Along with her work as a professional actor, Ms. Ranek uses theatre to reach young people. She spent 15 years as the Artistic Director of The American Variety Theatre Company, working with inner- city youth. While there she wrote, produced and directed numerous plays for children. Her work as a playwright for children speaks colloquially to the environment, humor, and sense of community in the inner city. These plays have included an adaptation of Lewis Carroll's "Alice In Wonderland" - "GLADYS IN WONDERLAND", a modern version of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" - "SCROOGE … YO HUMBUG", and modern spins on old tales in "TALES FROM DA HOOD". Ms. Ranek's newest piece for children, performed at the Minnesota Kids FRINGE Festival, is "ONCE UPON A TRIAL"

Currently Ms. Ranek is the Artistic Director of a touring improv troupe. This group of young people write and perform original performances addressing such issues as drug, alcohol, and tobacco use, violence prevention, cultural diversity, gang violence, sexual health / awareness, and provides positive life affirming decision making tools for their audiences. This troupe has toured extensively since 1987, reaching thousands of young people with their message.

She also works both independently and with local theatres in schools and community settings as an Artist In Residence. There, she uses theatre as an educational tool for students of all ages, abilities, and disabilities.

She has worked with acclaimed champion of fairy tales and children's literature Jack Zipes, bringing literacy to the schools through story telling as part of The Children's Theatre Company's Neighborhood Bridges program. Ms. Ranek has studied with Washington D.C.'s Living Stage Theatre Company, The Arts and The Environment program at Wyoming's Teton Science School, NYU's Creative Arts Team, and co wrote and directed "DAS BRACLET" in Moscow, Russia, as part of the Moscow Scientific and Technological Center for youth.

Ms. Ranek uses the philosophy of improv, which is based on creativity, trust, and risk taking, to be the tool of enlightening participants, giving them a new way to think, problem solve, and play. She has not only brought this philosophy to children but adults as well, conducting numerous corporate workshops, and teaching with internationally acclaimed Guthrie Theatre Company.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
JANELLE RANEK
612-518-8868
e-mail Janelle.r@att.net

While in the area, along with performing her one woman show "SCRAWL", Ms. Ranek can offer classes and workshops. Class times and the actual logistical structure are flexible. The following is a description of classes / workshops offered. In the past "Improv For Adults" and "Improv For High School Students" has culminated in an end reception / performance for family and friends.

"Improv for Adults was great. I never had such a good time or knew I was capable of doing half of what I did. Oh yea, I also met my wife there."
Roger Esposito

Whether you are an actor, a closet comedian, or just want to be more comfortable in social settings, this class if for you. Through improvisational games and structures (as seen on TV's "Who's Line Is It Anyway), participants learn the art of comedy improvisation, how to think quickly on your feet, and overcome shyness. This class is a great way to free and discover your creative self, have fun, and gain confidence.

SUGGESTED SESSION:

Two-week session, three evenings a week,
Mon. Tues. Wed. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $90.00
Minimum 10 students Maximum 20 students

"I learned that improv is much more than making things up on the spot and trying to be funny. I learned to trust and challenge myself."
Lisa Myers - 17

"Learning improv and performing comedy was tons of fun."
Ryan Moore - 14

"It is scary to get over your fears and perform in front of people, but Janelle made us feel so comfortable. I am glad I had the opportunity to work with her, she taught me so much."
Ashley Anderson - 16

A fantastic class for the aspiring young comedian or actor. This class for youth ages 12 - 18 truly brings out the natural talents of the students. Participants will learn the art of comedy improv, create characters, how to work with a group, how to think fast, and have a heck of a good time.

SUGGESTED SESSION:

Two-week session three afternoons per week
Mon., Tues., Wed., 4:00 p.m. - 5:30
Cost: $90.00
Ages 13 - 18
Minimum 10 students - maximum 20 students

"Dealing with the public in sales and marketing you never know what to expect. I definitely felt my ability to think on my feet increased as a result of this workshop." Jill Kemp, Creative Internet Solutions

Have you ever been faced with having to give a presentation at work and found yourself imitating a popcicle …. frozen? Does the notion of speaking in front of a group of people give you hives and cause you to hyperventilate? When you need to come up with new fresh ideas do you find yourself stuck, empty, and burnt out?
Improv for professionals uses the art of improvisation to build confidence in creative abilities, develop tools to think quickly and problem solve on your feet, refresh communication skills, discover new brainstorming techniques, and learn to trust one's own ideas and abilities. Participants will have the opportunity to practice these new skills in a safe, non-threatening, fun, environment and take them directly into the workplace.

ONE-DAY WORKSHOP:

10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Saturday is ideal)
Cost: $75:00
Minimum 10 participants Maximum 20 participants