The Engineering of the Scene
With international guest, Matías Avaca. Discover tools to analyse and influence scene structure
What it's about
Experience the meeting point of art and science in this innovative improv workshop. By applying principles of engineering, such as pattern recognition, structure, and systems thinking, participants will discover new ways to create scenes that are precise, dynamic, and sustainable. With a background as an improviser, director, and instructor, alongside a Master’s in Systems Engineering and over 15 years in the IT industry, Matías brings a unique perspective to the craft. This workshop is ideal for improvisers seeking fresh tools to refine their storytelling and gain a new level of control and creative freedom. Improvisers are often taught to “just play”, yet many scenes stumble because the underlying structure is unclear. This workshop provides a framework for recognising the elements that give scenes strength, platforms, tilts, patterns, and escalations, and how to work with them deliberately. Through exercises and reflective discussion, we’ll experiment with balancing intuition and design, helping participants refine their ability to build sustainable and compelling scenes without losing joy or spontaneity. ABOUT YOUR GUEST TEACHER Matías Avaca, an Argentinian improviser based in New Zealand since 2016, is the co-founder of Mabel Impro and the Auckland Improv Festival. His style emphasises the universality of improv, transcending linguistic and cultural boundaries. Matías is also a driving force behind Laenye Productions, a performing arts production company based in Auckland, dedicated to promoting Spanish-speaking artists and fostering appreciation for Spanish and Latin American culture, art, and languages. Matías' influence extends globally, coaching theatre ensembles and shaping improv theatre formats across over 15 countries, further solidifying his impact on the international Improv community. PREVIOUSLY PRESENTED • 2023 Festival VA de Impro (Valladolid, Spain) • 2025 Now Improv Festival (Beijing, China) • Taught privately in Auckland (New Zealand) PREREQUISITE You must have completed the Improv: Fun and Games course, OR have completed a multi-week level 1 course with a reputable improv company. If you’ve learnt improv somewhere else, please email lol@blahblahblahimprov.com to confirm experience suitability before booking. WHEN AND WHERE 169 Griffith St, Coolangatta, Qld from 9am until 12pm on Sunday, 19 July 2026. Matías is teaching another workshop at 1pm called Don’t Talk Unless You Can Improve the Silence.
Cancellation policy
Cancellations & changes Packages for improv jams: You will get a full refund of your package credit if you cancel or change your booking up to 12 hours before the improv session starts. One-off workshop, casual jams, or masterclass: You will get a refund (less the cost of payment gateway, website transaction, and banking fees) if you cancel up to seven days before the session. Multiple-week courses: You will get a refund (less the cost of payment gateway, website transaction, and banking fees) if you cancel up to two weeks before the course commences. For cancellations of workshops and courses that do not fall within the above timelines, you will receive credit to go towards the next class or workshop. This does not apply to cancellations of jams.
Contact details
0412702802
lol@blahblahblahimprov.com
169 Griffith Street, Coolangatta QLD, Australia