So you've got an idea for an improv show but not sure where to start? Dramaturgy is what will take your show from concept all the way through to the performance and maximize the impact on your audience. In improv, dramaturgy tells us how to research for a genre-based show, how to think critically about which tools to keep in our narrative toolbox, and why we do live theater in the first place. No matter what the production, a dramaturgical approach inspires acting, directing and design choices. In this workshop, Lindsey will introduce you to the concept of dramaturgy, and to the invaluable guidance it provides improvisors. No matter what your position in an improv show — actor, director or tech — knowing where you’ve come from directs where you are going.

“The idea of the ghostlight on the stage in a dark theater is very, very magic. You see that little glow on stage, you can see the edge of the proscenium, like ‘Wow, we’re in this place where anything can happen, who knows what ghosts are lurking around and what wonderful shows have been here before.’” — Michael Mark Chemers

About the Facilitator

Lindsey McGowen is an award-winning technical designer and production manager, originally from Chicago by way of Detroit and Austin. She is formerly the Director of Production Design and Master Electrician at the Hideout Theatre in Austin, where she designed, performed or directed over 30 shows, and is now Co-Founder and Director of Operations for Wayward Improv Theatre in Ottawa, Canada. She teaches dramaturgy for improvisors and technical improvisation to rave reviews from students around the world, including Hideout Theater - Austin, USA | The Improv Company – Singapore | Theater Momentum – Chicago, USA | Open Heart Theatre – Newcastle, UK | The Nursery Theater – London, UK | ImproAmsterdam - Amsterdam, NL​.