How improv training can create compassionate behavior. | Rich Hollman | TEDxLincolnSquare

Millions of years of evolution have fine-tuned our autonomic nervous system to detect risk and avoid it. In this talk about the art of improvisation, Hollman shares his personal experience of how saying yes and following the fear can create a much more compassionate world.
Rich is an actor, improviser, teacher, writer, musician and activist living in New York City. He earned his BA in psychology from the University of Pennsylvania in 1999 and his MFA in acting from New School University in 2004. As an actor, Rich has performed regionally and in many Off-Broadway venues including The Cherry Lane Theater, The Lucille Lortel, Playwrights Horizons, La Mama Etc., and Playhouse on Park in West Hartford, CT. He's also appeared in tv roles including; Law and Order, Guiding Light, All My Children and As The World Turns. Additionally, his film work has been seen in the New York Television Festival where he also won a Best Writing award for the original pilot, 'Actualized'. Rich teaches acting and improv at the New School, The People's Improv Theater (The PIT), where he is currently on the faculty, the Buckley School and The Pelham Film Institute.he is the creator of Care Packages for the Homeless, a charity bringing essentials to NYC's homeless.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx

[@givealittlenow]

I can vouch personally for Rich's compassion! I was beyond nervous about doing my talk and he was incredibly generous with suggestions and encouragement!

[@dmkashen]

Wow. This is a really powerful talk, with implications for how we live our everyday lives. Just living by the principles of 'yes, and' as well as 'leaning into the fear' will have a profoundly positive impact on anyone brave enough to attempt it. Rich is also a talented, funny storyteller and a compassionate human being.

[@orlowf]

Very well done Rich! I am proud and honored to send my son to Buckley knowing there are special people like you teaching the importance and appreciation for theatre education

[@careygoldenberg2731]

we belong when we agree...following your fear risks vulnerability and releases compassion and helps bring about transformation, the real key to successful improv and life itself.

[@lorihammel2241]

Fantastic!!! Well done Rich!