Workshop Description: The Dollhouse is an epic musical improv form that also blows up the traditional monoscene. Grounded in strong relationships, the entire show is set in and around one location, with every improvised character existing under one crowded roof.
T.J.’s musical workshop uses the Dollhouse form to focus on honest relationships and physicality - while also exploring how to build powerful, theatrical opening numbers that wow the audience.
Inspired by the epic, all-female, NYC musical improv team “The Jezebelles,” the Dollhouse was made popular during their multi-year run at the Magnet Theater in NYC.
As the Founder and Producer of the New York Musical Improv Festival, T.J. Mannix has spent the last decade working with and showcasing innovative musical performers from around the globe.
***NOTE - if you are new to musical improv and worried that your singing voice won't get you cast in WICKED anytime soon, don't worry. Anyone can play in the Dollhouse, and talk-singing is a Hollywood tradition that goes back a century.
Will include live musical accompaniment!
Workshop Length: 3 hours
What Should I Bring? Wear comfy clothes and closed-toe shoes fit for movement. Please bring a notebook and pen/pencil for taking notes. Bring a full water bottle.
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About the Instructor: T.J. Mannix (he/him) is an 25-year veteran of the NYC improv scene. He has toured several times with The Second City/NCL, is an original cast member of the critically-acclaimed BLANK the Musical off-Broadway, and is the Founder/Producer of the 12th annual New York Musical Improv Festival.
T.J. has taught/performed at the UCB, P.I.T., and Magnet Theaters. He is the Head of Acting for Film at NYFA’s Musical Theater BFA program in NYC, and teaches in the NYFA Acting for Film BFA and Producing programs. He also teaches at Circle in the Square Theatre School on Broadway. He admits to spending a very dark year working as a Mouseketeer.
T.J. scored the Law and Order trifecta, playing everything from a minister to a gay kidnapper. He has appeared in over 80 commercials along with roles on Law and Order: SVU, Law and Order, L&O Criminal Intent, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, As the World Turns, All My Children, and One Life to Live. T.J. is a popular coach/director in NYC and is known for his sold-out Commercial Auditioning classes for improvisers.
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