Gaining Perspective

Bringing self-awareness of behavior and communication to schools, the workplace, families and individuals through the techniques, practices and principles of Improvisation. When given a space to let go and be silly, kids and adults learn to move through blocks in communication and balance the pressures they face. By fostering trust, focus, and confidence, the Gaining Perspective team positively transforms not only the individual, but also the group dynamic. In 2006, Kerstin Caldwell was asked to come to teach improvisation for two weeks at William Smith High School, formerly an alternative high school, in Aurora, CO. Kerstin wanted to show the so-called “bad” kids how to use their persuasive skills in more positive ways. She worked to harness their playful nature using exercises and games to freeing students from their self-destructive patterns to practice positive communication and choices in a safe and supportive space. Those two weeks at William Smith turned into a month. Then a semester. Then a year… In the end, Kerstin became an Artist In Residency at William Smith where her approach to teaching improvisation evolved to a complete and successful curriculum on self-awareness. Kerstin created the Gaining Perspective team of highly trained Improvisational Actors and Therapists from the mental health field. Their mission—healing beliefs, behaviors and communication among youth and adults in a fun, supportive, non-judgmental environment.