will ensure never knowingly put students in unsafe or inappropriate situations.
Any behaviour which is an abuse of power (for example, bullying, unwanted sexual advancements) by a teacher towards student(s) either inside the classroom or outwith will not be tolerated.
If any teacher engages in any inappropriate conduct as outlined on this page, action will be taken by TBC Improv (including warning and/or removal from the teaching position).
Code of Conduct: Students
The teacher and fellow students in your class have a right to be respected and to work/learn in a safe, supportive environment.
The use of someone else’s identity as a joke or something to negatively comment on (this includes, but is not limited to race; gender; gender expression; sexuality; religion; socio-economic background; age and disability) will not be tolerated at TBC Improv shows. Topics and subject matter likely to cause offense should also be avoided.
All students have a right to stop a scene or exercise at any time if they are subject to inappropriate behaviour or placed into an unsafe situation.
Inappropriate touching by either the students or teacher will not be tolerated. Any touching must be with express permission.
If while taking any of our classes you are the recipient of any harassment – including as outlined on this page – inform the class teacher immediately.
If any student engages in any inappropriate conduct as outlined on this page, action will be taken by the event organiser (including warning or expulsion from the event).
Code of Conduct: Audiences
Audience participation is a joyous part of an improv show: whether it is calling out suggestions for scenes or joining performers on stage. This participation does not permit audience members to engage in any harrasing or unsafe behaviour. Performers and host(s) have a right to stop a scene or game at any time as a result of audience inappropriate conduct.
Performers and host(s) have a right to refuse or modify an audience member's suggestion if it is innapropriate or offensive.
If any audience member engages in any inappropriate conduct – including as outlined on this page – action will be taken by the event organiser (including warning or expulsion from the event).