Improv for Couples with Grindstone Theatre School

DATE :

Arts opportunity Theatre Edmonton Classes & Workshops

DEADLINE: July 25, 2026 - 12:30 pm

The Art of Yes And…: Couples Improv Workshop

Description:

Please join us as we pilot a new workshop.

July 25, 2026 from 12:30 to 3:00 pm

COST: $50

We are looking for pairs of humans choosing to be in it together—however that looks—through connection, chaos, and collaboration.

This playful, low-pressure workshop helps couples strengthen connection, communication, and trust through improv games designed to get you laughing, listening, and saying “yes” to each other.

Learning Objectives:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be further ahead in their ability to:

  • Apply the principle of “Yes, And” to support their partner’s ideas and build shared experiences
  • Build trust and connection through collaborative play and shared risk-taking

Facilitators:

Dr. Michelle Anderson-Draper and Sean Draper

Michelle and Sean have been married for over 30 years and share a long-standing love of play, creativity, and connection. Together, they’ve completed numerous improv courses and have performed with the Grindstone Theatre, bringing humour, spontaneity, and collaboration into both their stage work and everyday life. They are passionate about using improv as a tool to strengthen communication, deepen relationships, and remind people that the best moments are often unscripted.

Detailed Schedule

Welcome | Warm-Up Activities

·      Expectations and introduction: What’s your Brussels sprout?

·      Share: introduce your partner and share their best attribute?

·      Ball throwing (get to know all our names)

·      Mirroring exercise (no talking → movement only)

Principles of Improv: “Yes, And”

  • Mini teaching: “Yes, And” as acceptance + building

·       “Emotion Ping-Pong”: One partner says a neutral line (“We’re going on a trip tomorrow”). The other must respond with a strong emotion, then switch roles

·       Collaboration Challenge: Shared Scene Building: Pairs create short, improvised scenes. Start with asking for a location (“kitchen,” “airport,” “car ride”)

Reflection + Closing Circle (15 min)

·       Share a takeaway