|
Thanks Amy for being one of the best instructors I have ever had. Bar none!” – R.Gunn 2015
“Thanks for introducing me to the “crack pipe” of performing. LOL! You’re solely responsible for the fact that I’m out “jonesing” for an improv hit. ” – J. Silvestro 2014
“This was my first acting class ever. I’ve always wanted to become an actor, just never had the “b***s” to do it. When I finally decided to tackle it head on, and go after what I really want in life, I ended up in a class full of people who had fun and gave me confidence and belief, that I could accomplish whatever it is I put my mind to. I’m so happy and lucky to have taken a class filled with people that taught me something new every time I came to class. With that in mind I thank all of you, especially Amy, who made me break out of my shell and realize that it’s ok to fail, as long as you get back up”. – J Cuen, 2013
“We joined up because I thought it would be a fun birthday present for (my husband) and it ended up being something we both love doing together. We are really looking forward to the next session”. – H Baker, 2013
“I love improv. you are both great instructors. Thanks” – J Breitenfeld, 2013
“(My daughter) really learned a lot from your instruction and we can see her confidence now shines at school. She was a little reserved and shy, but not anymore … she tells it how it is and more! Her sense of humour has also developed into a fun and interesting characteristic we are all enjoying at home”. – Parent, Fall Session, 2012
“(my daughter) certainly came away with more confidence and excitement than other extracurricular activities we have tried. This transferred into her regular school work as well … her sheer enthusiasm every week for Improv speaks volumes about the leadership within the classes”. — Parent of Fall Participant, 2011
I had always avoided trying “improv”, but because of my confidence in Amy, I took a class. The first class show may have been the scariest thing I’ve ever done, but after it was over, I understood the value of it. I have continued to take classes, because I am learning really important things about how I interact with people, and habits I want to change. It’s a challenging, fun way to grow as a person, and as a performer. – R. Smith, Participant, 2012
I’ve found all 5 of the workshops (sessions) I’ve taken to be well worth the time and money. All have been fun and I’ve learned a lot. I didn’t expect to find a group of peers that I liked so much. I also didn’t expect to feel the pull to continue with workshop after workshop. – Participant 2009-2012
I signed up for my first intro classes as a way to face my fear of speaking in public. Though my first few classes gave me more than a few “what the heck do you think you are doing?” moments, Oakville Improv’s teachers got me over my fear and gave me so much more. Increased confidence to tackle new situations, a greater appreciation for genuine team work and cooperation, and fantastic listening skills, all positives I use every day whether participating in difficult meetings at work, negotiating a refund from a reluctant shop owner or spending time with my family. Plus you get to laugh and play while learning.” SL Brodie-Keys – Participant, 2009-2012
Amy and her colleague went above and beyond what we had expected. Our experience with them was
phenomenal. The session was expertly organized to help the students become gradually more comfortable and
more willing to step outside their comfort zone. Every activity had a valuable lesson or presentation skill built
directly into it. For example, students learned about the importance of eye contact and the value of attentive
listening, and were continually challenged to think on the spot. Not only did the students improve their
presentation skills through drama, but they were also won over to the value of improvisation in just an hour and
a half. I would highly recommend Amy McKenzie as an improvisation teacher to both dramatic and non-dramatic
groups. Heather Sheardown, Professor, McMaster University, Department of Chemical Engineering