By: John Rokosz

Actor, writer, and producer Jean Zarzour was the energetic speaker for a fun evening at Cioppino’s on Sunday, April 17. Besides having an extensive resume in film, TV and print, Jean serves as an instructor for theatrical improv and voice acting. Her customized sketch and improv comedy group, Lipschtick, provides informative seminars that are geared towards improving communication and teamwork among actors and non-actors alike. In addition, Find Your Voice! is Jean’s voice over training institute that teaches students of all ages to use their voice with more control and confidence.

For the captive audience on Sunday evening, Jean’s expertise translated into an entertaining yet educational seminar on improvisation for actors, and confident pitching for producers. With four exercises that encouraged crowd participation, Jean demonstrated the importance of active listening when pitching and improvising, and the need to step out of one’s comfort zone in order to make an impression. The group dynamic quickly energized with Jean’s supportive encouragement, as several members of the crowd “came out of their shells” to stand in front of the audience and pitch improvised film ideas; debate with each other about an improvised topic, then completely switching viewpoints in an instant; and use physical action to mime creative scenes and images. It was an exciting evening that promoted teamwork and interaction with a great group of actors, producers, writers, and PaFIA corporate members—a strong and growing network that PaFIA is proud to foster at each of these events.

Jean’s bio and portfolio are available on IMDb, with more information on her website at www.jeanzarzour.com. Please also visit www.lipschtick.com and www.findyourvoice-voiceactinginstitute.blogspot.com for more opportunities to learn about improvisation and voice acting. A big thank you to Jean, and to Cioppino’s for hosting another successful PaFIA event!

To see photos from this great event, click here!