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We would like to invite you to our event for May! This will be a brilliant Improv Skill-Share with Matt Sparkes from 7-9pm in the front room at St Margaret's Institute (https://www.smi-oxford.org.uk) on Monday 20th May.Relational Improvisation: Authentic Connection in Performance
This Relational Improv workshop is for you if you're interested in developing your emotional intuition to create deeper, more meaningful relationships on and off stage.
Improv Fusion
It blends improv with Viewpoints and Meisner Technique to go deeper into improvised relationships for performance. Viewpoints and Meisner Technique are influential training methods from the world of acting that focus on perspective and emotional authenticity. Improv is spontaneous, unscripted theatre.
All levels welcome
The Relational approach to improvisation introduces a unique methodology. Instead of relying on quick wit, we emphasise playing from the heart, with authenticity. This makes it pretty much an even playing field whether you have more improv/acting experience or less, or even none. No need to be clever or funny, emotional vulnerability is the challenge.
The Training
You will engage in exercises designed to heighten awareness of your physical presence, emotional dynamics, and emotional connection with others. This foundation paves the way for an exploration into improvising authentic characters in scenes.
For the Actor
You develop deep listening skills, tuning into not just words but also the subtext and emotions underlying dialogue. Relational Improv also sharpens your ability to be fully present with scene partners, fostering spontaneity, emotional connection, and truthful responses. You can broaden your expressive range, resulting in more nuanced, relatable, and impactful performances.
Personal Development
By exploring aspects of the human condition through different characters, you engage in a form of self-discovery and freedom of expression. This process can lead to personal growth, increased empathy, and a deeper understanding of yourself and others. The challenge of authentically embodying a character can be profoundly satisfying, offering insights into your own emotions, responses, and vulnerabilities.
Comfort and Boundaries
This method encourages you to lean into emotional exposure, navigating scenes that juxtapose conflict and connection, discord and harmony. You'll receive structured guidance, along with individualized feedback and support. While expanding your comfort zone is encouraged, setting and respecting your personal boundaries is equally prioritized for an optimal learning experience.
What you'll Gain:
• Building confidence and reducing performance anxiety
• Focus on spontaneity and adaptability
• Fluid improvisation skills with free and authentic expression
• Enhanced awareness of non-verbal behaviour and subtext
• Emotional connection and vulnerability practice
• Playing from the heart and being in the moment
• Discovery of story, not invention
• Relationship communication and personal growth
• Professional acting development and continuous learning
𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿
Matt Sparkes has a strong foundation in three contemporary acting techniques; Improvisation, Viewpoints, and Meisner Technique. His approach to teaching these disciplines is deeply rooted in the principles of spontaneity, physical and emotional awareness, and authentic emotional connection. His innovative blend of these acting techniques serves as an ideal starting point for beginners and provides profound insights for more experienced individuals. It is crafted to benefit not only actors but also anyone interested in personal growth. Matt's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (2015). His training in the performing arts is extensive and varied, having studied Viewpoints under David Razowsky and Ned Bennett, Meisner Technique with Actors East and Kate Maravan, among others, and improvisation at the Nursery Theatre, Hoopla, Free Association, with Will Luera and numerous additional instructors. Matt has also trained in Laban Movement with Mike Alfreds. Also, he just completed a teaching accreditation course for The Gonsalves Method, with the amazing Director, Aileen Gonsalves. He has regularly showcased his talent at London's premier improv theatre, bringing his expertise and passion for the performing arts to the stage. Matt is enthusiastic about sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience through workshops, aiming to inspire others in the realms of acting, improvisation, and self-improvement.
Testimonials
'An experienced and committed practitioner, in his element' - Sam
'Hugely enjoyable! Matt is amazing at running the sessions!' - Gemma
'The workshop offered a supportive atmosphere for emotional exploration in improv, with well-paced activities that didn't feel exhausting, standing out from typical comedy-focused sessions.' - Matt
FREE to full OTM members
£5 to non-members by transfer to Oxfordshire Theatre Makers
To book your place RSVP at: https://www.oxfordshiretheatremakers.com/events/improv-skill-share
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
St Margarets Institute, 30 Polstead Road,Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
