Fun Improv Workshop for Non-Actors!

19 01 2010

Next week, I’ll be doing one of my favorite things:  teaching a fun improv class to folks who don’t have (or maybe never even thought they wanted) improv or acting experience.

Does speaking in front of a large group make you nervous? Do you want to improve your communication skills at parties/gatherings or think faster on your feet to increase productivity at work?

Well, here’s a low-key way to get your feet wet with some very accessible theatre. Improvisation is more than just a great tool for actors, it’s a different way of approaching life.  Through fun games and exercises, students will gain more confidence, more creativity, and more playfulness in their lives through the basic improv skills of listening, reacting, working with others, and trusting oneself.  Not only will it make you more comfortable while thinking on your feet, it’s a delightful way to spend an evening.  No previous theatre experience required!

Led by seasoned Chicago performer, writer, and director, Amanda Rountree (uh, yeah…that’s me), this three-hour workshop is perfect for anyone who is looking to broaden their horizons without having to make a commitment to a full improv program.

Tuition is $40 per student, and registration can be completed at the Brown Paper Tickets page. Space is limited!  Please contact youngestchildproductions@gmail.com.

Wednesday, January 27  7-10pm at the Cornelia Arts Center

One week away from the workshop and we still have some spots left.  Please pass along the info to anyone you think might be interested.  Thanks!





The (Edward) Hopper Project

6 01 2010

Last night was the first rehearsal in the actual space for WNEP‘s show that opens next week.  Because the show is based on the paintings of Edward Hopper (and perhaps also because I am such a visual person), I’ve been crossing my fingers for a very visually stimulating set.  After last night’s rehearsal, I am relieved, ’cause I think we’re gonna get it!  The show runs January 15 – February 21 at DCA’s Storefront Theater in downtown Chicago.  Please click here for specific information.

I am very excited to be a part of this show.  So many amazingly talented people have made/are making this show possible.  Inspired by Edward Hopper, conceived by Jen Ellison; written by Mary Jo Bolduc, Jen Ellison, Bob Fisher, Tom Flanigan, Don Hall, Merrie Greenfield, Joe Janes, Cholley Kuhaneck, and Rebecca Langguth; directed by Don Hall; performed by Scott T. Barsotti, Mary Jo Bolduc, Regan Davis, Lauren Fisher, Dennis Frymire, Kevin Gladish, Lori Goss, Merrie Greenfield, Marsha Harman, Joe Janes, Andrew Jordan, Patrick Kelly, Ian Knox, Vinnie Lacey, Erin Orr, Amanda Rountree, and Jacob A. Ware; and a hard-working crew including Rebecca Langguth, Dianna Driscoll, Stephanie Hoerner, Jim Moore, Joe Griffin, Heath Hays, and Mike Durst.





not sure what to title this one yet

4 01 2010

When I click on “new post” this site immediately puts a blinking cursor into the space where I should put the title of my new post.  That seems a little pushy to me.  At least today it does.  Maybe it’s because it’s the beginning of a new year.  I’m not really sure where this post is going to end up.  And I don’t know how this year will end up either.  So why can’t I just wait to title my year in say December or next January?

Since we’re on the subject, must I title my year?  I suppose titles make it easier for archival purposes.  Some years slip into ambiguity, while others remain clearly marked for their unique qualities:  The Year I Moved to Seattle, The Break-Up/Japan Year, The Year I Toured Europe for Six Weeks, The Year I Moved to Chicago, The Year of (The Good the Bad and) the Monkey, and so on…  These serve as markers for the cartography of my life.  I can’t always find the arrow that denotes clearly “you are here.”  But at least I can see where I’ve been.

Sometimes, I can even see where I’m going.  The paint on the signpost that read, “The Year I Moved to Chicago” had already dried by the time I got out here.  And the “Gonna Create My One-Woman Show” signs led to successful ventures.  So, perhaps I can start making some signs for 2010 and see which ones I use:  The Year I Toured With Monkeys, The Year I Fell in Love (the Right Way), The Year I Began Doing Yoga on a Daily Basis, etc…

Maybe a good goal in life is to have all of one’s years inspire easy titles because of their momentous events.  But maybe that’s putting too much pressure on myself.  I’m fairly skilled at that.  Which is why I don’t need some blinking cursor doing it for me.

I’m not sure what to title this one yet.  And that’s just fine.








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