Emily Watson moved to Australia from the US 10 years ago, armed with a degree in Studio Arts and Communications and an infectious passion for improvisation and comedy. She soon fell in love with the Mornington Peninsula, especially the beautiful beaches where she loves to scuba dive. Although busy as a mum and with her business drawing caricatures, Emily missed the connection she had enjoyed doing improv in the US. A chance conversation with a friend inspired her to start an improvisation group here on the Peninsula, and Improv for Life was born.
“Learning improv really changed my life, and I wanted to share this experience with others,” Emily said. “It’s called Improv for Life because as much as we have a lot of fun, it really is about learning skills that will help you in your day-to-day life – things like building your confidence, developing active listening, and learning not to fear failure, as there is no failure in improv, just a new way to approach things.”
If you’re wondering what improv classes are all about, Emily said to think of the TV game show Whose Line Is It anyway to get an idea. You will do group activities and play games that help you to connect, have fun and be spontaneous. You might play word games or act out different characters in a story. Expect a lot of laughter, although Emily is quick to point out you don’t need to try to be funny, just to enjoy the process. In Emily’s classes, everyone is welcome; it’s a safe place for those wary of public speaking or the awkwardness of making small talk.
Having a comedy background certainly helps Emily keep the mood light. As well as her funny caricatures and Improve for Life classes, Emily also performs stand-up comedy and is a broadcaster on Mornington-based radio station RPP FM with cartoonist Megan Herbert on their morning show You’re Welcome. Emily is also part of two other improv groups that occasionally also perform live.
Improv for Life takes place at RPP FM. Due to popular demand, Emily plans to offer both beginner and intermediate classes next year. Follow @EmilyWatsonComedy for more information.
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