Improv Stage Presence & Awareness Workshop

Command the stage with confidence, clarity, and creativity. This workshop focuses on the physical and vocal fundamentals that help improvisers stay grounded, connected, and compelling in performance. We’ll explore how to create strong stage pictures, maintain eye lines, and avoid turning your back to the audience—all while making dynamic use of space. From levels and depth to playing in and with the audience’s space, you’ll learn to give your scenes physical dimension and visual impact. On the vocal side, we'll dive into projection, articulation, and vocal presence, helping you stay clearly understood even when using emotional expression or distinct character voices. Whether you're whispering through a breakup or growling as a troll, you’ll learn how to be heard and understood without losing the nuance of your performance. Perfect for improvisers at any level looking to sharpen their stagecraft, connect with the audience, and bring more intention and power to their performances—physically, vocally, and collaboratively.

Daytime workshops at the Big Couch Binge offer something for improvisers of all levels—from those just starting out to seasoned performers looking to deepen their skills. This particular workshop does require basic improv knowledge.

And, don't forget about our multi-workshop passes that provide a discount when taking more than one workshop on either day. See our full event page for workshop bundles.

About the Instructor - Ellery Abel

Ellery Abel began her theatrical career in a community musical at the age of 5 with her first ever line “follow the yellow brick road.” A West Coast native, Ellery grew up in the Portland area with a passion for the performing arts. She joined her first improv troupe in 2017 while attending the University of Oregon. Shortly after moving to New Orleans in early 2022, Ellery arrived at Audubon Park one Saturday and was forced to choose between joining a yoga class and an improv jam. Ellery chose wisely and has been working with Big Couch ever since. She created and currently produces and performs in Spicy Bits, a short-form improv comedy show where the performers play games while eating progressively hotter hot sauces. When not improvising, Ellery can be found working as a scenic painter in the TV and film industry, at the gym teaching a fitness class, or enjoying a good book.

Host or Publisher Big Couch