About this Event
Embodied Improv: Finding Freedom in Long-form Scenes
In this four week class, participants will experience Viewpoints through the lens of Viola Spolin’s approach to improv. By combining the movement-first framework of Viewpoints with the playful, game-centered approach of Viola Spolin, participants will discover new ways to create long-form scenes that are more physically expressive, visually dynamic, and deeply collaborative—without relying solely on dialogue or punchlines. Scroll down for details including Frequently Asked Questions.
Participants Will Gain
- Increased body awareness and movement vocabulary
- A deeper understanding of how structure can allow improvisers to play more freely
- Heightened listening and responsiveness to self and others
- Tools for more variety and depth in your characters
- Confidence to follow your instincts in scenes
About the Teacher
Renee Miller is an improviser with an acting background who has studied improv at the American Conservatory Theater, BATS (formerly Bay Area Theatersports) in San Francisco, and the Peoples Improv Theater in New York City. Also in New York City, she attended New Actor’s Workshop, a two-year professional actor training program founded by three master teachers—Mike Nichols, George Morrison, and Paul Sills—where she learned Viola Spolin’s approach to improv. Renee was first introduced to Viewpoints by Anne Bogart and the SITI Company at the Actor’s Theater of Louisville. Renee performs regularly in the Leatherwood Hill duo, with the house team Luxury Gas at Lancaster Improv Players, and with the indie team The Five.
About Open City Improv
The Open City Improv Playhouse is a new theater lab that believes improvisation offers rich tools for both scripted and unscripted works. With a focus on the physical nature of performance amongst the players, Open City believes that the most exciting moments are found in the space between us. Website with more information is launching in June 2026 at OpenCityImprov.com.
About the Methods
Viewpoints is a technique for creating movement and composition onstage. Viewpoints include Tempo, Duration, Kinesthetic Response, Repetition, Shape, Gesture, Architecture, Spatial Relationship, and Topography.
Violin Spolin’s approach emphasizes group response—where players see themselves as an organic part of the whole—along with the need for players to get out of the head and into “the space” where they can experience the fullest spontaneity.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
St. John's Episcopal Church of Lancaster, The Upper Level, Lancaster, United States
USD 108.55
