Spotlight On: Gabriela Ellis Spotlight On: Gabriela Ellis
Improv Helps Kids Think On Their Feet
Ten-year-old Gabriela Ellis was 8 when
she took her first improv class in Bonita
Springs.
“She used to be sort of shy and reserved,”
her mother Michele Ellis said.
Two years later, Gabriela has followed
instructor Steve Cobb to the Sugden Theater
where he teaches a Saturday class
alongside Education Director, Craig Price.
The advanced group of about 10 kids
with a range of abilities meets each week
for two hours. They get together to riff
off each other in fun exercises meant to
prepare them for on-stage performances.
“Now her personality is shining through,”
Michele Ellis said. “I’m fearful of public
speaking, but she has the confidence
now to get up in front of groups and do
things like class presentations.”
Confidence is just one of the skills students
in the class learn.
Instructor Steve Cobb said improv teaches
kids skills they can use at home, too.
One of the methods they use in class is
called “yes, and.” Rather than saying no
to a question or prompt in a scene, which
can end a skit abruptly or make it more
difficult, they teach actors to go along
with things to help develop the story
more fully.
“I tell them to ‘yes, and’ their brothers,
sisters and parents too,” Cobb said,
meaning to be less confrontational and
more willing to see someone else’s perspective.
“It’s something they can bring
home; it’s a way of being.”
The advanced improv class is for students
ages 10 to 18 of all skill levels.
“Improv has taught me to think on my
feet, and make decisions for myself,” Ellis
said. “When I’m with this group, I feel like
I’m with my people. They get my sense
of humor.”
Gabriela Ellis (far left) warms up with the Improv for
Performance class before their showcase.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
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