APPLIED IMPROV
WORKSHOPS & CONSULTING
What if you could use laughter and play to inspire people, teams and leaders?
You can! That’s the basic concept of Applied improvisation – you take the lessons we learn from improvisational comedy and apply them into our daily lives. These skills go way beyond the stage, cultivating engagement, building confidence, increasing teamwork and heightening awareness in all that we do.
For over two decades, I have been working with businesses, groups and teams to create customized Applied Improv workshops. As a CSz Worldwide Executive Level certified trainer and independent practitioner, I help clients solve problems faster, build better interpersonal skills, communicate more effectively, and find joy in working together as a team.
Over the years, I’ve worked not only with businesses and in corporate settings, but I’ve also developed a variety of improv-based programs, such as ones for dementia caregivers, theological exploration, and blind and vision impaired youth. Anywhere that you find a group of people that wish to connect and work together to achieve a common goal, Applied Improvisation is a remarkable tool.
Customized to fit your group's needs
Every workshop I facilitate is custom tailored to the goals of your organization. We’ll talk in advance to explore your team’s specific goals and objectives. From there, I’ll create an approach using a combination of interactive improv activities for your team that brings laughter and learning in a positive and supportive environment. The goal is to always lead the team to discovery through conversation and observations about each activity.
How Applied Improvisation works
Applied Improv is a proven business strategy that many organizations have made a key element in cultivating more effective work environments. It’s way more than just “team building”, though that certainly is a benefit. Applied Improv focuses on improving the skills that are crucial for individuals and leaders to excel. That’s not just my opinion – the business world has been taking note for years, as seen in these articles from Forbes, Fast Company, Harvard Business Review and the Washington Post.
"In the long history of humankind (and animal kind, too) those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed."
- Charles Darwin
What are people saying about Applied Improv with Dave Gau?
“Dave was amazing! Professional, Funny, and Engaging! This was a great team building exercise! Thank you!” – Capital One
“This was a great experience for our firm. We are small, but growing. Establishing this type of listening and communication skills as we continue to form our culture is extremely important. Dave did a great job of engaging the team, showing support for oddball ideas, and managing a group with wide ranging personalities.” – Curtis & Co
“David was well organized, engaging and on target for my staff’s needs. He took into account the information I shared prior for the session and tailored the training accordingly. I had so much fun with my staff. More professional development should be of this nature. After 3 years of screens, it was refreshing to come together to learn, play, and grow. Highly recommend!” – SOAR365
“Dave was awesome! He really connected us to the content and to our jobs. He did a great job of creating a safe place for us to play and learn at the same time. The course was fun and engaging. I also appreciate Dave keying into and allowing the application conversations that stemmed from the activities.” – Hourigan Group
Send a message and let's talk about how Applied Improv can help YOUR group!