What's this about? |
The simple answer is, I get people playing. I facilitate playful activities that develop skills and bring out abilities such as spontaneity, listening, clear communication, and being present in the moment. Many of the activities in my toolkit come from improvisation exercises developed to help actors strengthen these same skills.
When you think about it, we experience the unpredictable every day. Conversations are unscripted. Surprises pop up at work. Plans go awry. Developing an improvisational mindset can help you to be more comfortable with the unpredictable, resilient in the face of challenges, and open to opportunities. Practicing these exercises can help you become a better listener, leader, teammate. It's a great workout for your brain. Plus, it's super fun! |
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My education and training is in theater, communication, social group work and facilitation, and conflict resolution and mediation. I've engaged in many creative projects over the years including acting, directing, and collaborative playwriting, hosting a radio program, and developing materials for and training teens in peer leadership groups. These projects have been enhanced and informed by my experience performing improv comedy beginning in 1988 as co-founder of an improv troupe in Salt Lake City, Utah.
In 2012, thinking about this eclectic background and pondering on what I would most love to bring to the world. I discovered applied improvisation, a practice that utilizes the techniques and principles of theater improvisation with non-actors in a myriad of ways, from business team development to improving interpersonal communication skills and relationships. I am a member of the Applied Improvisation Network, a global network of professionals who are dedicated to creating and sharing best practices as well as conducting scholarly research on this rich, emerging field. |
But you can't make me! |
Have no fear. This is not about being funny. It's not even about being up in front of people (but we can, if you want to). We play together in a low-stakes environment so that you'll be better equipped out in the world where it really does matter. C'mon, let's play!
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