Presence, Performativity and Peer Collaboration through Play (Improv Workshop)

PRESENCE, PERFORMATIVITY AND PEER COLLABORATION THROUGH PLAY (IMPROV WORKSHOPS)

We will explore the benefits of saying “Yes, and!” and apply them not only to the workplace or presentations- but being better, more adaptable humans. We will talk about what it means to be present, listen and accept a scene (the yes), and contribute from your unique perspective (the and!) Improv, contrary to popular belief, is not just for class clowns. In fact, the ‘truth in comedy’ concept is something all great improvisers keep in mind. So, no worries if you’re not the office clown. This is more than just an exercise for making you ‘good at presentations.’ If you have a job where your daily routine consists of fairly introverted tasks, there are still many concepts within these exercises that will benefit you. Think about all the processes and structures you follow daily, in order to improve a process, you need to have a thorough understanding of the existing one. We will be looking at a few basic ways to establish and build upon process or structures within improv.
 

Learning Objectives: 

  • Learning the concept of “Yes, And”, the golden rule of improv- and a fundamental for success in teamwork.
  • The creative nature of the activities will encourage idea generating/sharing.
  • We will be able to work on our confidence and ability to communicate in front of an audience during any kind of presentation.

Key Themes: 

  • Leadership 
  • Teambuilding/ Working in teams
  • Communication

Session(s)

April 8, 2019
1:00 - 2:00 pm 
STC 0040

April 9, 2019
10:30 - 11:30 am 
STC 0040


Presenter(s)

Rebecca J. Zehr -Experienced improviser and teacher -Has worked with students of all ages (approx. 4-60 years old) -Founder/director/producer of local improv group "Laughs On Tap" -BA in Theatre Studies from York University

Accessibility

The University of Waterloo is committed to providing barrier-free access and equal opportunities to all individuals with disabilities. We strive to create an inclusive environment that is welcoming and supportive of everyone, regardless of their abilities. OHD encourages a scent-free environment in our in-person learning and development events.

If you require any additional accommodations or have any questions about accessibility, please connect with our OHD Events and Programs Coordinator, Krystal Mittler at krystal.mittler@uwaterloo.ca. We are committed to ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in our learning and development event. Please note that certain accommodations may require time to arrange.


The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within our Office of Indigenous Relations