Change Through Play
Dynamic, interactive, positive, and memorable training. We design what we deliver to help for-profit.
We are the only studio in SW PDX specializing in training performers and NON- performers, by using established skills and exercises from the worlds of theater, improvisation, & psychology. For performers, we anchor our work in creating organic, real connections on the stage. For corporate clients, we partner to help train managers, directors, and teams to be better communicators and creative colla
09/18/2024
CLASS BEGINS NEXT WEEK! 🎉
Learn to think like an actor and take your game to the next level. 🎭
Our Tuesday Morning All-Access Improv course is designed for beginner and intermediate with non-traditional schedules who want to play, learn, and develop new skills. Change Through Play's founder David Koff will teach students to approach from an actor's mindset.
This six-class series is perfect for and looking to develop their craft, but non-actors, business professionals, and other curious students are welcome!
Join us to learn the power of non-verbal communication, creating fast agreement, releasing ego and control--all while having the time of your life!
Learn more and sign up at:
https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/allaccess-sept-oct
Register for four, six, or just one class at a time and join us on your schedule. As usual, this class is capped at 10 PARTICIPANTS, don't hesitate to grab your spot!
See you at the studio! 😎
08/26/2024
NEW CLASS ALERT! 🚨🤩
Our brand-new Daytime Improv Class series begins September 24th!
This course, taught by Change Through Play's founder David Koff, is designed for beginner and intermediate with non-traditional schedules who want to play, learn, and develop new skills.
This six-class series is IDEAL for and who are looking to develop their craft, but we also welcome non-actors, business professionals, and other curious students who wish to learn the power of non-verbal communication, creating fast agreement, and releasing ego and control.
Learn more and sign up here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/allaccess-sept-oct
Register for four, six, or just one class at a time and join us on your schedule. As usual, this class is capped at 10 PARTICIPANTS, don't hesitate to grab your spot!
PLUS...
Our other fall classes begin in ONE WEEK! Check out everything we have to offer at: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar
See you at the studio! 😎
08/16/2024
HEY EARLYBIRDS! 🐤
For a limited time, you can get 10% off our NEW cycle of classes!
We're offering classes for students at all experience levels, from beginners to advanced performers. Register before August 22nd and use the code 'EARLYBIRD' to claim your discount. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the playful, transformative world of !
Here's the lineup:
👉 FOUNDATIONS TRACK:
No acting or performing skills are required, just a desire to have fun and trust your instincts!
Our fun & engaging classes are open to anyone aged 15+. They're geared toward anyone new to the practice of improvisation as well as for those who'd like to re-learn or continue to practice the basics of the art form.
The skills that will focused on include using various kinds of listening, thinking on your feet, using non-verbal communication, and collaborating with others.
Learn more here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/foundations-sept-oct
________________________
👉 COMMUNITY PLAY:
Love improv, but don't want to perform? Our Community Play class series was made for you! This class has 1 goal:
Creating a fun, no-pressure environment for people to meet, play, and form a community!
Although actors and performers are welcome to join, this class series DOES NOT train people to become actors, perform on stage, or join an improv team. Just. Weekly. Fun!
Learn more here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/community-sept-oct
________________________
👉 ADVANCED WORKSHOP:
Our most in-depth class! These weekly improv classes are open to advanced-level performers who want to master additional tools, techniques, and approaches to performance-level improvisation.
Learn more here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/advanced-sept-oct
As always, you can purchase and attend our classes as your schedule allows. Join us for all eight weekly sessions or just a few!
If you have any questions, please forward these to [email protected] and we will get back to you ASAP.
See you at the studio! 😉
07/26/2024
Who had fun at our summer showcase for our students? THESE people did. 👍🏼 🎭
Congrats to all of our students for showing up, doing the work, and getting a chance to show the world what they've been learning.
07/25/2024
We are *stoked* to launch our online academy! In this go-at-your-own-pace course, you'll get NINE where you'll learn the same foundational skills of that we teach during our in-person classes. We call it "Improv Foundations". Pay once and get LIFETIME access to this course including all of the written lessons, instructional videos, and homework assignments.
We spent a LOT of time developing and honing this so that it would be fun, informative, and super useful for those who wish to learn the basics of improv. All classes include so our deaf and blind students can also learn the amazing art of unscripted and
Ready? Then jump in!
https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/online-improv-foundations
07/18/2024
Calling All Educators! 📣 📣
Want to bring more creativity and play to your classroom this fall? Ready to learn how to harness the power of improv to energize your students and shake up your curriculum? Looking for some innovative and FUN PD?
Join us this August for a two-day, 4-hour ONLINE WORKSHOP for educators and administrators of all subjects and grade levels!
Our educator workshops provide participants with innovative tools to enhance student engagement, foster creativity, and build a supportive classroom environment. More importantly, what you'll learn during our time together will help you to re-imagine and re-structure your curricula using improvisation to help students demonstrate mastery.
We'll meet virtually on Zoom, so you can join us from ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD! But get ready: you'll have WAY more fun in this virtual meeting than you've ever had before. You've been warned. 😂
Available dates & times:
Tuesday, August 6 & Wednesday, August 7-
9:30am-11:30am Pacific (UTC-7), 12:30pm-2:30pm Eastern (UTC-4), 5:30pm-7:30pm (UTC-0).
Tuesday, August 13 & Wednesday, August 14-
9:30am-11:30am Pacific (UTC-7), 12:30pm-2:30pm Eastern (UTC-4), 5:30pm-7:30pm (UTC-0)
SPACE IS LIMITED so sign up today:
https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/2024aug-educator-workshop
07/09/2024
HEY PORTLAND! 📣
Ready for some summer improv fun? Our Sunday Funday show is BACK for July! 🎉
Come support our students - both new and seasoned improvisers - as well as other prominent Portland performers in a night of improvised hilarity. Our show will feature demos and sets from our current classes and will showcase the talents of some very special improv all-stars!
👇 Get your tickets here! 👇
https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/sunday-funday-july
In this 5min video, David explains how and WHY to be stay present and focusing when you are improvising or just having a conversation.
This video is designed for all levels of improvisers as well as for business professionals who simply seek to get better at their skills.
The vast majority of us are unable to stay in the present moment. Our culture has trained us to be distracted, over-stimulated, and not 100% available. As a result, our conversations and artwork has become less focused and more surface. Good communication is a valuable as much as it is an technique. Therefore, it's important for all of us to learn ANY technique we can to help ground us in the present moment. Give our two methods a try (there are many more, of course!) and see how much it can elevate your conversations, relationships, and - of course! - your improvising.
For more videos, please subscribe to our channel.
For more info about classes & workshops, visit our website:
https://ChangeThroughPlay.com
This 4.25min is geared for intermediate or advanced although beginners can also learn a thing or too! Most are afraid to go into emotional vulnerability because (1) they don't know what it is and (2) they fear anything that sounds emotionally risky. In truth, all this skill reall requires is labelling what your character - and other characters! - are feeling in that moment of your scene. Check it out. Give it a try and see how much it can elevate your
Join me for this 4min that's geared for intermediate or advanced although beginners might also learn a thing or too! I've found that, when , it's important to learn WHEN to walk on to enter a . It's not something that we do ramdomly: there's a skill and awareness there that can be devloped. I actually think it's an essential skill. And — since no one ever took the time to explain the methods or theories behind it to me — I wanted to figure them out for myself and then share them with you. Enjoy this tip on
05/22/2024
We're so chuffed to have helped Matt to develop & grow his performance, public speaking and stand-up comedy skills! 😁
There are so many benefits to improv classes; learn more about what happens in class here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/individuals
Read our other reviews here: https://bit.ly/CTP-Reviews
This 3.5min is geared for intermediate or advanced although beginners can also learn a thing or too! I want to explain how improvisers can learn when to end an scene. Developing THIS skills and awareness can up your in class as well as on stage. Take your unscripted to a new level by learning and mastering this skill!
05/22/2024
Hi Improv Friends, it's time for our May Improv Outing!
I've been hearing about The Harold ever since I began studying improv, but I've never actually seen one performed. It's an improv format made famous by Second City, UCB, etc, and I feel it's time I fill in this missing part of my education.
So please join me May 26 at 7pm at Kickstand Comedy for Harold Night. (I've also never been to Kickstand, so it's a twofer!) And it's only $8.
Read more and get yer tickets here: https://portland.boldtypetickets.com/events/147079173/harold-night
If we're feeling frisky, we'll grab some drinks afterward and debrief what we saw.
Looking forward to seeing you then!
Fritz
05/09/2024
Hey, Portland, Oregon!!!
If you've ever wanted to learn the fundamentals of improvisation, now's the time. Our classes are designed so that ANYONE from ANY walk or life or career can join us, have a blast, and learn a lot about the tools of collaboration, communication, teamwork, and leadership.
Join Mary Pat McCoy this Saturday, the day before Mother's Day for two hours of joyous playtime. And hey: bring your Mom!!
Join us for a (nearly) free improv class in Portland! — Change Through Play Improv & Training Studio Join the teachers of Change Through Play — Mary Pat McCoy & David Koff — for one of our fun, open house workshops. During our two hours together, we'll introduce you to you the basics of improv, answer all of your questions, and play as a group. Expect tons of laughter as we improvise in class.
05/07/2024
NEW IMPROV CLASSES INCOMING! 🎉
Our new cycle of classes begins the week of May 20th. For a limited time, you can get 10% off using the code 'EARLYBIRD'.
Our improv classes cater to every skill level, and help students develop their confidence, creativity, and communication skills. And most importantly, they're an absolute blast!
Here's the lineup:
👉 FOUNDATIONS TRACK:
No acting or performing skills are required, just a desire to have fun and trust your instincts!
Our fun & engaging classes are open to anyone aged 15+. They're geared toward anyone new to the practice of improvisation as well as for those who'd like to re-learn or continue to practice the basics of the art form.
The skills that will focused on include using various kinds of listening, thinking on your feet, using non-verbal communication, and collaborating with others.
Learn more here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/foundations-may-july
________________________
👉 COMMUNITY PLAY:
Love improv, but don't want to perform? Our Community Play class series was made for you! This class has 1 goal:
Creating a fun, no-pressure environment for people to meet, play, and form a community!
Although actors and performers are welcome to join, this class series DOES NOT train people to become actors, perform on stage, or join an improv team. Just. Weekly. Fun!
Learn more here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/community-may-july
________________________
👉 ADVANCED WORKSHOP:
Our most in-depth class! These weekly improv classes are open to advanced-level performers who want to master additional tools, techniques, and approaches to performance-level improvisation.
Learn more here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/advanced-may-july
As always, you can purchase and attend our classes as your schedule allows. Scholarships and discounts are available for LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and starving artist applicants. 🌈
If you have any questions, please forward these to [email protected] and we will get back to you ASAP.
See you at the studio! 😉
05/02/2024
Jean has been joining us in class since the beginning of 2023 and loving every minute! 😉 Read more of our reviews here: https://bit.ly/CTP-Reviews
If you're unsure of joining or what to expect, try out a single class and see how you enjoy it. You can also learn more about what happens in class here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/individuals
Read our other reviews here: https://bit.ly/CTP-Reviews
04/25/2024
More aware? ✅
Present? ✅
Confident? ✅
Just a few of the wonderful qualities our students are developing in class.
Learn more here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/individuals
Read our other reviews here: https://bit.ly/CTP-Reviews
04/18/2024
We've had the pleasure of teaching Sam for nearly a year now. 😊 Thank you for the review, friend!
Join us in stretching your mind, having fun and beyond! 🚀
Learn more about our classes here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/individuals
Read our other reviews here: https://bit.ly/CTP-Reviews
04/18/2024
Our popular $10 Open House is BACK! 🤩
Enhance your communication, listening, and public speaking skills while having SO MUCH FUN! Join us for a dynamic and engaging demo class that will boost your creativity and leave you wanting more - guaranteed.
📅 Date: Saturday, May 11th
⏰ Time: 11:00 - 13:00
📍 Location: Change Through Play Studios, 4905 Southwest Scholls Ferry Road Portland, OR, 97225
⭐️ What are the benefits of improv?
Improv isn't just about making people laugh; it's a transformative experience that boosts confidence, enhances communication skills, and fosters a sense of camaraderie.
If you've never tried a class with us before, here's your chance to experience the art form that we are SO passionate about!
Spots are capped at 10 participants, so don't hesitate to grab yours here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/may2024-open-house
04/11/2024
Heartfelt reviews like these make us love doing what we do EVEN MORE! 🫶
Above and beyond the other benefits, improv can help you to connect better with others through both verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
More about that here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/individuals
Read our other reviews here: https://bit.ly/CTP-Reviews
04/04/2024
PORTLAND COMMUNITY! 🗣
Sunday Funday is BACK this May for another round of hysterical improvisational performances. 🤩
For just $10, come and support our students - both new and seasoned improvisers - as well as other notable Portland performers as they show you all kinds of talents, skills, and abilities. Our show will feature demos and sets from all three levels of our classes as well as other notable Portland improvisers.
🏷Get your tickets here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/sunday-funday-may
02/29/2024
! If you or someone you know would like to experience the joys of , then please have a look at our newest classes. They begin the week of March 18th. Anyone who registers prior to the 10th can save 10% off the cost.
And remember: aren't just for actors or performers! They're for ANYONE who wants to learn new ways to play, communicate, or collaborate.
https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/563378/emails/114506432530875570
02/29/2024
HEY EARLYBIRDS! 🐤
Our new cycle of classes will begin the week of March 18th. Get 10% OFF for a limited time using the code 'EARLYBIRD'.
Our improv classes are developed for all skill levels and are grounded in refining important skills such as interpersonal communication, body language, eye contact and so, SO much more. Above all, they are just plain FUN! 😎
Here's the lineup:
👉 FOUNDATIONS TRACK:
No acting or performing skills are required, just a desire to have fun and trust your instincts!
Our fun & engaging classes are open to anyone aged 15+. They're geared toward anyone new to the practice of improvisation as well as for those who'd like to re-learn or continue to practice the basics of the art form.
The skills that will focused on include using various kinds of listening, thinking on your feet, using non-verbal communication, and collaborating with others.
Learn more here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/foundations-mar-apr
________________________
👉 COMMUNITY PLAY:
Love improv, but don't want to perform? Our new Community Play class series was made for you! This class has 1 goal:
Creating a fun, no-pressure environment for people to meet, play, and form a community!
Although actors and performers are welcome to join, this class series DOES NOT train people to become actors, perform on stage, or join an improv team. Just. Weekly. Fun!
Learn more here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/community-mar-apr
________________________
👉 ADVANCED WORKSHOP:
Our most in-depth class! These weekly improv classes are open to advanced-level performers who want to master additional tools, techniques, and approaches to performance-level improvisation.
Learn more here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/advanced-march-april
As always, purchase and join in on the classes as your schedule allows. Scholarships and discounts are available for LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and starving artist applicants. 🌈
If you have any questions, please forward these to [email protected] and we will get back to you ASAP.
See you at the studio! 😉
02/15/2024
Friends,
We are ECSTATIC to announce that Change Through Play will be hosting its second-ever improv showcase in the next few weeks! 🤩
Come and support our students - both new and seasoned improvisers - as well as other notable Portland performers as they show you all kinds of talents, skills, and abilities.
Our show will feature demos and sets from all three levels of our classes:
Our Foundations class will showcase how some of the basics of improvisation work.
Our Community Play class will show off their fantabulous character and scene work.
Our Advanced Lab class will perform an entire 18-minute, fully improvised set of scenes based on your suggestions.
Not enough for $10? Well, then, you're in luck! Joining us will be other notable Portland improvisers.
3hree, a trio with Eric & Aden Nepom along with David Koff.
A trio with Jed Arkley, Beau Brousseau, and Brad Fortier.
🏷Get your tickets here: https://www.changethroughplay.com/calendar/sunday-funday-feb
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.
Videos (show all)
Category
Contact the establishment
Telephone
Website
Address
4905 SW Scholls Ferry Road
Portland, OR
97225
Opening Hours
| Monday | 11am - 9:30pm |
| Tuesday | 11am - 9:30pm |
| Wednesday | 10am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 11am - 9:30pm |
| Friday | 10am - 5pm |
Cascade Festival of African Films
705 N Killingsworth Street
Portland, 97217
www.africanfilmfestival.org
The Academy Theater
7818 SE Stark St
Portland, 97215
Beautifully restored movie theater featuring current, classic and indie films, beer & wine, Flying Pie pizza, Miyamoto sushi and $9/$6.50 tickets.
Cinema Project
1302 SE Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard
Portland, 97217
A collectively run non-profit organization founded in Portland, Oregon, in 2003, Cinema Project works to promote public awareness of avant-garde cinema from the past and present.
Living Room Theaters
341 SW 10th Avenue
Portland, 97205
The fusion of acclaimed independent films, casual cuisine and a full bar.
St. Johns Cinema
8704 N Lombard Street
Portland, 97203
St. Johns Twin Cinemas is an independent, locally owned two-screen cinema in St. Johns, Portland. We proudly serve local craft beer and our own handmade pizza for guests to enjoy w...
CineMagic Theater, Portland
2021 SE Hawthorne Boulevard
Portland, 97214
Ticket prices: $8 adults $6 Students / Military $6 Seniors / Children $6 Matinee (Shows starting befo
Roseway Theater
7229 NE Sandy Boulevard
Portland, 97213
A restored 1924 movie theater featuring superior digital picture and sound quality.