Improvisation and Acting for Life *In-Person*

Improvisation and acting are commonly associated with comedy and performance. Still, they're also great training for talking and listening, being in touch with feelings and situations, and picking up on social cues, to name a few obvious applications in everyday life. This class will develop a selection of classic exercises from the two traditions (acting and improvisation) in a playful spirit based on brief class conversations and reflections. The course is meant to be fun and thought-provoking and help contribute to an active sense of humor, empathy, and confidence. It's intended for non-actors and actors interested in practicing spontaneity, ensemble, or craft without a script. No experience is necessary; all are welcome. Instructor: Mark Hessler

Sections

Instructor

Mark Hessler has an S.B. in literature and physics, an Ed.M. in teaching and curriculum, and studied theater at the New Theatre and National Shakespeare conservatories and at CCAE. He has held a variety of jobs and roles in teaching, technology, and theatre. He participated in several long-running improvisation groups (Abneria, The Young Tongues) and has served as a judge in the METG/Boston Globe Massachusetts high school drama festival for many years. He is passionate about the value of theatre education for people from all walks of life.