Though I felt somewhat bad for leaving Thiagi's excellent session on design, I'm so glad I disobeyed by fear/guilt and listened to my body's request to get more active, play and face my fear of performance-focused improv. I loved Mick's style of just running tons of opportunities to do scenes, his deep listening and bold direct-coaching/feedback for each person, and the games he chose that helped get us out of our head (going insane, talking as fast as possible, etc.) Thanks Mick!
Agree! I had a marvelous start to the conference this year, spending the first day with Susan and then Mick. His simple and generous offer of 'be the actress you are -- choose a character' freed me from the burden of 'trying' to be an improvisor. I was able to fully participate in scenes for the first time, without worrying that I was 'not getting it right'. What joy! I shall endeavor to make my way back to Chicago to work with him at Annoyance in the coming year.
Leif, it was such fun to play with you there and I too am glad you followed your impulse and stepped into the space with us.