A WEEKEND OF ZEN MEDITATION COMBINED WITH THE SPONTANEOUS IMPROVISATION OF ACTION THEATER
OPTION TO ATTEND SATURDAY ONLY
In this workshop, we’ll be moving between Zen meditation and Action Theater improvisation to discover freedom and spontaneity. Both practices nourish creativity by offering space, acceptance, and a belief that all we need lies within our immediate experience. In a time of frequent fear and catastrophe, we take refuge in playing with what is true – the light and the dark, the beautiful and the ugly. Through the embodiment and presence that Action Theater and Zen offer, we can learn to play, create and share our true selves. We will meditate, sound with bells, move, vocalize, and verbalize in this workshop. We will do exercises in solo, in relationship with a partner, and with the whole group. This workshop is oriented towards beginners in both practices. It gently invites spontaneous playfulness. The words “theater” and “improvisation” are often associated with the pressure of being clever and putting on an act, but in our workshop we’re allowing whatever is present to emerge and express itself through each person. This sense of playfulness and exploration in the room leads to a feeling of acceptance of each person as they are.
Mary Rose and Nathaniel Holder have been teaching Action Theater together since 2018. They are both long time practitioners who studied extensively with Ruth Zaporah, the creator of the practice. Mary has a background in theater and dance, and Nathaniel has studied dance, music, Processwork therapy and Buddhist meditation. Together they create a dynamic teaching team that is constantly evolving.
Doug Kagel has been interested in creativity for many years. He started an improv practice with Kelman Works and then Action Theater. He loves exploring more freedom through these practices. He practices with the Zen Community of Oregon at Heart of Wisdom Zen Temple. He has been practicing at Heart of Wisdom for over 15 years. He has been chant leader, bell ringer and drummer. Zen is his spiritual and ethical compass.
DATES: Friday March 6th to Sunday March 8th 2026 – OR – One day only Saturday March 7th
SCHEDULE: Friday 6-8:30pm, Saturday 10am-1pm & 3-6pm, Sunday 1-3pm & 4-6pm
LOCATION: Heart of Wisdom Zen Temple, 6401 NE 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97211
COST: Sliding scale $260-360 for the full workshop, $150-250 for just Saturday. Please give as much as you can so we can cover all costs and get paid for our time. Please contact us if the low end is still too high for you. Our hope is that enough people can pay the higher end of the scale so that we can accommodate supporting everyone who wants to participate. Let’s make it work! We’re asking for a non-refundable $50 deposit to secure your spot with registration.
PARTICIPANTS: Max of 25. No experience necessary in either practice.
FOOD: Bring your own food or plan to eat out for our snack and meal breaks.
Please contact us with any questions, suggestions or concerns. Details about what to bring will be sent after registration.
