Written by David McConnell
Tucked away securely in an Arts wing at the University of Guelph’s MacKinnon Building is a structure simply known as The Improv Lab. Part of the International Institute for Critical Studies in Improvisation (IICSI), this state-of-the-art facility provides opportunities for faculty and students to research, explore, workshop and perform a variety of creative, improvisational concepts spanning several artistic disciplines such as music, theatre, dance and design. The space itself embodies a black box environment that allows a variety of physical configurations to be developed inside its expansive internal setting while, at the same time, allowing a visual connection to the scenic outside courtyard which is revealed through a wall of ceiling to floor window installations. The facility itself is defined by its flexibility of use.
Some of the more important features that make this a one-of-a-kind environment for the Arts at the University and, by extension, within the city of Guelph include sophisticated, highly adaptable stage lighting capable of embellishing any type of performance; telematic, live stream ready audio and video equipment; flexible Stage Tek Risers; a state-of-the-art sound system; and a Tarkett Sports sprung dance floor which comfortably accommodates any type of dance. Added to this are a collection of in-house musical instruments including a Steinway baby grand piano, a variety of synthesizers and more. Adjoining this impressive theatre stage is a multi-purpose green room. All of this was made possible through the collaboration of the University of Guelph and its College of Arts, as well as the Canadian Foundation for Innovation.
The mandate of the IISCI is “to create positive social change through the confluence of improvisational arts, innovative scholarship, and collaborative activities.” This statement was elaborated on more when speaking with Jordan Zalis, currently pursuing post-doctoral research and creative collaboration with IICSI and the Improv Lab. “This space,” he said, “is where we pursue a sense of ethical dialogue. The question arises: how do you start from silence in a room? The answer: by listening intently to what people have to say.” Jordan went on to add that this is a place where spur of the moment creativity and collaboration can occur, where risk=taking and experimentation is encouraged for the better good of all involved. The ability to share ideas openly and safely is a key component to any undertaking here.
Putting this more into context, Jordan went on to highlight the networking and involvement that IICSI and the Improv Lab have outside of the confines of the University of Guelph itself. “We utilize this space consistently within the community by working with organizations such as Musagetes, the Guelph Film Festival, The Guelph Jazz festival and Guelph Dance to name just a few.” Jordan also went on to add that Kids Ability, a group that works with kids of differing abilities, comes here with them to learn and make music, as do various high school classes wishing to gain new creative and collaborative insights. By engaging students and groups in the art of improvisation, the belief is that these opportunities will guide individuals into making the world a better place.
While initially a forum to research and explore aspects of jazz and bebop, the Improv Lab, as mentioned earlier, has become so much more. For example, through its highly developed technology, the Improv Lab can engage in real time discussion and performance simultaneously from countless locations around the world. And locally, the Improv Lab can be booked for interactive sessions of many types by individuals and groups when the site is available. All of this points to an environment motivated to help create improvisational connections with as many people as possible. Interested in finding out more? Simply go to theimprovlab.ca and see for yourself.
