This weekly 2-hour drop-in class is your ultimate playground for becoming a more articulate, inspired, and expressive comedian and performer. Through dynamic exercises and techniques, we’ll tap into the power of physicality—because your body has the potential to speak louder than words! Together, we’ll explore how movement can supercharge the delivery of your bits, stories, and speeches, leaving your audience captivated and craving more.

Each week brings a fresh focus to spark your creativity and strengthen your performance skills. Think of it as an artistic workout! From mastering presence to exploring neutral masks, half masks, genre work, clowning, collective creation, improv and much more —there’s something new to discover every time. And don’t worry, we’ll revisit topics to build consistency and adapt to the energy of the group!

No Experience Necessary!
This workshop is open to all artistic adventurers—whether you’re a seasoned performer or just curious to try something new. You don’t need to be a comedian or clown to reap the benefits. Come as you are and let your imagination lead the way.

Who Is This For?
This class is perfect for anyone who:

• Wants to command the stage with confidence and intention

• Is curious about the Lecoq Technique

• Is ready to dive into new styles of theatre and performance

• Wants to level up their physical comedy and clowning skills

• Dreams of creating their own original work

• Is eager to shake up their acting and live performance routine

• Wants to add depth, physicality, and object work to their improv or stand up comedy game.

Fee: $25 + HST = $28.25 for 2 hours


I will send a email to everyone the night before! If you send the day of, just show up! 

Please wear movement clothes and indoor shoes. Nothing too busy on the clothes! THANKS! 

SIGN UP FOR CHASE'S NEWSLETTER for info on new workshops and classes! 
Here

About Chase:

Chase Jeffels is a graduate of École Jacques Lecoq and the Laboratoire d'Étude du Mouvement (Laboratory of Movement Study) in Paris, France. He also trained under the guidance of renowned clown master Philippe Gaulier (teacher of Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter, and Emma Thompson). Gaulier had this to say about Chase’s work (imagine it in a thick French accent): “I do not like very much Canada, but I like what you do.”

Chase has also studied with a host of other notable teachers in clown, bouffon, and idiot work, including Aitor Basauri, John Gilkey, Chad Damiani, Kevin Krieger, Deanna Fleysher, Jaime Mears, Ken Hall, Isaac Kessler, and Gordon Neill. Additionally, he completed the three-year classical theatre conservatory program at George Brown Theatre School.

As an actor and comedian, Chase’s work spans film, television, and theatre. He has performed across Canada, France, and China. Chase is one half of the dynamic duo West 2 West, celebrated for their innovative blend of sketch, clown, and improv comedy. In his solo endeavors, Chase continues to push the boundaries of comedy, merging improv, sketch, and a unique fusion of stand-up and clown. His work bridges the gap between mainstream comedy and the art of clowning, showcasing his passion for creative performance.

It's Sweet Sweet Wednesday!

Check out our bi-weekly drop-in show!

Bad Dog Theatre is thrilled to partner with Sweet Action Theatre to bring you THE BUCKET SHOW. All are welcome to come by for a chance to try improv live on-stage (or watch the unscripted hilarity as an audience member).

PWYC

The Bad Dog Academy and MEATSTICKS Presents...
PROPHESY

A Sketch Ensemble Studio Series Graduate Showcase

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PROPHESY

We have seen the future. It is deeply stupid.

One psychic trying to solve Toronto's most unsolved crime by peering into cloudy visions. Featuring seven of Toronto's biggest fools and an endless bound of laughs. PROPHECY, a comedy show brought to you by Bad Dog Academy's Sketch Studio Series Grad Class.

Created and Performed by:

Ella Berger
Will Catangui
Krish Nair
Jenn Lo
Keith Richardson
David Schmitt
Keara Voo

Directed by Alessandra Vite

Come Make some Stupid with Professor Eff. A class designed for individual growth with a focus on generating material for the Idiots to take with them. We look to move away from the pedogogy of failure and the flop and immerse ourselves in finding “true Stupidity” and the “Idiot poet”. We embrace the ridiculous to find pleasure to play our own absurd natures. Lets face it, humans are pretty darn silly creatures.

To register, email jessegbuck@gmail.com

Eff (Jesse Buck) comes with over 25 years of experience in Clown and physical comedy. An award winning performer Jesse has self produced almost two dozen Clown shows, and toured extensively with Cirque du Soliel in numerous productions.

Jesse has studied with many international teachers, including Micheal Fields at Dell Arte School of Physical Theatre, Mike Kennard of Mump and Smoot and completed the two year program in Paris, France with Philippe Gaulier.

Jesse over all this has developed a very unique and contemporary take on Clown. A study that is catered to individual growth rather than dogma. With a punk infused warmth and spirit, Jesse will help guide you towards finding your Idiot Self.

Tuesday Nights 6pm-9pm from Sept 9th -Oct 14th
Cost of workshop $300

Over the course of the workshop we will look to discover your own little Idiot and help you develop a small bit of material that you can take away and work on independently.

Page to Stage: Storytelling & Structure
Mondays, 6 – 9PM | Sept 8th – Oct 20th, 2025 
SHOWCASE SHOW: Sunday October 26th, 7PM
$339 Before Aug 22nd, then $395.50  (includes HST)
@Sweet Action Theatre, 180 Shaw St. Toronto

Register by eTransfer to jamesmichaelgangl@gmail.com 
OR
Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/7P7FD4LHRR2QQ 

Pulitzer Prize winning author Frank McCourt said, “Everyone has a story to tell. All you have to do is write it.”  Sounds easy enough, but with a lifetime full of stories, how do you know where to start? This class is that start!  

Each week, you’ll use writing exercises to generate material inspired by your own lived experience and get feedback in real-time. You’ll practice listening to your unique artistic voice, giving it structure, and translating it into a dynamic performance piece. This class takes you from sitting in front of a blank page to standing in front of an audience, performing a fully realized performance piece inspired by your life.

https://www.jamesgangl.com/pagetostage

For this iteration of the solo show that she has been working on (mostly virtually through her Instagram persona @jennythingshows) for almost eight years solid, Jenna invites Sweet Action owner and proprietor, and multi-award winning clown (father) Gordon Neil to “live-direct” this ongoing work-in-progress.

(Witness) the walking jukebox musical and shame(ful)/less) Anglophiliac Jenna Show(s) (and tells?) clown-based solo improv that playfully delves into the intricacies of late-diagnosed neurodivergence. Through elaborate musical numbers (gone awry), Leqoc-inspired neutral mask meditations (in motion), (rambling) monologues that expose her (lack of) executive functioning, Jenna invites the audience into her playful world of chaotic awkwardness all in the service of basic human presence.

What is(n’t) it about? (While) definitely her, it could very well be (about) Jennything.

Come join in the pro(c/gr)ess: maybe you’ll want to direct her (one day) too/and see how it’s done. Go(r)d has directed countless others to international acclaim.

A trad wife by trad(e) in her leisure (time/dreams) you may find her at home ironing her underwear.

DISCLAIMER: this show *may* (or may) [not] (end up) be(ing) a comedy, (but you will) laugh.

This neurodivergent themed evening will feature a very special opening act by Phoebe Taylor.

One performer. One audience. One goal: Make us laugh. By any means necessary.

That’s the essence of clown. We don’t need a red nose (sorry, nose devotees—you're still welcome; and to those afraid of clowns, rest easy). The red nose is a mask, but you’re already wearing one: yourself—your real, ridiculous, raw, dark, charming, failing, sad, angry, vulnerable, beautiful self.

Clown isn’t like mainstream comedy—it’s not just setup and punchline. It’s about being real, giving everything to the audience, and risking absolute failure in front of strangers in pursuit of something ineffably funny or beautiful or both.

In this drop-in, get ready to dive in headfirst as Chase throws you into games and improvs that push you to play, discover, and respond. When the audience laughs—why? What did you do? How did it feel? How do we get back there? And when the laughter stops—what’s next? You’ll be chasing the laugh and, more importantly, the pleasure of playing.

What’s Your Funny?

Everyone has something that makes them uniquely funny. The audience will tell you. The work is about standing in front of them, riffing, failing, failing, failing—until suddenly, you land the laugh.

Whether you’re brand new to clown or a seasoned performer, this drop-in gives you reps in front of an audience with live direction by Chase Jeffels to find what works for you.

Important Note: I want my students to feel as free as possible to explore. However, to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all, if I see a riff crossing a line, I will kindly shut it down.

Who is this for?

This drop-in is for participants who…

• Are looking for a new approach to comedy, performing, and writing

• Want to add uniqueness to their improv skills

• Want to be more spontaneous in their acting or life

• Want to feel more confident on stage—and in life

• Are workshopping and discovering their unique voice

• Are curious about clown (without a red nose!)

• Want to be more present and responsive in the moment

• Want to overcome stage fright or public speaking

• Want to change their relationship with failure

Class Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Fee: $25 + HST = $28.25 for 2 hours

PLEASE REGISTER!

I've had to turn people away at the door who didn’t register, and I’d love to avoid that! This is just to ensure everyone gets a fair amount of time in class.

Max capacity: 15 people—so register early to secure your spot!

To secure your spot, register and send an e-transfer to jeffels.chase@gmail.com.

Important: Include your name and the date of the drop-in in the transfer notes.

About Chase:

Chase Jeffels is a graduate of École Jacques Lecoq and the Laboratoire d'Étude du Mouvement (Laboratory of Movement Study) in Paris, France. He also trained under the guidance of renowned clown master Philippe Gaulier (teacher of Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter, and Emma Thompson). Gaulier had this to say about Chase’s work (imagine it in a thick French accent): “I do not like very much Canada, but I like what you do.”

Chase has also studied with a host of other notable teachers in clown, bouffon, and idiot work, including Aitor Basauri, John Gilkey, Chad Damiani, Kevin Krieger, Deanna Fleysher, Jaime Mears, Ken Hall, Isaac Kessler, and Gordon Neill. Additionally, he completed the three-year classical theatre conservatory program at George Brown Theatre School.

As an actor and comedian, Chase’s work spans film, television, and theatre. He has performed across Canada, France, and China. Chase is one half of the dynamic duo West 2 West, celebrated for their innovative blend of sketch, clown, and improv comedy. In his solo endeavors, Chase continues to push the boundaries of comedy, merging improv, sketch, and a unique fusion of stand-up and clown. His work bridges the gap between mainstream comedy and the art of clowning, showcasing his passion for creative performance.

Bad Dog Academy Presents

IMPROV FOUNDATIONS 4 GRAD SHOWCASE

Watch our talented Bad Dog Academy Graduates do Their Thing!

This brilliant showcase features performances by John Portero's Foundations 4 and Alex Kolanko's Foundations 4 Graduating Classes!

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Tickets: $10 | PWYC at the door | Bad Dog Students Free

Come check it out!

Hinprov's BIPOC Improv Drop In

Date: 31st Aug 2025

Time: 4:00 - 6:00 PM

Location: Sweet Action Theatre

Come join us for Hinprov's BIPOC Improv Drop In at Sweet Action Theatre. This in-person event is perfect for comedy enthusiasts looking to hone their improv skills. Led by experienced comedians, this workshop will have you laughing and learning in no time. Don't miss out on this opportunity to unleash your creativity and have a blast with fellow BIPOC comedy lovers. See you there!

Stay for the BIPOC Jam after the workshop, and may be perform as well!!!!

An improvised comedy about growing up with immigrant parents. The whole night is inspired by the audience, bringing their stories (submitted anonymously before the show) to life on stage – from hidden secrets and parental advice to cultural dilemmas.

Every show is uniquely special because we bring different guest comedians to each performance! Our stage has hosted comedians who have shone at renowned festivals like Just for Laughs, Edinburgh Improv Fest, and can be seen on platforms such Disney+, Apple TV, CBC, Netflix, and many more.

Doors: 9:00

Hey Toronto! Are you ready to treat yourself to the city’s newest hottest GAYest improv show?

That’s gonna be a — Hard YAS!

Don’t miss this show for all the gays, theys, and the token straights in your life, featuring a cast full of Toronto’s fave queer comedians.

Featuring: Tyra Banda, Elanja Corosky, Stevey Hunter, Vicky To, along with new speical gays each show!

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Enjoy the last Hard YAS show? Come try it for yourself!
Introducing Hard YAS drop in improv workshops - for the queers by the queers.
From 6 - 7:30pm all the gays and theys are invited to join us for a workshop right before the show!

Breaking Bard: An Improvised Shakespeare

Description: Get ready to laugh and be amazed as talented improvisers bring the works of Shakespeare to life in a whole new way! No scripts, just pure creativity and wit as they create worlds on the spot inspired by the Bard's famous plays. Whether you're a Shakespeare aficionado or just looking for a fun night out, this event is sure to entertain!

Make Up! The Musical is a musical comedy show that’s completely, well, made up! Using suggestions from the audience, we come up with a whole one hour musical with improvised characters, plots, places, and, of course, music. Starring the award-winning musical improv troupe: Staccayto Staccato!

Staccayto Staccato (pronounced like "To-may-to To-mah-to") is a Toronto-based musical comedy troupe featuring performers from the schools and stages of Bad Dog Theatre, Comedy Bar, Second City, and more! Their high-energy blend of humour and music earned them the prestigious "Big Buzz" award at the Guelph Fringe Festival 2024 with their show “Make Up! The Musical”, and they’re bringing it to Sweet Action Theatre! Get ready for tunes, feels, and laughs!

Two of the funniest, wildest groups in the city - Little Miss Normal and Mrs Beast - join forces for one incredible improv show.

Composed of TV stars, writers, accomplished standup comedians, past and present members of Second City Mainstage and Touring Companies, 7 former Bad Dog Featured Players, 2 former winners of the World's Biggest Improv Tournament, 2 successful podcast hosts, another podcast host, 2 former podcast hosts, and in all likelihood, future podcast hosts, these two teams are stacked with an exceptional amount of veteran comedy talent that guarantees a comedy show you won't want to Mrs.

Bad Dog @ Sweet Action Theatre

$15

Little Miss Normal is

Andy Assaf, Tyra Banda, Edward Choi, Emma Decorte, Bita Joudaki, Mike Mildon, Rhys Naylor & Griffin Toplitsky

Mrs Beast is

Tim Blair, Ghazal Ghiami, Brendan Kane, Blair MacMillan, Malik Powell, Sachin Sinha, Ben Sosa Wright & Carley Thorne

Buckle up for a rollercoaster ride of laughter and emotion as a previously nonexistent play is brought to life before your very eyes! Experience the magic of theatre like never before as Oliver Georgiou joins forces with local celebrities of stage and screen for an unforgettable journey. Our special guests this month are Paloma Nuñez, Nkasi Ogbonnah, and Chris Sandiford.

Every performance is a bespoke adventure, crafted just for you. Immerse yourself in a whirlwind of spontaneity as these world-class improv comedians weave together a full-length, three-act spectacle filled with beauty, hilarity, grit, and gravitas. No two shows are ever the same, ensuring each audience member a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you breathless and craving more. Don't miss your chance to witness this one of a kind theatrical experience, brought to life by the finest and funniest talents in Toronto!