Pottering about

Enter the magical world of Harry Potter with an online improv course

If you grew up waiting for an owl to drop off a wax-sealed letter of acceptance from the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, then here’s an idea that might charm you. Delhi-based performing arts company Kaivalya Plays is hosting a four-week long improv course, which, led by New York-based performer and teacher Chris Griswold, will dive into the world of JK Rowling’s beloved Harry Potter fantasy series. Artistic director Varoon P Anand, who’s an improv trainer and performer, shares that the collaboration was prompted by cross-generational interest in Harry Potter. They reached out to Griswold  who, Anand adds, understands the specifics of improv, which is based on world-building. “I had taught a Harry Potter class in Brooklyn, NYC, so it was a natural fit,” Griswold informs us.

Varoon P Anand (second from left) at a pre-lockdown improv session

The course, which will be spread over eight sessions, is currently open to participants above the age of 12 who have some basic experience in improv and theatre. One of the key takeaways of the workshop, Anand says, will be world-building. “The idea that you can get into a Zoom room with other Potterheads and practise spells, visit the Leaky Cauldron or do other things you read about in the books is so exciting. You’ll be assigned movies, build costumes, play with objects, and immerse yourself in the world so that you’re ready for a performance,” he elaborates. Griswold also hopes to employ a variety of Harry Potter-themed exercises to create an improvised live adventure: “Participants will learn to notice when something is funny and make it funnier.” 

Chris Griswold

Anand adds that students will develop skills including better listening and reacting abilities, cooperation and quick thinking. But most importantly, it’ll be a ticket to Hogwarts and a world of magic — and we could all do with some of that right now.

On June 12 onwards 
Log on to insider.in 
Cost Rs 6,000

Magic on stage

City-based thespian Raell Padamsee’s Ace Productions has a speech and drama course for kids, based on Sorcerer’s Stone.

On Batches on June 7 and June 12 
Call 9320130013 
Cost Rs 4,800

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