This year, our very own daycare and car wreck attorney Ashley Washington started taking improv classes, and she’s seen positive momentum in all areas of her life..jpeg)
If you’ve ever seen an episode of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” then you’re familiar with improvisational theater. It’s a type of live theatrical performance where some, if not all, of the content, is made up on the spot. Improv is hilarious to watch, but that’s not its only perk.
Improv Skills Apply to the Courtroom
According to Button Law Firm personal injury lawyer Ashley Washington, it’s also the secret weapon of many top attorneys.
“I started taking improv classes because I heard that some famous and well-known trial lawyers had all gone through them,” she says. “Improv helps you learn how to think on your feet, listen, and react, while also being aware of your body language and your audience. The skills I’ve gained can be applied to what we do every day at The Button Law Firm, including everything from depositions to trial work. A lot of what we do requires thinking on the spot and being prepared to speak and present new ideas without a lot of prep time.”
Ashley started looking for an improv class in 2020. She was on the verge of enrolling in a course at Comedy Sportz (CSz) Houston when the pandemic lockdowns closed the show. It was disappointing, but she didn’t give up.
Dallas Personal Injury Attorney Takes Improv Classes at CSz Houston
This March, CSz Houston reopened, and Ashley got into an in-person Level 1 Intro to Improv class. She loves her instructor, Benji, and said the whole experience has been safe and fun.
“I really feel like this is something for everybody. I’m the only lawyer in my group of eight. There are people from all walks of life, with different careers, reasons, and motivations for joining the class,” she says.
Ashley’s class lasted eight weeks and will wrap up with a showcase this month. When it’s over, she’ll enroll in Level 2 to continue learning more about herself and sharpening her litigation skills for the courtroom.
“At the end of the day, improv is all about vulnerability — being able to put yourself out there and not worry about what people are going to think. It’s the one thing in my life I can’t prepare for, which has been a relief!” she says.
We’re proud of Ashley for going after her passion for improv and can’t wait to see her on stage.
