CA State Thespian Festival 2026

An Actor's freedom of movement and ability to play are of the utmost importance when it comes to working professionally on stage and screen. Having Improvisation experience is a must, as it curates strong choices and commitment to the work- but what about trusting our Improv? Join Katie Reeves Northlich as she guides you through the vulnerability and exploration of Improv basics: the art of play, making big choices in the moment, facing fear of Improv in front of others, and the freedom to be yourself in the moment. Through warmups and exercises, Katie will guide you to trusting the most essential part of your craft: your authenticity!

An Actors' training is refined in its scope. Everything from vocal performance, to text analysis, to period piece work: these are just a handful of elements that round out a comprehensive study of the craft, giving Actors a broad palette from which to draw from as professionals.


.... But what about play?


What is often overlooked in the Acting conversation is how silliness and goofiness are actually quite elegant. Trusting one's own unique authenticity and instincts when it comes to creating play in a space is one of the highest abilities of an Actor, for it reveals an Actor's trust in their own freedom. Through Improv exercises and group work, join Katie Reeves Northlich for a day of taking play seriously!

An Actors' training is refined in its scope. Everything from vocal performance, to text analysis, to period piece work: these are just a handful of elements that round out a comprehensive study of the craft, giving Actors a broad palette from which to draw from as professionals.


.... But what about play?


What is often overlooked in the Acting conversation is how silliness and goofiness are actually quite elegant. Trusting one's own unique authenticity and instincts when it comes to creating play in a space is one of the highest abilities of an Actor, for it reveals an Actor's trust in their own freedom. Through Improv exercises and group work, join Katie Reeves Northlich for a day of taking play seriously!