Navasaras for Improvisers

In Indian aesthetic theory, actors can embody and emote 8 major emotional states + 1 emotionless state of peace and tranquillity. How can improvisers use physical "keys" to evoke these emotions authentically without harming themselves (think examples of "method acting gone wrong" - we're not going to do that anymore) and instantaneously? We need more emotions than sad, mad, glad, and scared on stage in 2025.

Students for this workshop will be comfortable with the following skills:

- Deep Listening (I zone out very rarely on stage).
- Building a simple narrative with at least 3-5 characters along with my co-improvisers.
- Emotional stability.
- Ability to not take things too personally.

About Your Teacher

Balasree (Bala) Viswanathan is a South Indian artist and improviser based in Bengaluru, India. Her teaching and performing practice is informed by her traditional Indian arts training, Indian mythology, deep meditation practice, and keen interest in the human psyche creating a distinct cultural blend. With experience teaching and performing across the US, Europe, and Southeast Asia, Bala offers a perspective that combines high-energy exploration with thoughtful reflection. Her workshops encourage improvisers to delve into their creative depths while considering their cultural backgrounds. She is co-founder and co-artistic director of Improv Lore in Bangalore.

Thursday 4th September
11am - 5pm
Squire PAC