Martin Zeller
Primary Discipline: Theatre
Areas of Specialty: Improvisation, Drama, Personal narrative
Additional Disciplines/Specialties: Literary Arts, Creative writing towards performance
Based in: Spokane
Phone: 509-456-0676
Email: equilibriumone@comcast.net
Biography: Martin Zeller came to theatre improvisation after twenty-five years as a trial lawyer, some experience with modern dance and movement and an interest in mental health. In 1984, during a lawyers’ conference, he watched a late night improv theatre performance and hasn’t stopped doing improvisational theatre since. In addition to his own performance career, Zeller has used improv work in Violence Awareness programs and with a wide range of therapeutic, academic, public and corporate populations. Zeller has taught in the schools since 1986 and through the Washington State Arts Commission since 2001.
When asked about his approach as a Teaching Artist, Mr. Zeller wrote this: “Improvisation is the art of the possible. One enters the stage with nothing and therefore everything is possible. It is playful, risky, personal and accessible. Improvisation involves collaborative and creative problem solving, active listening and observing, and saying, “Yes,” to other people’s offers. Students learn the fundamentals of acting and performance. They also develop an increased level of awareness, spontaneity and collaboration. Improvisation reveals the truth about human relations in all its nuances in a funny, yet intelligent way that strikes at the heart of our common experiences. My goal is to offer students an opportunity to explore this creative discipline without fear of "failure". I bring a professional and experiential understanding to the developmental transitions of youth and an acceptance of each student’s personal history. I have a sense of humor and am excited about teaching. I strive to take advantage of the learning moments for each student. Students love the play and the surprises. Improvisation is a formidable creative pathway in which they learn and succeed.”
Suitable for Grades: K-12
Preferred Grades: 9-12
Curriculum Integration Possibilities: Literacy, Reading, Writing, History, Social Studies
Additional Interests/Experience:
- Leading Professional Development workshops for K-12 Teachers
- Working with at risk students
- Working with students with special needs / disabilities
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