I think most groups are looking at two simple elements in their work:
- TECHNIQUE and - INSPIRATION
If you have the first element, you are getting the story or performing the game. If you have the second element, you are feeling good and fun to watch. If you fail to mix the two equally, it’s like eating the same repetitive meal without change or like eating only junk food. Too much makes your audience sick. A good meal has variation, spice and substance. It keeps your audience healthy and they will return for more.
- - Do you have an improvisation group? Are you looking to start one or make yours better? Are you just looking to update your skills or rejuvenate that joy and inspiration in Impro?
Shawn has been working with groups all over the world and brings many resources for you to draw on.
- hERE’S A hIdden LINE. did YOU find it? wHAT elsE hIDEs HERE?
Through his work at Loose Moose, Shawn comes with a rich understanding and skill set to help you develop your stories. With a background in physical theatre, Shawn brings a unique perspective to help you perform as more than a talking head.
As he travels he absorbs ideas and concepts (like a squishy sponge) from all over the planet and brings them to you. -
I haven’t seen it all yet but I’ve seen a lot. There are similar problems everywhere (a lot based around risk taking) and there are problems that are common to regions. I understand that there are different styles and it’s a big mistake for teachers to claim that their style IS THE ONLY IMPROVISATION THERE IS.
I TRY to respect your style and help you develop further.
Where many teachers come from a background that student START ignorant and need to be filled with the knowledge of the teacher, I believe that the student is INNOCENT and already has great skills that need to be nurtured. (don’t get me wrong – many students have learned BAD behaviour that needs weeding).
Many groups ask me to teach a specific topic. That’s OK, but what if the lesson you ask for is unattainable because you are missing other skills. This happens a lot. While I will gladly work towards a goal that you set, I would encourage you to set workshops up with an open mind. My favourite workshops have occurred because the students and I have been inspired by real and immediate needs.
Teaching is like improvisation. See your partner. See the offers. See the many possibilities and jump forward with the most beneficial one.
Improvisation Workshops cover many areas:
- - Narrative
- - Basics
- - Character
- - Sex and Violence
- - Scenography
- - Physical work – Mime – Mask – Contact improvisation – Band Mime / Cartoon Mime
- - Breaking the rules to better improv
- - Inspiration and the Spirit of Impro
- - The workshops that hasn’t been ‘worked”… “shopped”…
For more specific information on Shawn’s work with improvisation, please CONTACT him or visit http://www.improworldtour.com/. There you will find up to date writing, feedback, and resources.
