4 improv things I hated, and how I found my way through

One of the best things about improv is that it’s full of variety. There’s something in it for lots of different kinds of people, whether it’s a skill they’ll excel at, a particular type of game that they find fun and rewarding, a way of connecting with people, or something else. Because of that variety, … Read more

Performative wokeness

The world is currently reeling because a police officer, Derek Chauvin, killed a black man,  George Floyd, while fellow officers passively watched and civilians filming begged him to stop. Of course, we’re horrified. It’s even more horrifying to think that Chauvin had at least 10 official complaints about police brutality and had been involved in … Read more

The Grindr Chronicles part 3: It’s supposed to be fun! Who is diversity for?

  Something I love about Grindr is the huge variety of people I get to meet. I’ve met people from all over the world, from different social classes, of different ages… I’ve met builders, gym bunnies, students, IT people, people with very little English, waiters, businessmen, and all sorts more. Grindr is diverse in a … Read more

The Talk: when and how to have difficult conversations with your group, class, or community

The talk: when and how to have difficult conversations with your group, class, or community. 5 quick takeaways: Listen with an open mind Check your ego at the door Establish rules and systems for behaviour Say what needs to be said; it’s worth taking the time If somebody is being talked over, shift focus back … Read more

Privilege in improv

Privilege and diversity in improv- it’s not just about money Fast ideas to make sure everybody feels good: Ask how people are doing, even if it’s just for a few seconds per student. Make sure everybody who wants a go gets one. If your lesson plan includes pile-in type games*, balance them out with inclusive … Read more