What is ActUp™?
ActUp™ is a program that elevates mindful self awareness and stimulates new brain activity through the creative art of improv.
In a safe, energetic environment that respectfully fosters individuality without judgment or attachment to outcome, participants are encouraged to connect to their own instincts, and abandon any counterproductive desire for perfection, often resulting in anxiety. Alternatively, we cultivate our ability to quiet the mind and embrace the impactful importance of Acceptance, Connection and Trust, by fully engaging in the present moment.
The Benefits of Improvisation
The in-classroom interactive workshops will be an improvisational-based instructional workshop which meets the Ontario Dramatic Arts curriculum requirements. Through improv, a fun and safe environment is created, encompassing and embracing the willingness and skill level of each individual without judgment. Students improve emotional and mental awareness, listening skills, attention to detail, self-discipline and overall focus, while simultaneously building self confidence, and an empathetic understanding and appreciation for diversity.
The 4 Pillars of ActUp™
Elementary School Workshops
Workshops thoughtfully designed for elementary school classrooms covering the full spectrum from FDK to intermediate.
Half Day or Full-Day options available.
(Assessment rubrics are provided with FULL-DAY package)
Private Workshops
Carve out some time to unplug, meet new people, try new things, and challenge comfort levels in a fun and safe space that encourages and stimulates new neurological patterns that breed healthy thoughts and habits.
Workshop Options & Content
(Workshops structured within a standard 4.5 hour day, for junior and intermediate grades only) Regarding student ratio: It is preferred that workshop groups not exceed 30 students per group to optimize the benefits of the interactive exercises taught to participants. This offers everyone a fair chance to thoroughly comprehend, through exploration; singularly, and in partnered and small group situations.
“It has been my experience as not only a veteran actor, but particularly as a teacher of young thespians, that being inspired and encouraged to take emotional risks and follow your gut instinct, actually promotes high levels of enjoyment and success. It allows you to discover so many facets of the human condition, within yourself and in others. Depth of character when learning to build self-trust, and self-confidence is inevitable, when people are supported to approach situations with emotional honesty and integrity. It teaches you to navigate through the world with not only a keen eye, but a compassionate heart, mind and soul. Your view of the world and yourself in it becomes clearer and brighter.”
– Ramona Milano
Vulnerable sector check updated with Halton Regional police service on November 22nd, 2019.