2017 Workshops
The Improv of Crafting
Jill Connolly
There's something powerful in creating an item from raw materials. Even as a kid you can feel it: sitting down surrounded by Popsicle sticks, glue, markers and paper, ready to make a gift for a parent. Many people today have continued to fashion something personal to share with others. In this workshop, Jill Connolly approaches crafting through the lens of self-care (treat yo self!).
Become a Super Hero
Will Wiggins
Everyone has something about them that makes them special. That makes them... heroic. That makes them a super hero. In this workshop, we'll delve into things that make ourselves, or someone else we know, totally iconic or heroic, and make that into a super power. Then, we'll transition that into how to apply a character design around that. Designs can vary in complexity, from simple cartoon to realistic comic character.
Sing A New Song: Collaborative Songwriting
Paul Riley
Going from singing a song in the shower or playing air guitar is not as much of a jump as you might think. It’s certainly easier if you’ve played an instrument or written anything (especially poetry), but in this workshop we’ll prove that anyone can write a song. We’ll explore a few different genres, three approaches to writing, then collaborate to create a song of our own.
Narrative Portraiture
Ethan Grosso
Portraiture is a way of depicting an individual, often describing their physical appearance but potentially also a means of visualizing their story. In this relaxed, after-dinner workshop people will pair up and take turns playing the part of artist and subject. While the artist is drawing the subject of the piece will tell them a story, which the artist can incorporate into their piece. Portraits can be as literal or abstract as desired, and the tone of subject matter of the stories are up to the sitters. Technical ability is not a requirement or focus of the workshop, although advice and assistance are available to those interested. A variety of drawing materials will be provided, but people are encouraged to bring any favorite materials they want to work with.
Oh, Ya’ll Got Jokes, Huh? An Intro to Stand-up Comedy
James Riley
What’s the deal with Stand-Up comedy? In this brief introduction to comedy we will be talking about different styles of humor in the history of stand-up. We will also discuss the ways in which comedians write jokes and workshop jokes of our own. With an eye looking toward performance, each participant will write out their own tight five (or less) and perform it at the night’s showcase.
The Craft of Improv
Dave Dutilley
Improv has a lot to teach us about life: each of us, working together, can add something to a scene that brings joy to the faces of others. In this workshop, Dave will teach you some basic improv games then let you and your team dive into the fun! Each team (at least three people) will have time to perform an improv routine in front of the other, trading back and forth as you hone your skills. You’ll be able to perform again for everyone later in the evening if you want. We encourage everyone to consider this - not just the actors and extroverts!
Making Shit Up: A VERY Brief Writer’s Workshop
James Riley
Everyone has a story. Everyone can put pen to paper and come out with a worthwhile narrative that other people will read eagerly. But sometimes the process takes time and it always takes effort. In this mini writer’s workshop we will write short pieces of fiction. We will also work on giving constructive and honest feedback on the stories produced. Special attention will be given to relevant ideas in fiction such as plot and character.
How To Not Hate Fighting Games
Will Wiggins
It comes as no surprise that some people really can't stand fighting games. And I don't blame them - often times when we play early on with people who don't explain how to play. Let's talk about those experiences, both good, and bad, and let's learn how to play together, using Street Fighter V or Super Smash Bros as our vessel.
