No classes are currently scheduled.
Most recent class taught: May 2023 Duke’s OLLI Program – Improv Sampler
Class Samples
Improv Scenework Magic – It’s a class that encourages enrollment from 50+ improvisers and younger (no age discrimination toward those under 50!)
Would you like to create scenes that tickle your funny bone? Make them heartfelt? Memorable? Learn the key ingredients along with a bit of artistic magic. This class provides you with the tools to develop your own special kind of magic. You will learn how to stay in the present moment, listen fully and connect with your scene partner in a creative process where you build a scene together. This class is custom-tailored to boost the skill level of the enrolled students.
Class is open to students who have taken a basic improv class (here or elsewhere) or have a theater background. This class encourages both 50+ improvisers and younger to join in the fun of scenework creation.
Improv Theater Scenework
For those who have had a basic improv class (with me or somewhere) or have a theater background. You will have plenty of opportunities to exercise and grow your improv muscles. Every scenework class is different, so don’t hesitate to re-enroll. Class is geared to the skill level of current students. You can expect to have fun, be challenged, and grow in skills. Small class size for more personal instruction and class stage time.
50+ Improvisers – FUNdamentals. A basics/intro improv class through Duke’s OLLI program held at the JRC, Durham. Registration is held on one day only. In the future, you might enjoy taking a class through OLLI.
Improv Theater FUNdamentals Sampler. Durham Arts Council.
Here’s your chance to test the water without jumping into the big improv pool. In this two-session sampler, you’ll learn the ‘Yes… and’ frame of mind and play with exercises that show you firsthand what improv can offer you. Our main goal will be to have fun, enjoying what it means to improvise together. Class involves active physical participation, including frequently alternating between standing and sitting, plus physical movement.
50+ Improvisers: We Make Scenes . Life experiences count! If you’re lucky enough to have hit the 50+ year mark, you got ‘em. Make funny scenes with other folks who’ve ‘been there.’ All you need is a previous hello with a basic improv class or a theater background. Instruction included in this class series that celebrates the creative spirit with humor. You’ll be amazed at the moments you can capture in class. Better than a Polaroid camera.
Improv Theater: Discover your Creativity – FUNdamentals
For those who want to take a foundation improv class or revisit it. Improv FUNdamentals or its non-identical twin, Improv Basics, each lay the groundwork for long-form improv with a different emphasis. They can be taken in any order and students often choose to repeat them for more solid skill-building. Feel free to email me with questions.
FUNdamentals description:
This is your chance to learn and play with the basics of long-form improv. Key exercises will help get you into a ‘Yes…and’ frame of mind. Learn how to draw creatively from your own life experiences. Let humor emerge naturally without jokes. Create scenes from a truthful place using group mind. All this will happen using a playful improv mindset and a little bit of homework! The ultimate goal of this class is to have fun while learning. As an added plus, you will be encouraged to see local, live improv shows. Class involves active physical participation including frequently alternating between standing and sitting, plus physical movement.
Organic Improv Workshop
Organic improv puts you on the fast track to experiencing group mind and the joy of being part of an ensemble. Your mind, emotions, and body get in sync with other players to create new games, scenes, and discoveries. You ‘get out of your head’ and experience the flow of creating improv as part of an entire ensemble. In this workshop, we will use organic improv exercises where scenes emerge from group mind. Be prepared to be physically active. Wear clothing comfortable for movement and closed-toe shoes. Students should have taken at least an introductory improv class.
Improv & Emotions: Playing from your Emotional Place.
Emotional connection, emotional glue — It’s that special ingredient that brings your scenes to life, no matter what your preferred improv style. Following emotion gets you ‘out of your head.’ Your audience will find it easier to connect and care when they experience your character’s emotional self. In this workshop we’ll explore and practice ways to strengthen your scenes with a focus on emotional infusion, reactivity, and expanding your “emotional ladder.” Don’t be surprised if your own brand of funny emerges.
IMPROV THEATER: Discover Your Creativity – BASICS
Want to have fun with others while expanding your creativity and sense of joy? Improv is the popular theater art form where you ‘play’ with others and create spontaneous scenes. In this class, you will learn improv fundamentals using specially tailored games and exercises. Experience the accepting environment of ‘Yes…and.’ Be prepared for self-discovery. Live more in the current moment. Listen and respond more spontaneously. Boost your social confidence. All these while building scenes in the here and now. This class is for people new to improv, but anyone who has already taken an improv course is welcome (and encouraged) to revisit the basics, work those improv muscles and have some fun. Basics and FUNdamentals can be taken in any order. Taking both supports a more solid understanding of improv.