Action Theater with a side of Zen
Schedule
Fri, 06 Mar, 2026 at 06:00 pm to Sun, 08 Mar, 2026 at 05:00 pm
UTC-08:00Location
Heart Of Wisdom Zen Temple | Portland, OR
Advertisement
In this 3-day workshop, we’ll be moving between Zen practices and Action Theater improvisation to discover freedom and spontaneity. Both practices nourish creativity by offering space, acceptance, and a belief that all we need lies within our immediate experience. In a time of frequent fear and catastrophe, we take refuge in playing with what is true - the light and the dark, the beautiful and the ugly. Through the embodiment and presence that Action Theater and Zen offer, we can learn to play, create, and share our true selves. Thus, we bring light to the path we are all walking together. We will meditate, sound with bells, move, vocalize, and verbalize in this workshop. We will do exercises in solo, with partners, and in ensemble, experimenting with how these practices of presence feed one another to enrich self-discovery. This workshop will be led by Mary and Nathaniel in collaboration with Doug Kagel of Heart of Wisdom Zen Temple.
Mary Rose and Nathaniel Holder have been teaching Action Theater together since 2018. They are both long-time practitioners who studied extensively with Ruth Zaporah, the creator of the practice. Mary, with a background in theater and dance, and Nathaniel in dance, music, Processwork therapy, and Buddhist meditation, create a dynamic teaching team that is constantly evolving.
Doug Kagel has been interested in creativity for many years. He started an improv practice with Kelman Works and then Action Theater. He loves exploring more freedom through these practices. He practices with the Zen Community of Oregon at Heart of Wisdom Zen Temple. He has been practicing at Heart of Wisdom for over 15 years. He has been chant leader, bell ringer and drummer. Zen is his spiritual and ethical compass.
SCHEDULE: Friday 6-8:30pm, Saturday 10am-1pm & 3-6pm, Sunday 12:30-3pm
LOCATION: Heart of Wisdom Zen Temple, 6401 NE 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97211
COST: Sliding scale $260-360. Please give as much as you can so we can cover all costs and get paid for our time. Please contact us if the low end is still too high for you. Our hope is that enough people can pay the higher end of the scale so that we can accommodate supporting everyone who wants to participate. Let’s make it work! We're asking for a non-refundable $50 deposit to secure your spot with registration.
PARTICIPANTS: Max of 25. No experience necessary in either practice.
FOOD: Bring your own food or plan to eat out for our snack and meal breaks.
Please contact us with any questions, suggestions or concerns. Details about what to bring will be sent after registration.
Advertisement
Where is it happening?
Heart Of Wisdom Zen Temple, 6401 NE 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97211-3623, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
