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S2E5: 

“Take the mask off”: Improv in Neurodivergent and LGBT spaces with Alena Dingeldein and Brian Jones

Host: Mike Garvin

Guests: Alena Dingeldein and Brian Jones

This episode is part of a series of episodes interviewing leaders of identity-affirming improv workshops as a part of an Unscripted initiative called Changing the Face of Improv Leadership, funded in part by the Tennessee Arts Commission.

In this episode, Mike Garvin interviews Alena about their experience as a student of improv as well as their experience leading a workshop through Mindful Nashville centered around affirming neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ identities through improv. Alena credits improv with building their confidence as well as their listening skills and problem solving abilities. After, Brian Jones discusses his experience with mentoring Alena on creating the workshop, specifically noting the confidence and pragmatism with which Alena facilitated the workshop.

About the Guests:

Alena Dingeldein is an improviser and performer local to the Nashville area who has taken classes and performed through organizations like Third Coast Comedy Club and Backlight Productions. 

Brian Michael Jones (SAG-AFTRA) has been an actor and performer for most of his life.  He’s performed on TV, in films, on stage both in touring and regional productions.  He’s a professional Henson puppeteer, Motion Capture performer, and has provided voice over, for many shows and even sometimes he’s even a mime for commercials and TV episodes. But through it all he’s always been an improviser.  

Improvised Ad by Owen Sullivan.

Executive Producers: Christina Ashworth + Emma Supica

Editing: Cammie York

Mixing: Dave Strumfeld

Graphic Design: Cammie York

A project of Unscripted, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Nashville, TN. We heal, empower, and connect our community through equitable and accessible improv programs.

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