Since moving from New York (where he trained and taught at the Upright Citizen’s Brigade Theatre), actor/instructor Matt Donnelly performed in Wayne Brady’s Making It Up (The Venetian), before taking-on his current role, in 50 Shades: The Parody (Bally’s Las Vegas).  He’s the co-Host (with Paul Mattingly) of the popular podcast, Matt and Mattingly’s Ice Cream Social, and has just wrapped his third season with Penn & Teller: Fool Us (The CW), where he serves as the head comedy writer.

Meanwhile, currently ruling the roost, as the emcee for Channing Tatum’s Magic Mike Live (Hard Rock Hotel & Casino), comedian/instructor Lyndsay Hailey is an improv institution in Chicago, where her solo show, 30% Chance of Hailey was named “Critic’s Choice” by the Chicago Reader, who deemed it “one of the best, most inventive solo-productions, in years.”  She’s taught improve and acting in more than ten countries (including the US, UK, Canada, France, Australia, Belgium, Austria, Sweden, and Poland), where her classes have been hailed as “a celebration of humanity, that helps each student tap into their core.”

Now these two talented and funny folks have teamed-up with Mark Shunock (The Space) to present Improv International – a workshop for anyone interested in learning how to think on their feet.  Created less for actors and entertainers, but rather for “regular” people from any walk of life, Improv International encourages its members to take-part in such improvisational techniques as ad-libbing, quick-thinking, acting, and characterizing actions, for use in their everyday lives, and at work.

“I think it's important for professionals based in Las Vegas to have the opportunity to continue to grow.  Not only for those of us who make a living on stage, but also for those who need to be quick on their feet.  The biggest thing missing in Vegas is professional level classes for professionals living in Las Vegas.  Lyndsay and Matt quickly fill that void, and I can't wait to take the workshop,” says Shunock, himself the former lead of Rock of Ages, and creator of The Space (Las Vegas’ zhuzhy new arts complex comprised of a 3,000 sq. ft. raw performance space, a black box theater, two rehearsal studios, podcast/recording studio, and a vintage piano bar and lounge). 

Adds Hailey, “I teach Improv because I needed to learn how to be present in my own life.  Improv helped me release my personal fears, blocks and obstacles that kept me trapped in my mind. This art form demands that you say ‘Yes, and…’ to yourself and the world.  Improv provides a workable system to living in the present moment.  Since, I feel that presence is the key to great acting and performing; once you understand how to get there, you’re able to unlock your limitless potential as a performer and a human being.” 

Improv International launches with a master class weekend workshop on Friday, July 21st and Saturday, July 22nd, from 1-4pm; followed by an intensive 6-8 week course. The cost of the weekend master class is $125, and registration is currently available to 20 students, on a first-come/first-served basis. 

Improv International
The Space
Click HERE for info and registration

Get into it!
#TheSpaceLV