Put Me In, Coach
Of all the workshops I've taught in the past, I think the ones that resemble coaching are my favourite. Meeting people where they are, seeing what they're working on and what they're trying to do, and helping them get over the humps or around the blocks that are getting in their way. It's improvising but from outside the scene - noticing where things are getting derailed, what's helping and what's not, nudging mindsets towards a more open and relaxed space and hoping that what I have to offer is useful.
Most recently I've been working with Instant Theatre in advance of their show next week (get along and see it if you are free Thurs - Sat!), and it's reawakened my drive to coach. Would you like some coaching? I would love to come work with you and your group on whatever you're working on. Or, if you're interested in a Scenework Intensive one-off or series, let me know - that's basically coaching but lots of individuals at once instead of a group.
snippets
- I'm heading to BATS this afternoon to pitch some shows, which will hopefully mean the return of Late Night Knife Fight in a more consistent fashion and maybe some more opportunities for other shows...
- The BATS AGM is happening on Monday 15 June - RSVP and come along "to hear about BATS' achievements over the past year, learn more about our plans for 2027, and ask any questions you may have about the organisation and its future."
- NZ Fringe dates are out: February 12 - March 6, 2027.
- Jen Dehaan writes a newsletter about neurodiversity in improv. She also does a podcast called Your Improv Brain. She's just published two guides to notes - one for students and one for teachers. I'm gonna get them and read them!
- If you don't get those guides, then read this (free) post from Patti Stiles about notes. Giving them, getting them, interpreting, why you should do them.
coming up…
shows
- Ferris Wheel (WIT). Tonight! Friday 5 June, 7:00pm at Thistle Hall, pay-what-you-can from $5.
"Set on the classic fairground ride this unique show will star a rotating cast (ha!), weaving stories from the lives of characters spun together. " - Instant Theatre (Sarah Ashill, Thomas Bauer, Tony Yuile). 11-13 June, 7pm at BATS Theatre, tix $15-25.
"With no script, no games, and nothing prepared, three performers step on stage and create a living, breathing story from two audience suggestions. Characters emerge, relationships form, and moments of joy, heartbreak, and unexpected twists take shape right before your eyes. - Silly Billies (Bucket Hutt). Thurs 11 June, 7pm at Cavern Club, tix $10-15.
"Silly Billies is the only alternative variety comedy open mic in Wellington and those who know, will tell you that every month is always unexpected and never boring.... From stand-up and sketch to improv, character and musical comedy – you'll never know what you might experience!"
workshops
- Clown Class Tuesdays with Sean Dugdale-Martin. Tuesdays 7:30-9pm til 30 June, $15 a night, you don't have to go to all of them, click the link for more info!
- WIT Tuesdays (Wellington Improv Troupe). Tues 6-8pm, new venue, various teachers. Drop in, koha. Check the most recent newsletter (at the link) for info on this week’s session.
ka kite anō
That’s all for this week; let me know what I missed in the comments, and stay safe and well xx
