About Viola Spolin

 

Born in 1906, in Chicago, Illinois, Viola Spolin trained at Neva Boyd's Group Work School, where she was influenced by its innovative teachings; using games, storytelling, folk dance and dramatics as tools for stimulating creative expression. She won many awards for her contribution to professional education, community and children's theatre.

 

Spolin developed a system of training focused on emotional and physical honesty. Her fundamental ideal is to 'show' not 'tell'. She believed this was the way to bring absolute truth to the stage.

 

Spolin saw audiences as an intrinsic part of the theatrical experience, rather than a separate entity. The relationship between the actor, other actors and audience is symbiotic. Neither should backstage, or front of house staff be left out of that equation.

 

These are the beliefs that drive Show Don't Tell. We want to be a part of theatre that includes and is open to all.

Viola Spolin died in 1994. Her teachings survive through her many pupils and her son, Paul Sills (founding director of Chicago's Second City and of Story Theatre) at the Wisconsin Theatre Games Centre, who have kindly given us their blessing and encouragement