Improv in Practice with Synergy Theater Castos https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/ Interviews, inspiration, and information on Improvised "Improv" Theater, with Synergy Theater. Questions answered: Will an Improv class with Synergy Theater help you with public speaking? Help you think on your feet? Make you a better communicator? Boost your self-confidence and creativity? Yes, and... Our welcoming and supportive community and learning environment make us unique. It all begins with The Three Rules of Improv, honed by Synergy Theater Director Kenn Adams: 1) Be spontaneous. 2) Make you partner look good. 3) Build on your partner's idea. Improv in Practice offers interviews with Synergy Theater performers, students, and special guests. We explore improvisation from the point of view of the performer, the teacher, the student, and the audience. If you're wondering how you can try Improv for the first time, or how you can dig deeper into the art of improvisation, Synergy Theater is here for you. In addition to offering classes, Synergy Theater performs full-length improvised plays and strives to create theater with compelling characters, wonderful stories, and vibrant spontaneity. Our mission is to build a better world through improvisational theater. Find out how at synergytheater.com. Thu, 02 Apr 2026 12:55:00 +0000 en © 2021 https://episodes.castos.com/60bf89eb8febe4-47868404/images/synergy-theater-podcast-3000.jpg Improv in Practice with Synergy Theater https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/ Interviews, inspiration, and information on Improvised "Improv" Theater, with Synergy Theater. Questions answered: Will an Improv class with Synergy Theater help you with public speaking? Help you think on your feet? Make you a better communicator? Boost your self-confidence and creativity? Yes, and... Our welcoming and supportive community and learning environment make us unique. It all begins with The Three Rules of Improv, honed by Synergy Theater Director Kenn Adams: 1) Be spontaneous. 2) Make you partner look good. 3) Build on your partner's idea. Improv in Practice offers interviews with Synergy Theater performers, students, and special guests. We explore improvisation from the point of view of the performer, the teacher, the student, and the audience. If you're wondering how you can try Improv for the first time, or how you can dig deeper into the art of improvisation, Synergy Theater is here for you. In addition to offering classes, Synergy Theater performs full-length improvised plays and strives to create theater with compelling characters, wonderful stories, and vibrant spontaneity. Our mission is to build a better world through improvisational theater. Find out how at synergytheater.com. Sarah Wilson episodic Interviews, inspiration, and information on Improvised "Improv" Theater, with Synergy Theater. Questions answered: Will an Improv class with Synergy Theater help you with public speaking? Help you think on your feet? Make you a better communicator? Boost your self-confidence and creativity? Yes, and... Our welcoming and supportive community and learning environment make us unique. It all begins with The Three Rules of Improv, honed by Synergy Theater Director Kenn Adams: 1) Be spontaneous. 2) Make you partner look good. 3) Build on your partner's idea. Improv in Practice offers interviews with Synergy Theater performers, students, and special guests. We explore improvisation from the point of view of the performer, the teacher, the student, and the audience. If you're wondering how you can try Improv for the first time, or how you can dig deeper into the art of improvisation, Synergy Theater is here for you. In addition to offering classes, Synergy Theater performs full-length improvised plays and strives to create theater with compelling characters, wonderful stories, and vibrant spontaneity. Our mission is to build a better world through improvisational theater. Find out how at synergytheater.com. Sarah Wilson podcast@synergytheater.com false https://feeds.castos.com/7kq26 yes <![CDATA[How to Get a CLUE with Griffen and Lilli]]> Thu, 02 Apr 2026 12:55:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/2410083 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/how-to-get-a-clue-with-griffen-and-lilli In this episode, I talk with Griffen, director of Synergy Theater’s Improvised Clue, and cast member Lilli about bringing mystery and comedy to the stage. I also feature separate interviews with my cohost Val and Jeremiah from the Lesher Center—woven together into a tapestry of behind-the-scenes perspectives, including a truly unexpected lost-and-found mystery. Improvised Clue opens April 16th at the Lesher Center. Get your tickets!

Beyond their live performances, Synergy Theater also offers improv classes, workshops, and community events—making it easy for anyone to jump in, get creative, and be part of the experience. Visit SynergryTheater.com now to learn more and see how you can get involved!

]]> full 36 5 false In this episode, I talk with Griffen, director of Synergy Theater’s Improvised Clue, and cast member Lilli about bringing mystery and comedy to the stage. I also feature separate interviews with my cohost Val and Jeremiah from the Lesher Center—woven together into a tapestry of behind-the-scenes perspectives, including a truly unexpected lost-and-found mystery. Improvised Clue opens April 16th at the Lesher Center. Get your tickets!

Beyond their live performances, Synergy Theater also offers improv classes, workshops, and community events—making it easy for anyone to jump in, get creative, and be part of the experience. Visit SynergryTheater.com now to learn more and see how you can get involved!

]]> 00:45:10 <![CDATA[Diablo Improv Festival with Diana Brown]]> Thu, 16 Oct 2025 12:53:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/2166236 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/diablo-improv-festival-with-diana-brown Hello Friends and Improv Festivalgoers! The FIRST ANNUAL Diablo Improv Festival happens October 24-26, 2025, and is only days away as I write this. High on my list of things to look forward to is Diana Brown's workshop The Space Between. In this episode Diana and I talk about Diana's background in Improv, the inspiration for The Space Between, and what Diana sees as a common struggle among her Improv students.

Visit DiabloImprovFestival.org for all related information. Hope to see you there!

DianaLynnBrown.com

The Lesher Center - Diablo Improv Festival

]]> full 35 5 false Hello Friends and Improv Festivalgoers! The FIRST ANNUAL Diablo Improv Festival happens October 24-26, 2025, and is only days away as I write this. High on my list of things to look forward to is Diana Brown's workshop The Space Between. In this episode Diana and I talk about Diana's background in Improv, the inspiration for The Space Between, and what Diana sees as a common struggle among her Improv students.

Visit DiabloImprovFestival.org for all related information. Hope to see you there!

DianaLynnBrown.com

The Lesher Center - Diablo Improv Festival

]]> 00:30:16 <![CDATA[Diablo Improv Festival with Jaime and Randy]]> Tue, 14 Oct 2025 12:53:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/2163754 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/diablo-improv-festival-with-jaime-and-randy Hello Improvisers! It's almost here: The FIRST annual Diablo Improv Festival October 24-26 at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek. Will we see you there? For more info visit DiabloImprovFestival.org.

We have another round of back-to-back interviews for you in this episode: Jaime Rich and Randy Wight of Spontaneous Mind - co-creators, performers, and co-producers at the festival. Jaime will also teach the workshop Young at Heart. Jaime and Rich each express a love of and interest in Improvised Theater that is infectious. Enjoy!

SpontaneousMind.org

DiabloImprovFestival.org

Lesher Center - Diablo Improv Festival

]]> full 34 5 false Hello Improvisers! It's almost here: The FIRST annual Diablo Improv Festival October 24-26 at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek. Will we see you there? For more info visit DiabloImprovFestival.org.

We have another round of back-to-back interviews for you in this episode: Jaime Rich and Randy Wight of Spontaneous Mind - co-creators, performers, and co-producers at the festival. Jaime will also teach the workshop Young at Heart. Jaime and Rich each express a love of and interest in Improvised Theater that is infectious. Enjoy!

SpontaneousMind.org

DiabloImprovFestival.org

Lesher Center - Diablo Improv Festival

]]> 00:39:59 <![CDATA[Diablo Improv Festival with Kat and Della]]> Tue, 07 Oct 2025 13:55:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/2159629 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/diablo-improv-festival-with-kat-and-della It's almost here: The first annual Diablo Improv Festival, October 24-26, 2025, at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek, CA! We have a lot to talk about in the run up to the festival and so we have TWO back-to-back interviews for you. First we talk with Kat Koppett - applied Improv pioneer, author, and consultant. Kat joins us from her home on the east coast but if you're a west-coaster who has ever wished that you could meet Kat in person now is your chance. Kat joins the festival's incredible talent roster and offers a seminar all about her Improv insights and book Training to Imagine. Then we talk with Della Watson - a festival co-producer - and head of DKW Productions. We talk about Della's inspirations and hopes for the festival. Find more about the festival at DiabloImprovFestival.org!

https://www.mopco.org/

https://www.dkwproductions.com/

Lesher Center - Diablo Improv Festival 

]]> full 33 5 false It's almost here: The first annual Diablo Improv Festival, October 24-26, 2025, at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek, CA! We have a lot to talk about in the run up to the festival and so we have TWO back-to-back interviews for you. First we talk with Kat Koppett - applied Improv pioneer, author, and consultant. Kat joins us from her home on the east coast but if you're a west-coaster who has ever wished that you could meet Kat in person now is your chance. Kat joins the festival's incredible talent roster and offers a seminar all about her Improv insights and book Training to Imagine. Then we talk with Della Watson - a festival co-producer - and head of DKW Productions. We talk about Della's inspirations and hopes for the festival. Find more about the festival at DiabloImprovFestival.org!

https://www.mopco.org/

https://www.dkwproductions.com/

Lesher Center - Diablo Improv Festival 

]]> 00:55:25 <![CDATA[Improvising Hitchcock with Professor Denah Johnston]]> Thu, 10 Jul 2025 13:50:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/2081819 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/improvising-hitchcock-with-professor-denah-johnston Hello Improvised Theater and Alfred Hitchcock fans!

In this episode we host Professor Denah Johnston, who teaches The Films of Alfred Hitchcock at San Francisco City College. We also host a virtual Alfred Hitchcock plumbed from the depths of the ethereal world of Artificial Intelligence. If you could ask Alfred Hitchcok anything, would you take his answers as the whole truth? Or would you wonder what ol' Hitch "hallucintated"? We invite you to join us as we explore this notion with (the real) Professor Denah Johsnton and the (ghostly?) Master of Suspense.

Synergy Theater's Improvised Hitchcock opens at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek CA Thursday 7/17/25. Get your tickets now for what will be a sold-out run. See you there!

https://www.synergytheater.com/ 

 

]]> full 32 5 false Hello Improvised Theater and Alfred Hitchcock fans!

In this episode we host Professor Denah Johnston, who teaches The Films of Alfred Hitchcock at San Francisco City College. We also host a virtual Alfred Hitchcock plumbed from the depths of the ethereal world of Artificial Intelligence. If you could ask Alfred Hitchcok anything, would you take his answers as the whole truth? Or would you wonder what ol' Hitch "hallucintated"? We invite you to join us as we explore this notion with (the real) Professor Denah Johsnton and the (ghostly?) Master of Suspense.

Synergy Theater's Improvised Hitchcock opens at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek CA Thursday 7/17/25. Get your tickets now for what will be a sold-out run. See you there!

https://www.synergytheater.com/ 

 

]]> 01:00:00 <![CDATA[Adrián & Addam Face Dungeons & Dragons]]> Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:20:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1993979 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/adrian-addam-face-dungeons-dragons Hello Improvisers!  Synergy Theater's Improvised Dungeons and Dragons begins April 3rd, 2025 and runs through April 13th, Thursday's through Sundays, at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, California. Don't be left out of the epic adventure! Get your tickets now at SynergyTheater.com. In this our 31st episode, Val and I sit down with Adrián Bousada, creator and director of Improvised D & D, and Addam Ledmyen, writer, actor, and Synergy Theater player. We talk about the origin and challenges of Improvised D&D, and Adrián's and Addam's hopes for the the show. You can find more about Adrián and Addam on Synergy Theater's website. Just click on About Us.

]]> full 31 5 false Hello Improvisers!  Synergy Theater's Improvised Dungeons and Dragons begins April 3rd, 2025 and runs through April 13th, Thursday's through Sundays, at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, California. Don't be left out of the epic adventure! Get your tickets now at SynergyTheater.com. In this our 31st episode, Val and I sit down with Adrián Bousada, creator and director of Improvised D & D, and Addam Ledmyen, writer, actor, and Synergy Theater player. We talk about the origin and challenges of Improvised D&D, and Adrián's and Addam's hopes for the the show. You can find more about Adrián and Addam on Synergy Theater's website. Just click on About Us.

]]> 00:40:22 <![CDATA[Elyse Iovino Lays Down the Law]]> Sun, 26 Jan 2025 13:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1951352 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/elyse-iovino-lays-down-the-law Hello Improvisers! In our 30th episode, we talk with Elyse Iovino who joined Synergy Theater in 2023. We talk about Synergy's current show: IMPROVISED LAW AND ORDER, what surprised Elyse about the show, and Elyse's passion for helping people as an intuitive psychic. IMPROVISED LAW AND ORDER is part of Synergy Theater's current season at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek, California. Find your tickets for their next show, Improvised Dungeons & Dragons, through SynergyTheater.com. Get your tickets now because IMPROVISED LAW AND ORDER was a sell out!

SynergyTheater.com

]]> full 30 5 false Hello Improvisers! In our 30th episode, we talk with Elyse Iovino who joined Synergy Theater in 2023. We talk about Synergy's current show: IMPROVISED LAW AND ORDER, what surprised Elyse about the show, and Elyse's passion for helping people as an intuitive psychic. IMPROVISED LAW AND ORDER is part of Synergy Theater's current season at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek, California. Find your tickets for their next show, Improvised Dungeons & Dragons, through SynergyTheater.com. Get your tickets now because IMPROVISED LAW AND ORDER was a sell out!

SynergyTheater.com

]]> 00:47:06 <![CDATA[In the Zone with Arastoo Darakhshan]]> Thu, 10 Oct 2024 12:45:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1852583 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/in-the-zone-with-arastoo-darakhshan Arastoo Darakhshan is a composer, producer, teacher and performer. Arastoo is an alum of Berkeley Improv and is a familiar cast member in Synergy Theater performances. Arastoo's newest role is as the director of the upcoming Improvised Twilight Zone. Val Jord, Arastoo, and I talk about Arastoo's inspiration for the Improvised Twilight Zone and the show's unique challenges. The Improvised Twilight Zone opens at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek, Thursday, October 17th, 2024. Podcast episode spoiler alert! We have a few impromptu musical treats in store for you.

Get your tickets to the Improvised Twilight Zone now! (Val and I think that this will be a sold-out show!) Visit Synergy Theater's website to purchase tickets. We'll see you there!

Synergy Theater

Synergy Theater Cast Members

Arastoo Darakhshan on Instagram

Arastoo Darakhshan on Sound Cloud

]]> full 29 5 false Arastoo Darakhshan is a composer, producer, teacher and performer. Arastoo is an alum of Berkeley Improv and is a familiar cast member in Synergy Theater performances. Arastoo's newest role is as the director of the upcoming Improvised Twilight Zone. Val Jord, Arastoo, and I talk about Arastoo's inspiration for the Improvised Twilight Zone and the show's unique challenges. The Improvised Twilight Zone opens at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek, Thursday, October 17th, 2024. Podcast episode spoiler alert! We have a few impromptu musical treats in store for you.

Get your tickets to the Improvised Twilight Zone now! (Val and I think that this will be a sold-out show!) Visit Synergy Theater's website to purchase tickets. We'll see you there!

Synergy Theater

Synergy Theater Cast Members

Arastoo Darakhshan on Instagram

Arastoo Darakhshan on Sound Cloud

]]> 00:44:46 <![CDATA[Spontaneous Soap with Lynn & Val]]> Thu, 11 Jul 2024 13:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1781518 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/spontaneous-soap-with-lynn-val Hello Improvisers! Mark it on your calendars: Thusday July 18th, 2024, The Lesher Center in Walnut Creek welcomes Synergy Theater's latest show: SPONTANEOUS SOAP! In this episode, Val Jord and I sit down with Lynn Shields - creator and director. We "sit down", IN PERSON! That's right - this is our FIRST LIVE AND IN-PERSON interview. A big thank you to Lynn and Val for taking the time to meet together. We created an incredible episode!

We talk about the SPONTANEOUS SOAP'S origin, challenges, and unique format. You're not going to want to miss one single "episode" of SPONTANEOUS SOAP!

Tickets

SynergryTheater.com 

]]> full 28 4 false Hello Improvisers! Mark it on your calendars: Thusday July 18th, 2024, The Lesher Center in Walnut Creek welcomes Synergy Theater's latest show: SPONTANEOUS SOAP! In this episode, Val Jord and I sit down with Lynn Shields - creator and director. We "sit down", IN PERSON! That's right - this is our FIRST LIVE AND IN-PERSON interview. A big thank you to Lynn and Val for taking the time to meet together. We created an incredible episode!

We talk about the SPONTANEOUS SOAP'S origin, challenges, and unique format. You're not going to want to miss one single "episode" of SPONTANEOUS SOAP!

Tickets

SynergryTheater.com 

]]> 00:37:43 <![CDATA[My Dearest Rachel Kumaar & Valerie]]> Thu, 11 Apr 2024 13:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1714224 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/my-dearest-rachel-kumaar-valerie Hello Friends! Do you have your My Dearest Love - Synergy's newest show - tickets yet? If yes, then Valerie Jord and I look forward to seeing you April 18 - April 28th, Thursdays - Sundays at the Lesher Center for the Arts. Our show's guest today is Rachel Kumaar. Rachel joined the Synergy Theater cast not long ago. We talk about interesting transitions in life, surprises in Improv, and much more. You're going to LOVE this interview. Be sure to check out the Kumaar Family on YouTube. Have a listen and you'll see what I mean!

SynergyTheater.com

The Kumaar Family on You Tube

]]> full 27 false Hello Friends! Do you have your My Dearest Love - Synergy's newest show - tickets yet? If yes, then Valerie Jord and I look forward to seeing you April 18 - April 28th, Thursdays - Sundays at the Lesher Center for the Arts. Our show's guest today is Rachel Kumaar. Rachel joined the Synergy Theater cast not long ago. We talk about interesting transitions in life, surprises in Improv, and much more. You're going to LOVE this interview. Be sure to check out the Kumaar Family on YouTube. Have a listen and you'll see what I mean!

SynergyTheater.com

The Kumaar Family on You Tube

]]> 00:44:49 <![CDATA[A Bowlful of Adventure Serial with Griffen & Addam]]> Thu, 25 Jan 2024 14:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1638930 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/a-bowlful-of-adventure-serial-with-griffen-addam Adventure Serial awaits! In this episode we talk about Synergy Theater's newest show based on the adventure-genre storytelling that we all love. Adventure Serial kicks off February 1st, 2024, and runs to February 11th. Get your season tickets now!

SynergyTheater.com

Griffen Bier

Addam Ledamyen

 

]]> full 26 4 false Adventure Serial awaits! In this episode we talk about Synergy Theater's newest show based on the adventure-genre storytelling that we all love. Adventure Serial kicks off February 1st, 2024, and runs to February 11th. Get your season tickets now!

SynergyTheater.com

Griffen Bier

Addam Ledamyen

 

]]> 00:43:52 <![CDATA[Just in Time for Zombies with Justin Carns]]> Mon, 23 Oct 2023 13:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1582183 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/just-in-time-for-zombies-with-justin-carns Hello Friends!

Synergy Theater's "Z is for Zombie" is at the Lesher Center now to October 29th! "Z is for Zombie" kicks off Synergy Theater's new season of 2023-2024 shows. Visit SynergyTheater.com to get your tickets and to check out classes and programs.

Justin Carns is a long-time performing member of Synergy Theater. For our interview with Justin, Val and I are excited to present you with something other than our usual interview format. We hope that you enjoy! See the link below for a hint!

Write Away with Freestyle Rep and Synergy Theater

]]> full 25 3 false Hello Friends!

Synergy Theater's "Z is for Zombie" is at the Lesher Center now to October 29th! "Z is for Zombie" kicks off Synergy Theater's new season of 2023-2024 shows. Visit SynergyTheater.com to get your tickets and to check out classes and programs.

Justin Carns is a long-time performing member of Synergy Theater. For our interview with Justin, Val and I are excited to present you with something other than our usual interview format. We hope that you enjoy! See the link below for a hint!

Write Away with Freestyle Rep and Synergy Theater

]]> 00:39:58 <![CDATA[Improv World Creation from A to Zombie with Adrián Bosada]]> Tue, 12 Sep 2023 13:39:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1553931 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/improv-world-creation-from-a-to-zombie-with-adrian-bosada Valerie Jord and I are happy to present to you - Adrián Bosada, a performing member of Synergy Theater. We talk about Adrián's experiences in Improv, his journey from Los Angeles to San Francisco, and (from his study of animation to...) how Adrián uses physicality in Improv.

Synergy Theater's "Z is for... Zombie" - An Improvised Zombie Apocalypse - begins October 19th, 2023, and runs through October 29th, at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek California. Get your tickets now! Go to SynergyTheater.com, and click on Performances.

Val and I hope that this interview with Adrián inspires you to take risks and give weight to your imagination as you create your worlds. Don't forget to do your Improv homework assigned in the intro! We'll see you in the theater!

]]> full 24 3 false Valerie Jord and I are happy to present to you - Adrián Bosada, a performing member of Synergy Theater. We talk about Adrián's experiences in Improv, his journey from Los Angeles to San Francisco, and (from his study of animation to...) how Adrián uses physicality in Improv.

Synergy Theater's "Z is for... Zombie" - An Improvised Zombie Apocalypse - begins October 19th, 2023, and runs through October 29th, at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek California. Get your tickets now! Go to SynergyTheater.com, and click on Performances.

Val and I hope that this interview with Adrián inspires you to take risks and give weight to your imagination as you create your worlds. Don't forget to do your Improv homework assigned in the intro! We'll see you in the theater!

]]> 00:45:45 <![CDATA[Uplifting Others is a Class (Improv) Act with Rev. Beth Carroll & Actor Rich Perez]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:45:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1540290 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/uplifting-others-is-a-class-improv-act-with-rev-beth-carroll-actor-rich-perez Yet another great reason for you to take a Synergy Theater improv class: you get to meet people like Rev. Beth Carroll and Actor/Writer/Artisic Director Rich Perez! We talk first to Beth about her journey from mild-mannered Sales Manager to Sr. Pastor at Oakland City Church. Then we talk with Rich about his career in The Arts and friendship with Kenn Adams. Beth and Rich each talk about how Kenn's Improv teachings help them in their daily adventures and aspirations.

Find out more about Beth's leadership at Oakland City Church at OaklandCityChurch.org.

See Rich onstage in The Birds before 9/9/23 at the Altarena Playhouse - Altarena.org.

Synergy Theater has a new season of shows starting 10/19/23, with "Z is for... ZOMBIE"! Visit SynergyTheater.com, to get your tickets. Season tickets are available! See you there!

]]> full 23 3 false Yet another great reason for you to take a Synergy Theater improv class: you get to meet people like Rev. Beth Carroll and Actor/Writer/Artisic Director Rich Perez! We talk first to Beth about her journey from mild-mannered Sales Manager to Sr. Pastor at Oakland City Church. Then we talk with Rich about his career in The Arts and friendship with Kenn Adams. Beth and Rich each talk about how Kenn's Improv teachings help them in their daily adventures and aspirations.

Find out more about Beth's leadership at Oakland City Church at OaklandCityChurch.org.

See Rich onstage in The Birds before 9/9/23 at the Altarena Playhouse - Altarena.org.

Synergy Theater has a new season of shows starting 10/19/23, with "Z is for... ZOMBIE"! Visit SynergyTheater.com, to get your tickets. Season tickets are available! See you there!

]]> 00:47:35 <![CDATA[The Pied Piper of Synergy Theater Improv with Ben & Valerie]]> Mon, 03 Jul 2023 13:45:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1509131 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/the-pied-piper-of-synergy-theater-improv-with-ben-valerie Who is Ben Piper? Is Ben a mythical forest-dwelling creature who is elusive when it comes to interviews? Not really. Ben is a Synergy Theater performer, Improviser, Dad, and all-around great guy! In our Interview with Ben, we discuss Ben's Improv "origin story" and roll from there right into Synergy's new show: A ROLL OF THE DICE. Each scene is created by chance! What are the challenges? What are the thrills? Ben tells all.

Get your tickets now for Synergy Theater's A ROLL OF THE DICE! Performances begin July 13th, 2023! Head to synergytheater.com and click on Performances. Valerie and I will see you there!

]]> full 22 2 false Who is Ben Piper? Is Ben a mythical forest-dwelling creature who is elusive when it comes to interviews? Not really. Ben is a Synergy Theater performer, Improviser, Dad, and all-around great guy! In our Interview with Ben, we discuss Ben's Improv "origin story" and roll from there right into Synergy's new show: A ROLL OF THE DICE. Each scene is created by chance! What are the challenges? What are the thrills? Ben tells all.

Get your tickets now for Synergy Theater's A ROLL OF THE DICE! Performances begin July 13th, 2023! Head to synergytheater.com and click on Performances. Valerie and I will see you there!

]]> 00:50:01 <![CDATA[A Benny for Your Thoughts on The Mating Game with Benny & Valerie]]> Mon, 10 Apr 2023 14:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1455451 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/a-benny-for-your-thoughts-on-the-mating-game-with-benny-valerie It's here! It's here! Synergy Theater's THE MATING GAME opens at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, CA, this week, Thursday April 13th! Visit SyngeryTheater.com and look for "Performances" to get your tickets now. In this interview - which took longer than expected to schedule (Benny explains why) - Benjamin "Benny" Garcia joins us for the first time. Benny is an incredible Improviser and the newest performer to join Synergy Theater's cast. We talk about about 11-year-old Benny's experience with an Italian youth-theater director, ("You're all RATS!"), how Benny first found Improvised Theater, and the dating show Benny would design if he could. If that were'nt enough, Benny's cat Carl makes a guest appearance and we play a game during which Valerie asks Benny a question I never could have expected. Once again, THE MATING GAME opens at The Lesher Center for the Arts Thursday April 13, 2023, and runs to April 23, 2023. See you there!

 

]]> full 21 2 false It's here! It's here! Synergy Theater's THE MATING GAME opens at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, CA, this week, Thursday April 13th! Visit SyngeryTheater.com and look for "Performances" to get your tickets now. In this interview - which took longer than expected to schedule (Benny explains why) - Benjamin "Benny" Garcia joins us for the first time. Benny is an incredible Improviser and the newest performer to join Synergy Theater's cast. We talk about about 11-year-old Benny's experience with an Italian youth-theater director, ("You're all RATS!"), how Benny first found Improvised Theater, and the dating show Benny would design if he could. If that were'nt enough, Benny's cat Carl makes a guest appearance and we play a game during which Valerie asks Benny a question I never could have expected. Once again, THE MATING GAME opens at The Lesher Center for the Arts Thursday April 13, 2023, and runs to April 23, 2023. See you there!

 

]]> 00:49:12 <![CDATA[The Mating Game with Valerie R. & Kenn Adams]]> Mon, 06 Mar 2023 15:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1429460 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/the-mating-game-with-valerie-r-kenn-adams What's The Mating Game, you ask? Well, Valerie Regalia, creator and director of Synergy Theater's upcoming new show The Mating Game, answers all your(my) questions. And for the first time Kenn Adams, Synergy Theater's Artistic Director, joins us! We talk about what stands out when improvising a play about relationships. We also discuss The Mating Game's dreamlike and metaphoric qualities. By the end of this episode you'll think: I MUST SEE THIS SHOW! You can! Head to SynergyTheater.com, and click on Performances. If you reside outside the Bay Area in Northern California, The Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, (where Synergy Theater performs), is a great place to spend a spring vacation! Come see The Mating Game April 13th-23rd, 2023.

]]> full 20 2 false What's The Mating Game, you ask? Well, Valerie Regalia, creator and director of Synergy Theater's upcoming new show The Mating Game, answers all your(my) questions. And for the first time Kenn Adams, Synergy Theater's Artistic Director, joins us! We talk about what stands out when improvising a play about relationships. We also discuss The Mating Game's dreamlike and metaphoric qualities. By the end of this episode you'll think: I MUST SEE THIS SHOW! You can! Head to SynergyTheater.com, and click on Performances. If you reside outside the Bay Area in Northern California, The Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, (where Synergy Theater performs), is a great place to spend a spring vacation! Come see The Mating Game April 13th-23rd, 2023.

]]> 00:50:39 <![CDATA[Synergy Theater's The Mating Game with Valerie and Sarah]]> Mon, 20 Feb 2023 15:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1416920 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/synergy-theater39s-the-mating-game-with-valerie-and-sarah Welcome to The Mating Game! Valerie Jord and I discuss Synergy Theater's upcoming show based on the 1970's game show The Dating Game. The MATING Game begins April 13th, 2023, at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek California. Valerie and I also talk about our memories of the 70s, the origins of this podcast, and why Valerie hasn't taken any Improv classes yet -- even though she's Synergy's #1 fan, videographer, and Mom to Griffen Bier, Synergy player. Also, Valerie's question about what Improvisers should do when their character is confronted with a question that they don't know how to answer sparks an incredible conversation about character work!

The Mating Game is created and directed by Valerie Regalia, Synergy Theater player and past guest of the podcast. If you are in or around the Bay Area April 13th to April 23rd, 2023, head over to SynergyTheater.com for tickets and showtimes. While you're there check out the in-person and online classes starting every six weeks!

]]> full 19 2 false Welcome to The Mating Game! Valerie Jord and I discuss Synergy Theater's upcoming show based on the 1970's game show The Dating Game. The MATING Game begins April 13th, 2023, at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek California. Valerie and I also talk about our memories of the 70s, the origins of this podcast, and why Valerie hasn't taken any Improv classes yet -- even though she's Synergy's #1 fan, videographer, and Mom to Griffen Bier, Synergy player. Also, Valerie's question about what Improvisers should do when their character is confronted with a question that they don't know how to answer sparks an incredible conversation about character work!

The Mating Game is created and directed by Valerie Regalia, Synergy Theater player and past guest of the podcast. If you are in or around the Bay Area April 13th to April 23rd, 2023, head over to SynergyTheater.com for tickets and showtimes. While you're there check out the in-person and online classes starting every six weeks!

]]> 00:34:47 <![CDATA[Spontaneous Myth & Magic with Lynn & Valerie]]> Mon, 16 Jan 2023 15:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1378095 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/spontaneous-myth-magic-with-lynn-valerie Hello Friends!

Valerie Jord and I are happy to let you know that Synergy Theater is back at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, CA, with a new show: Spontaneous Myth & Magic. If you could help rewrite ancient myths, what suggestions would you make? What new stories would you prompt about the origins of everything?

Visit SynergyTheater.com, click on Performances, and get a front-row seat to the remaking of epic legends. Lynn Shields, this episode's fantastic guest, and the rest of the Synergy Theater players look forward to your suggestions!

Spontaneous Myth & Magic is on stage now, January 12-22, 2023. If you miss Myth & Magic - there are more shows on the way. Visit SynergyTheater.com to learn more.

]]> full 18 2 false Hello Friends!

Valerie Jord and I are happy to let you know that Synergy Theater is back at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, CA, with a new show: Spontaneous Myth & Magic. If you could help rewrite ancient myths, what suggestions would you make? What new stories would you prompt about the origins of everything?

Visit SynergyTheater.com, click on Performances, and get a front-row seat to the remaking of epic legends. Lynn Shields, this episode's fantastic guest, and the rest of the Synergy Theater players look forward to your suggestions!

Spontaneous Myth & Magic is on stage now, January 12-22, 2023. If you miss Myth & Magic - there are more shows on the way. Visit SynergyTheater.com to learn more.

]]> 00:44:09 <![CDATA[A Spontaneous Hitchcock Finale with Eileen and Valerie]]> Sun, 30 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1307898 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/a-spontaneous-hitchcock-finale-with-eileen-and-valerie Eileen Tumlin is here! Eileen is a teacher, architect, improviser, aspiring puppeteer and more! Valerie Jord brings wonderful questions to the interview and we talk about Eileen's first foray into Improvised Theater, introverts, Hitchcock, why Hitchcock chose to film Psycho in black and white, and what Eileen (and Hitchcock) find creepy that others may not.

Spontaneous Hitchcock ends October 30, 2022, but there are more Synergy Theater shows on the way. If you haven't already, become a subscriber - not just to the podcast, but as a ticket-holder too! Find out more at SynergyTheater.com.

]]> full 17 2 false Eileen Tumlin is here! Eileen is a teacher, architect, improviser, aspiring puppeteer and more! Valerie Jord brings wonderful questions to the interview and we talk about Eileen's first foray into Improvised Theater, introverts, Hitchcock, why Hitchcock chose to film Psycho in black and white, and what Eileen (and Hitchcock) find creepy that others may not.

Spontaneous Hitchcock ends October 30, 2022, but there are more Synergy Theater shows on the way. If you haven't already, become a subscriber - not just to the podcast, but as a ticket-holder too! Find out more at SynergyTheater.com.

]]> 00:42:24 <![CDATA[Improv is for Hitchcock's The Birds with Paul and Valerie]]> Thu, 27 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1306390 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/improv-is-for-hitchcock39s-the-birds-with-paul-and-valerie-1 In this episode, Valerie Jord and I are joined by Paul Hansen - Synergy Theater student, Hitchcock fan, and more. Paul's knowledge of Hitchcock, Shakespeare, and the snack habits of Singapore monkeys is a treat!

Spontaneous Hitchcock is here and the rest of Synergy Theater's 2022-2023 season is on the way! Get your tickets now at SynergyTheater.com. 

]]> full 16 2 false In this episode, Valerie Jord and I are joined by Paul Hansen - Synergy Theater student, Hitchcock fan, and more. Paul's knowledge of Hitchcock, Shakespeare, and the snack habits of Singapore monkeys is a treat!

Spontaneous Hitchcock is here and the rest of Synergy Theater's 2022-2023 season is on the way! Get your tickets now at SynergyTheater.com. 

]]> 00:34:46 <![CDATA[The Art of the Not-Improvised Costume with Nikki and Valerie]]> Fri, 21 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1294993 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/the-art-of-the-not-improvised-costume-with-nikki-and-valerie In this interview with Nikki Vilas, Synergy Theater performer, we have fun talking about costumes for Spontaneous Hitchcock. How does the cast find the right period-appropriate pieces? What styles do they adapt? What about period-appropriate set pieces? Also, Valerie Jord shares what she enjoys about the pictures and video she takes - including what she captures of the stage sets before a Synergy Theater show even begins!

Have a listen and find out why we're so excited to see what the cast will be wearing for Synergy Theater's Improvised Hitchcock! Hope to see you there, or at a future Synergy Theater show. Visit SynergyTheater.com to find showtimes and more!

]]> full 15 2 false In this interview with Nikki Vilas, Synergy Theater performer, we have fun talking about costumes for Spontaneous Hitchcock. How does the cast find the right period-appropriate pieces? What styles do they adapt? What about period-appropriate set pieces? Also, Valerie Jord shares what she enjoys about the pictures and video she takes - including what she captures of the stage sets before a Synergy Theater show even begins!

Have a listen and find out why we're so excited to see what the cast will be wearing for Synergy Theater's Improvised Hitchcock! Hope to see you there, or at a future Synergy Theater show. Visit SynergyTheater.com to find showtimes and more!

]]> 00:36:17 <![CDATA[The Best Improv Show Yet with Valerie and Val]]> Fri, 14 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1293814 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/the-best-improv-show-yet-with-valerie-and-val Hello! There's just a few days left. Synergy Theater will be back in the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, CA, October 20-30, 2022, for Spontaneous Hitchcock! You'd be crazy to miss it. But if you still need more convincing, just listen to our guest and Synergy Theater performer Valerie Regalia. We talk about everything from performing improv with your mother after a freak bicycle accident to what Valerie hopes to gain from performing Spontaneous Hitchcock before the final curtain falls.

Valerie Jord is back too! Yay! And because there are two Valeries in this episode: Valerie Regalia = Valerie. Valerie Jord = Val. Got it? Good! Now on to the interview!

SynergyTheater.com

]]> full 14 2 false Hello! There's just a few days left. Synergy Theater will be back in the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, CA, October 20-30, 2022, for Spontaneous Hitchcock! You'd be crazy to miss it. But if you still need more convincing, just listen to our guest and Synergy Theater performer Valerie Regalia. We talk about everything from performing improv with your mother after a freak bicycle accident to what Valerie hopes to gain from performing Spontaneous Hitchcock before the final curtain falls.

Valerie Jord is back too! Yay! And because there are two Valeries in this episode: Valerie Regalia = Valerie. Valerie Jord = Val. Got it? Good! Now on to the interview!

SynergyTheater.com

]]> 00:38:15 <![CDATA[Spontaneous Spookiness with Arastoo and Valerie]]> Fri, 07 Oct 2022 14:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/27139/episode/1289852 https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/spontaneous-spookiness-with-arastoo-and-valerie If you're not "dying" to see Synergy Theater's Spontaneous Hitchcock by the end of this episode, then you should check your pulse! Synergy Theater will perform their Spontaneous Hitchcock - A Thriller in the Style of the Master of Suspense - at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, California, October 20-30, 2022! Grab your seat, (you'll only need the edge), by visiting SynergyTheater.com.

In this episode we welcome Arastoo Darkashan back to the podcast. Arastoo is a Synergy Theater performer, and artist, Improv teacher, and frelance musician and sound designer. We talk about rehearsing for Spontaneous Hitchcock, what suprises may be in store for the audience, and (if that weren't enough) Arastoo generously shares with us an original composition made especially for Synergy Theater's Spontaneous Hitchcock. It's chilling! Don't listen alone!

Synergy Theater

Arastoo.com

]]> full 13 2 false If you're not "dying" to see Synergy Theater's Spontaneous Hitchcock by the end of this episode, then you should check your pulse! Synergy Theater will perform their Spontaneous Hitchcock - A Thriller in the Style of the Master of Suspense - at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, California, October 20-30, 2022! Grab your seat, (you'll only need the edge), by visiting SynergyTheater.com.

In this episode we welcome Arastoo Darkashan back to the podcast. Arastoo is a Synergy Theater performer, and artist, Improv teacher, and frelance musician and sound designer. We talk about rehearsing for Spontaneous Hitchcock, what suprises may be in store for the audience, and (if that weren't enough) Arastoo generously shares with us an original composition made especially for Synergy Theater's Spontaneous Hitchcock. It's chilling! Don't listen alone!

Synergy Theater

Arastoo.com

]]> 00:37:06 <![CDATA[Improvised Hitchcock with Griffen and Valerie]]> Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0000 Sarah Wilson https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/podcasts/27139/episodes/improvised-hitchcock-with-griffen-and-valerie https://improv-in-practice-with-synergy-theater.castos.com/episodes/improvised-hitchcock-with-griffen-and-valerie Find out all about Synergy Theater's Improvised Hitchcock from Griffen Bier and Valerie Jord! We find out: What is a Mid-Atlantic accent? Which Hitchcock film spooked Valerie for life? How do you use silence in an improvised scene to build suspense? Which Hitchcock film would you pick to enter as a cameo appearance? Plus Hitchcock trivia!

]]> full 12 2 false Find out all about Synergy Theater's Improvised Hitchcock from Griffen Bier and Valerie Jord! We find out: What is a Mid-Atlantic accent? Which Hitchcock film spooked Valerie for life? How do you use silence in an improvised scene to build suspense? Which Hitchcock film would you pick to enter as a cameo appearance? Plus Hitchcock trivia!

]]> 00:44:44