Classes

Classes

img_2486

Students at Morpho Theater learn to let go of inhibitions, give free rein to their creativity, and gain confidence.

Level 1. Creating Characters to Drive Improvised Scenes

How do we create characters? Students learn to make choices that lead to creating a strong character, helping them discover a roadmap through the scene. They learn to develop a point of view and emotional life for the character, which feeds the relationship between scene partners.

  • Launch into a character at the top of a scene

     

  • Explore physicality and movement that informs and affects the character’s behavior

  • Mine experiences from real life to create characters

Level 2. Building Dynamic Scenes

How do we create a dynamic scene? Students learn to build the world of the scene by sharpening listening skills, pattern recognition and memory.

  • Learn to remember what scene partners have said and add details to bring the scene to life

  • Create the environment of a scene through description and pantomime

  • Discover patterns in the scene and build on and heighten them

Level 3. Collaborative Creation of an Improvised Show

How do we create an improvised show? Students learn to connect their scenes together, revisiting characters and situations to build a narrative.

  • Learn to use callbacks

  • Link scenes thematically

  • Explore different improv forms used in performance

Testimonials

“Mike is a great instructor and leader. Well prepared and very knowledgeable in the art. ”

—   David K., Sacramento

 

“Michael Davenport does a good job of teaching improv to newcomers like myself and also getting the group to work well with each other. I felt supported and encouraged by Michael. ”

—   Vikki J., Sacramento

 

“Michael works well with experienced improvisers, challenging us to deepen our emotional connections with scene partners and create variety by combining serious acting with absurdity.”

—   Jessica D., Oakland