Breakthrough Play

Zoomers to Boomers Online Intergenerational Improvisation Theater Class
2024-10-22 18:00 - 20:00, 2024-10-15 18:00 - 20:00, 2024-10-08 18:00 - 20:00, 2024-10-01 18:00 - 20:00, 2024-09-24 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
Date and time

Tuesday, September 17 · 8 – 10pm CDT

Location

Online

Refund Policy

No Refunds

About this event

Notes:

$50 off Early Bird Rate good through Sept 10th.
8-week class, Tuesdays 9/17 – 11/12, 6:00-8:00 pm PST (No Class Tues Nov 5th)
If you are in need of financial aid or a family discount please email yael@zoomerstoboomersimprov.com for more info.

Are you tired of “Age Silos?
Life doesn’t have to be that way! Online Intergenerational Improvisation can help us bridge the gap!
Let’s break down those age barriers!
Online Intergenerational Improvisation Theater games are a great way to connect across age groups!
Feeling isolated at home?
Join us in our online improv classes and connect virtually with like-minded, young-at-heart people of all ages around the world, to play together while also addressing social issues of common concern!

Meet Your Instructors

Yael Schy (Boomer)
Yael Schy is a dynamic theater and dance instructor, improviser, storyteller, singer/songwriter, and stand-up comedian known for her creative approach that makes learning FUN! Yael has been performing and teaching theater and dance for all age groups for almost 50 years, including being a pioneer in teaching INTERGENERATIONAL IMPROVISATION for more than a decade. She is the director of All That Jazz, a San Francisco Bay Area musical improv troupe, and a founding member of the Applied Improvisation Network.
Gary Ware (Millennial)
Gary Ware, the Founder of Breakthrough Play, is a sought-after Corporate Facilitator and Keynote Speaker with nearly a decade of experience as a performer in improv theatre. He assists teams with unlocking creativity and confidence, and sparks collaboration with experiential methods proven to drive peak performance. As a facilitator, Gary has worked with people of all ages. His experience has ranged from improv workshops assisting elementary school students with emotional intelligence, to Laughter Yoga at assisted living facilities.

Northeast HR Association Annual Conference Keynote
2024-10-15 09:30 - 2024-10-17 14:00 | Newport Harbor Island Resort, 1 Goat Island, Newport, Rhode Island, 02840, United States
I’m excited to announce that I’ll be delivering a keynote at the Northeast HR Association Annual Conference in Newport, RI on October 15th. NEHRA’s Annual Conference recognizes the importance of not just delivering relevant and timely content, but also providing opportunities for relaxation, restoration, and connection throughout the entire event. Our goal is for you to return to the ‘office’ with the tools and knowledge you need, coupled with a renewed outlook and fresh perspective on your work.

See more information about my keynote below!

Maximize Workplace Performance Through The Power of Play

Gary’s dynamic session will inject a spirit of joy and connectivity, exploring the critical role of play in creating a thriving workplace culture. His engaging style and practical insights have empowered countless organizations to foster creativity, collaboration, and exuberance within their teams.
As the founder of Breakthrough Play, Gary has empowered countless organizations to foster creativity, collaboration, and joy within their teams. His engaging style and practical insights promise to inspire and motivate us all.
PLUS (AND YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS THIS!): Immediately following Gary’s keynote, join us for a special welcome reception and Playshop! Enjoy refreshments, connect with fellow attendees, and experience firsthand how creative solutions can reinvigorate and inspire your employees, your workplace and your life.

For more information, click here!

Wellbeing Series Webinar for the Pennsylvania State Council of SHRM
2024-10-09 12:00 - 13:00
Summary
In today’s stressful work environment, finding joy and maintaining well-being can feel out of reach. Gary Ware, founder of Breakthrough Play and author of Playful Rebellion, offers a solution. In a interactive session, Gary will transform your approach to well-being in a Virtual Webinar for the Pennsylvania State Council of SHRM. He will show you how to use play to boost creativity, reduce stress, and build workplace connections. You’ll also learn how to create healing rituals and a personalized “playful map” to integrate into your daily life. These tools will help reignite your playful spirit and improve overall well-being.
Learning Objectives

Understand the Role of Play in Well-being: First, discover how play can improve emotional and mental health. Then, find ways to include it in your daily routine for workplace success.
Develop Healing Rituals for Daily Practice: Learn how to create rituals that use play as a tool for healing and stress relief.
Create a Playful Map for Lasting Joy: Finally, get practical strategies to design a “playful map” to navigate challenges, face fears, and rediscover joy.

Speaker Bio
Gary Ware, founder of Breakthrough Play and author of Playful Rebellion, is a facilitator and speaker with over 20 years of experience. He works with top companies like SAP and Intuit, using improv and play to spark creativity and teamwork. Outside work, Gary enjoys magic and family adventures. Recently, he was recognized as one of the Top 25 Emerging Culture Creators by Culture Amp.

Interested in more sessions like this? Explore Gary’s workshops to continue your journey.

Steal the Show Workshop + Performance Corporate Event
2024-09-26 15:00 - 19:00
Steal The Show: Improv-Based Training to Make You a More Dynamic Presenter
Imagine captivating your audience from the very first word, holding their attention effortlessly, and leaving a lasting impact. In a world where creativity and connection reign supreme, your ability to present dynamically in person is your secret weapon.
Welcome to “Steal The Show,” an electrifying 90-120 minute workshop designed specifically for creative professionals. Through the playful, transformative methods of improvisation, you’ll uncover the secrets to becoming a mesmerizing speaker who can connect with any audience, inspire creativity, and communicate with unwavering clarity. This highly interactive session will arm you with the techniques and confidence to think on your feet, engage authentically, and truly steal the show.

Learning Objectives:

Master the Art of Engaging Communication: Develop and refine your public speaking skills in a fun, supportive environment, enhancing your ability to captivate and connect with audiences.
Embody the Principles of Improvisation: Understand and apply key improv tenets to think quickly, adapt to any situation, and maintain audience engagement effortlessly.
Command the Room with Confidence: Gain insights into improving your physical presence and charisma, boosting your credibility and influence among clients and prospects.
Elevate Your Creative Expression: Harness playful, improv-based techniques to infuse your presentations with creativity and authenticity, making every interaction impactful and memorable.
Prepare to step up, stand out, and steal the show with newfound poise and persuasive power.

Pitch Perfect: Hilarious Unseen Slides Challenge
Turn your presentations into a tour de force of wit and creativity with Pitch Perfect, the fantastic companion to our “Steal The Show” workshop. This one-hour improv show will have four team members stepping up to deliver presentations on surprise topics, using slides they’ve never seen before.
It’s all served up with a generous helping of humor, reminiscent of the nail-biting excitement of America’s Got Talent. With a panel of three peers judging their performance, this event promises countless laughs and a newfound appreciation for the art of improvisation. Witness your colleagues transforming into improv heroes and stealing the limelight with their spontaneous brilliance.

Details:

Our 1-hour signature show experience
Belly laughs that foster connections among teammates
A “PowerPoint will never be the same” show that will inspire you, your team, and your boss to deliver game-changing talks at work
A chance for your teammates to shine on stage and bask in the applause of an entertained audience

If you’d like to book a workshop with Gary Ware for your organization, reach out at hello@breakthroughplay.com or click here to learn more about our trainings and workshops: https://www.breakthroughplay.com/training/
Got what you’re looking for and ready to chat one on one? Schedule a free consultation here: https://www.breakthroughplay.com/free-consult/

MPI San Diego W.A.V.E. Forum Closing Keynote
2024-09-25 08:30 - 17:30 | Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa, 875 Hotel Cir S, San Diego, CA, 92108, United States
We’re excited to announce that Gary Ware, an expert in creativity and professional growth, will be a keynote speaker at the upcoming W.A.V.E. Forum. This will be the first full day, in-person conference since 2019, designed to supercharge your professional journey. With Gary’s dynamic approach to blending playfulness and purpose, his keynote will set the tone for a day filled with powerful insights.
The event will also feature six enriching professional development sessions and ample networking opportunities, making it the perfect gateway to advancing your career in today’s competitive landscape. Whether you’re a member or non-member, this jam-packed day is sure to leave you inspired and ready to tackle your next professional challenge!
Playful Pathways: Captivate and Engage Your Audience with the Power of Improvisation
Are you ready to transform the way you engage your event attendees? Brace yourself for an exhilarating keynote with Gary Ware, an acclaimed specialist in applied improvisation, who will spark your imagination and elevate your event planning. In this dynamic and interactive session, you will dive into the world of playfulness and learn to harness the power of improv to create captivating event experiences. Through a series of lively and insightful activities, Gary will guide you in cultivating a spirit of innovation, unity, and spontaneity among your attendees. By the conclusion of this keynote, you will walk away not just with invaluable tools and techniques, but with a fresh perspective on how to keep your audience engaged and enthralled from start to finish. Together, let’s embark on a playful adventure to amplify attendee engagement at your events!
Register Now!

West Valley College Staff Day Keynote
2024-08-23 09:00 - 12:00
Attention event planners, meeting planners, and conference organizers! Are you searching for a professional who can add a touch of magic to your upcoming event? Look no further because Gary Ware is your guy!
As a highly experienced event facilitator and corporate trainer, Gary’s expertise lies in conducting engaging breakout sessions, delivering captivating keynotes, and orchestrating memorable event activations.
Known for his mastery of applied improvisation and other playful techniques, Gary has the unique ability to captivate audiences and ensure they have an unforgettable experience.
With his guidance, you can transform ordinary breakout sessions into dynamic and interactive experiences, inspire attendees to think outside the box, and foster an atmosphere of innovation and collaboration.
Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your event to new heights!
So, what are you waiting for? Let Gary make some magic happen at your event! Contact him today to learn more about how he can elevate your event to the next level. Get ready to dazzle your audience like never before!
Click here for more information and testimonials.

If you’d like to book Gary Ware for your event, reach out at hello@breakthroughplay.com or click here to learn more about our trainings and workshops: https://www.breakthroughplay.com/training/
Got what you’re looking for and ready to chat one on one? Schedule a free consultation here: https://www.breakthroughplay.com/free-consult/

Private Off-Site Team Building Workshop - Portland, OR
2024-08-22
Gary Ware has educated people and organizations around the country sharing his top strategies and practices on play, teamwork, reducing stress, improving sales, and productivity. Ware’s customized corporate training programs utilize play and improvisation to increase creativity, collaboration, and engagement.
Combining over half a decade of experience with improvisation, and over 14 years in digital marketing, Gary has helped hundreds of companies and thousands of professionals like you make significant breakthroughs in their life.
Customized based on your current organization’s pain points, workshops using improv and organizational behavior strategies can be run for:

1-Day Sessions
Half-Day Sessions
Multiple sessions (1 hour a month for 6 months)
Once a week

Click here for more information and testimonials.

If you’d like to book a workshop with Gary Ware for your organization, reach out at hello@breakthroughplay.com or click here to learn more about our trainings and workshops: https://www.breakthroughplay.com/training/
Got what you’re looking for and ready to chat one on one? Schedule a free consultation here: https://www.breakthroughplay.com/free-consult/

Private On-Site Team Building Workshop - San Diego, CA
2024-08-16 06:30 - 13:00

Jewish Family Services San Diego Day of Play 2024
2024-08-14 08:00 - 14:00
I’m excited to share that I’ll be helping facilitate the annual Jewish Family Services Day of Play for the 6th year in a row! Our long-standing partnership with Jewish Family Services has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m proud to have been part of impactful moments like those highlighted in our 2019 case study, where we created engaging experiences that brought families and communities closer together. Read more below about our team building offerings!

Gary Ware has educated people and organizations around the country sharing his top strategies and practices on play, teamwork, reducing stress, improving sales, and productivity. Ware’s customized corporate training programs utilize play and improvisation to increase creativity, collaboration, and engagement.
Combining over half a decade of experience with improvisation, and over 14 years in digital marketing, Gary has helped hundreds of companies and thousands of professionals like you make significant breakthroughs in their life.
Customized based on your current organization’s pain points, workshops using improv and organizational behavior strategies can be run for:

1-Day Sessions
Half-Day Sessions
Multiple sessions (1 hour a month for 6 months)
Once a week

Click here for more information and testimonials.
If you’d like to book a workshop with Gary Ware for your organization, reach out at hello@breakthroughplay.com or click here to learn more about our trainings and workshops: https://www.breakthroughplay.com/training/
Got what you’re looking for and ready to chat one on one? Schedule a free consultation here: https://www.breakthroughplay.com/free-consult/

Corporate Family Day Virtual Campfire Connections
2024-08-09 09:00 - 10:00, 2024-08-06 15:00 - 16:00
Through interactive games and small group discussions, employees will get a chance to skip the small talk and dive deeper resulting in higher levels of trust, more productivity, and a greater sense of self.
Grow your team in a fun and playful way in an online environment. Choose from one of our signature events or we can design a custom experience for your team! Learn more here: www.breakthroughplay.com/virtual-team-building

Corporate Family Day Virtual Escape Room
2024-08-08 15:00 - 16:00, 2024-08-06 09:00 - 10:00
In this engaging experiential activity, your team will virtually travel to another dimension and experience several challenges where their creativity, perseverance, and teamwork will be tested. Will they make it out before the time runs up?
Grow your team in a fun and playful way in an online environment. Choose from one of our signature events or we can design a custom experience for your team! Learn more here: www.breakthroughplay.com/virtual-team-building

2024 NCSL Legislative Summit Workshop: Legislative Staff University
2024-08-05 16:00 - 17:00

Private On-Site Team Building Workshop — Charleston, SC
2024-07-17 07:00 - 11:30

The HOBY Los Angeles Leadership Seminar Keynote
2024-06-21 09:00 - 10:30 | California State University
The HOBY Los Angeles Leadership Seminar is a leadership development program which brings together students from across the county. The seminar is a motivational program that includes critical thinking, mentoring, panel discussions, goal-setting, and project planning activities.
________________________________________________________
Attention event planners, meeting planners, and conference organizers! Are you searching for a professional who can add a touch of magic to your upcoming event? Look no further because Gary Ware is your guy!
As a highly experienced event facilitator and corporate trainer, Gary’s expertise lies in conducting engaging breakout sessions, delivering captivating keynotes, and orchestrating memorable event activations.
Known for his mastery of applied improvisation and other playful techniques, Gary has the unique ability to captivate audiences and ensure they have an unforgettable experience.
With his guidance, you can transform ordinary breakout sessions into dynamic and interactive experiences, inspire attendees to think outside the box, and foster an atmosphere of innovation and collaboration.
Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your event to new heights!
So, what are you waiting for? Let Gary make some magic happen at your event! Contact him today to learn more about how he can elevate your event to the next level. Get ready to dazzle your audience like never before!
Click here for more information and testimonials.

If you’d like to book Gary Ware for your event, reach out at hello@breakthroughplay.com or click here to learn more about our trainings and workshops: https://www.breakthroughplay.com/training/
Got what you’re looking for and ready to chat one on one? Schedule a free consultation here: https://www.breakthroughplay.com/free-consult/

Panel Member at Aspen Ideas: Health (Aspen Ideas Festival)
2024-06-20 - 2024-06-23
I’m excited to share that I’ll be heading to the Rocky Mountains to participate in Aspen Ideas: Health, as part of Aspen Ideas Festival from June 20-23rd.
⁠
On June 23rd, I’ll be taking part as a panel member in the closing track “Boomers to Zoomers: Thriving at Any Age” where we’ll dive into the transformative power of play for everyone, regardless of age!🫶🏽
⁠
Aspen Ideas Festival brings together leading health practitioners, researchers, business leaders, changemakers, artists, and storytellers to share ideas and experience, turn big ideas into action, and pave the way towards better health for all. I’m stoked to dive deep into the significance of play in this setting. ⁠

TO REGISTER: Please choose one of the pass types here. Or you may download a PDF of the registration form to submit by email or post.
FOR QUESTIONS or for more information on the Aspen Ideas Festival and Aspen Ideas: Health, please contact Deborah Murphy at 970-544-7955.
⁠
Want even more info on this awesome event? Find all the details here!

Private Educator's Summit - San Antonio, TX
2024-05-29 - 2024-05-30
I’m thrilled to be providing a virtual and in-person keynote, and workshop at an educator’s summit in San Antonio, TX from 5/29 to 5/30. See below for more details about each session I’ll be offering.
Day One
Overcoming Burnout and Revitalizing Teaching Through Play (Virtual Keynote)
In the demanding world of education, where the pressure to continuously engage and inspire can lead to burnout, there’s a surprisingly joyful remedy: play. As educators you are skilled in using play to ignite curiosity and joy in your students, imagine applying that same playful spirit to enrich your lives. With 61% of educators feeling the weight of stress, it’s crucial to embrace play’s restorative effects — for both you and your students. This session will guide you in integrating playful strategies into your daily work and life, transforming stress into vitality and rediscovering the joy of teaching. Envision a workday brimming with laughter, creativity, and meaningful connections. Join us to revitalize your teaching journey, making play the core of both learning and living.
Day Two
The Art of Play: Unleashing Creativity and Joy at Work (In Person Keynote)
Step into a space where play and imagination fuel the fires of creativity and job satisfaction. This hands-on keynote picks up where we left of and dives deep into the essence of play in the workplace. We’ll explore how adopting a playful mindset can transform your teaching and create an environment where you thrive. Drawing from the wonders of improv and play psychology, you’ll learn to navigate educational challenges with ease, building spaces of trust and dynamic growth. Walk away equipped to inspire a culture of creativity and satisfaction in your work and life.
The Power of Play: A Hands-On Adventure in Connection and Growth (In Person Workshop)
Dive into the heart of play with this immersive playshop, where the fun is serious business. Guided by the principles of applied improvisation, you’ll engage in exciting, interactive games designed to unleash your potential and forge deeper connections with your colleagues. It’s more than just play; it’s an opportunity to experience first-hand the transformative power of play. Explore, experiment, and express yourself freely in a supportive environment.
More Info
For more information regarding my trainings, workshops, or keynotes, reach out at hello@breakthroughplay.com or click here to learn more about our trainings and workshops

Private On-Site Team Building Workshop - Oceanside, CA
2024-05-23 09:30 - 10:30

ATD 2024 Conference: Turbocharge Your Training With Applied Improvisation Workshop
2024-05-21 13:00 - 14:00 | New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, 900 Convention Center Blvd,, New Orleans, LA, 70130, United States
Hey my fellow Play Rebels. Ready to revolutionize your trainings & captivate your audience like never before? I’m excited to be heading back to ATD for my workshop From Dull to Dynamic: Turbocharge Your Training With Applied Improvisation.
This workshop is a perfect opportunity for L&D pros to acquire the skills they need to become dynamic trainers. Based on the science of improvisational thinking, you’ll gain skills to think on your feet and create engaging training sessions that will stick.
Here’s what’s in store for you: 👇

Understand how improv can benefit training programs and practices.
Develop the skills to adapt on the spot and create a dynamic learning environment that keeps participants engaged and excited.
Gain confidence in your ability to create memorable and effective training experiences.

ATD24 New Orleans Rates

ATD Members
Non-Members

Advanced Rate (Ends April 5)
$2,195
$2,595

Standard Rate (Ends May 17)
$2,395
$2,795

Onsite Rate
$2,595
$2,995

➡️ Register Here ⬅️

Private On-Site Team Building Workshop — Seattle, WA
2024-05-18

Culture Impact Lab Workshop Facilitation and Keynote
2024-05-15 08:00 - 2024-05-16 17:00 | The Arbory, 2219 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL, 60612, United States
I am thrilled to share that I will be keynoting and facilitating a workshop at the Culture Impact Lab, hosted by Call for Culture in Chicago, IL on May 15-16, 2024.

On Day 1 (May 15), I’ll be giving a talk titled The Power of Play: Inviting People Into Brace and Change-Ready Spaces, from 9:30-9:45a

In this dynamic event, we will challenge outdated leadership paradigms and explore the future of work. Together, we will uncover innovative strategies to create human-centered workplaces that not only enhance employee experience but also make a positive impact on society.
Join me for an immersive experience focused on transforming workplace culture into a driving force for meaningful connection, sustainable change, and regenerative outcomes. I believe it’s time to do workplace culture differently, and if you believe the same, I would love to see you at the Culture Impact Lab.
Purchase your tickets for the Culture Impact Lab here and use code GARYWARE300.
Early Bird Admission: $3800.00
Team Rate Admission: $3500.00

Private On-Site Team Building Workshop — San Diego, CA
2024-04-24 08:45 - 10:00

Xponential Trade Show - Event Emcee
2024-04-23 - 2024-04-25 | San Diego Convention Center, 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States
Ladies and gentlemen, get ready for the most captivating event of your life! Gary is here to rock your world as your ultimate event emcee at XPONENTIAL!
XPONENTIAL is a gathering for autonomy experts and innovators from various industries. Thousands of researchers, executives, engineers, program managers, policymakers, and end users come together to push the boundaries of uncrewed and robotic technology.
Gary, our extraordinary emcee, brings a unique combination of wit, charm, and improvisation skills. He knows how to keep crowds engaged, entertained, and on the edge of their seats. Whether it’s a conference, gala, or any gathering, Gary ensures each moment is filled with excitement, surprises, and lots of laughter. From seamless transitions to unforgettable interactions with the audience, he guarantees your event will leave a lasting impression.
So, if you’re ready to transform your event from mediocre to mind-blowing, reach out to us and let’s create an unforgettable experience together! Get ready to ignite the spark and leave your guests wanting more.
Learn More or Register as an Attendee / Exhibitor Here!

Zoomers to Boomers Online Intergenerational Improvisation Theater Class
2024-04-16 18:00 - 2024-06-04 20:00
Zoomers to Boomers Online Intergenerational Improvisation Theater Class
8 week online intergenerational improv class for teens through elders on Zoom. Running from March 19th to May 17th. Fin Aid Available.

Are you tired of “Age Silos?
Life doesn’t have to be that way! Online Intergenerational Improvisation can help us bridge the gap!
Let’s break down those age barriers!
Online Intergenerational Improvisation Theater games are a great way to connect across age groups!
Feeling isolated at home?
Join us in our online improv classes and connect virtually with like-minded, young-at-heart people of all ages around the world, to play together while also addressing social issues of common concern!

$50 off Early Bird Rate good through March 12th.
8-week class, Tuesdays 3/19 – 5/7, 6:00-8:00 pm PST
If you are in need of financial aid or a family discount please email yael@zoomerstoboomersimprov.com for more info.

RESERVE A SPOT

Meet Your Instructors

Yael Schy (Boomer)
Yael Schy is a dynamic theater and dance instructor, improviser, storyteller, singer/songwriter, and stand-up comedian known for her creative approach that makes learning FUN! Yael has been performing and teaching theater and dance for all age groups for almost 50 years, including being a pioneer in teaching INTERGENERATIONAL IMPROVISATION for more than a decade. She is the director of All That Jazz, a San Francisco Bay Area musical improv troupe, and a founding member of the Applied Improvisation Network.
Gary Ware (Millennial)
Gary Ware, the Founder of Breakthrough Play, is a sought-after Corporate Facilitator and Keynote Speaker with nearly a decade of experience as a performer in improv theatre. He assists teams with unlocking creativity and confidence, and sparks collaboration with experiential methods proven to drive peak performance. As a facilitator, Gary has worked with people of all ages. His experience has ranged from improv workshops assisting elementary school students with emotional intelligence, to Laughter Yoga at assisted living facilities.

[WE]Con 2024 Keynote — Unlock the Power of Playfulness: Elevate Every Event with Improv Thinking
2024-04-10 12:00 - 2024-04-12 14:00 | Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel, 4500 MacArthur Blvd, Newport Beach, CA, 92660, United States
Are you looking for new ways to create unforgettable event experiences? Look no further! I’m excited to share that I’ll be delivering my keynote “Unlock the Power of Playfulness: Elevate Every Event with Improv Thinking” at [WE]Con 2024 on April 11th.
Through a series of fun and interactive exercises, you’ll learn how to use improv thinking to foster collaboration, creativity, and connection among your attendees. By the end of the session, you’ll have a toolbox of techniques to help you design events that are not only more engaging but also more effective at achieving your business goals. Get ready to discover the missing ingredient to elevating every event experience!
Learn more and register here!
