Ben Zolno and Brendan "Monty" West

This workshop has been split into two sessions: 10AM - 1PM and 2PM - 5PM 

The purpose of Duets is to teach a conscious approach to style-mixing. At the beginning of this workshop, you will choose a partner and stay with them throughout this process. Identify what style of improv you want to do, and work with your chosen partner to discover your similarities and manage your differences, choosing what you want to keep and what you want to innovate. Practise finding your truth and techniques to shape a scene together.

Participants in this workshop will have the opportunity to be cast in the show ‘Duets’. Note that show casting is at the director’s discretion, and participation in the workshop does not guarantee a performance opportunity.

For more information on ensemble casting, please check out our FAQ.

Training in Chicago’s IO and Second City in the late 90s and early 2000s, most of Ben Zolno’s teaching has happened right here in Wellington. In the past two years, he’s taught over seventy students his Meisner-informed approach, through a series of classes, workshops, shows, and retreats.

Brendan “Monty” West has taught improv and theatre for fifteen years, primarily in the Waikato. Co-director of the MTE and Apoc Lounge companies, he has taught students ranging from high-school Theatresporters through to specialised troupes. Outside of the improv community, he also taught at Waikato University in the Theatre and English departments for five years before moving to Wellington. He favours deeply informed and cerebral improvisation, encouraging students to develop unique skillsets and specialisms.