

training
Stay in the loop - join our mailing list to hear about upcoming workshops
Scroll down for our registration policies.
All on-sale workshops listed at our Corsizio portal:
workshops
Locomotive offers improvised theatre training through one-off workshops, term based training, and weekend long intensives.
Watch this space for upcoming opportunities!
Note: term based training is on hiatus, read our blog for more information.
What is it?
Workshops! Sometimes a one-off special topic or guest teachers, sometimes a weekly workshop series, and sometimes a weekend intensive. We try to provide a range so there's something for everyone's availability. We also try to match the content to the most appropriate delivery - some things work best in short bursts and others need the time to develop.
Is it for me?
If you want to become an improvisor, or are one already and want to get better, or want to expand your repertoire and toolsets - then yes! Check our workshop announcements for the recommended experience level and skillset, and if you're still not sure if a workshop is suitable, just ask.
What does it cost?
As an example: a full registration for an eight-week course is $220. However, for all our workshops there is a special Earlybird registration fee open to anyone who signs up on time, and we also offer concession prices, scholarship opportunities, and payment plans.

coaching
Working on a show and need an outside eye? Facing a plateau in your improv development? Or perhaps your improv group would like a guest teacher for a workshop or two. We have extensive experience, flexible approaches, and unique perspectives that can lift your work and focus your improv.
What is it?
We are available to coach individuals, ensembles and companies in performance, teaching, directing, production and general improv skills. This could take the shape of workshops, one-on-one coaching, mentorship across a project or a set time frame, or something else we haven't thought of.
Is it for me?
We're here for beginners, seasoned pros, directors, producers - anyone working in improv who needs support and guidance on their path. It helps if you have a specific goal or project and a timeframe in which to achieve it (or at least start your path towards it). Check out our About Us section to read more about our team and our values to help you decide if we're a good fit for you.
What does it cost?
Prices range from $50-$200 per hour depending on the size of the workshop and the preparation needed. We have a sliding scale depending on time commitment, project ambitions, and your budget. We also have a strong desire to support under-represented improvisors and will gladly discuss sponsorship arrangements. Get in touch with your needs and budget through the below form, and we'll find a solution that works for us both.

registration policies
General, Payment & Financial Assistance
Payment is required at the time of registration - if this is an issue for you, please get in touch and we can arrange an instalment plan.
We have a strong interest in supporting marginalised people, and if you would like to access financial assistance, we have full and partial scholarships available. Please contact us to apply (or email hello@locomotive.nz) and complete the registration process.
When in workshops please turn phones to silent (you are welcome to take notes on your device), bring your own drink vessels, and wear comfortable clothes you can move in.
Experience Levels
When deciding if a workshop is right for you, check the Levels under 'Classifications' on the workshop registration page. We use the following general level delineations:
- Beginner: <1 year, has learned the basics, limited performance experience
- Intermediate: 2-4 years, strong foundation, general performance experience
- Experienced: 4+ years, extensive performance experience, director/teacher
- General: All experiences welcome
- Teacher: Specifically aimed at teachers, whether for drama, improvisation, or other performance
The categories are a guideline only; we recognise that no two improvisors’ journeys are the same. We ask that participants be honest and practical with their self-evaluation, and to get in touch if you have any questions.
Covid-19 and other illnesses
There are various communicable diseases out and about in Wellington right now, including covid and measles. If you are feeling unwell or have been exposed to anything, you are encouraged to stay home and will receive a full refund with our thanks for keeping others safe. Masking in the workshops is more than welcome.
Cancellation
Our courses holds limited spaces. For this reason, we request that cancellations are made at least one week before your scheduled course. This will allow us to offer your spot to another student. You may email us at hello@locomotive.nz to cancel.
- If you cancel at least one week before the course, you will receive a full refund.
- If you cancel after one week before the course, and before the cutoff, you will receive a refund less a $25 admin fee, or a full transfer of the credit to another course.
- If you cancel after the cutoff, there will be no refund - however we are happy to discuss transferring your registration to another course or storing it as credit.
- For an 8 week course, the cutoff is the second session. For all other courses, the cutoff is the first session.
Workshops that are cancelled by Locomotive for any reason will be refunded in full to all participants.
Code of Conduct
The Locomotive Code of Conduct (COC) is a set of boundaries and guidelines that we require every participant to agree to during their time at all Locomotive events and associated environments.
Our COC applies to everyone participating in Locomotive events in any capacity: this includes workshop attendees, performers, teachers, directors, production crew and volunteers. It does not apply to staff employed by our event venues; however we expect these venues to treat our participants respectfully and professionally, and we will absolutely go in to bat for you if you have a negative experience.
It is our responsibility as events organisers to provide a safe space for all participants, and to have rules and systems in place to manage any situation that threatens that safety. Locomotive asks all participants and contractors in our workshops, performances, networking and social events to commit to these principles, to respect each other and our audience, and to maintain professionalism and integrity.
HARRASSMENT
We are dedicated to providing a harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, race, age, ethnicity, disability, physical appearance, body size, and/or religion. We do not tolerate harassment of or by participants or staff in any form.
Harassment includes, but is not limited to:- offensive verbal comments that reinforce social structures of domination (related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, or religion)
- deliberate intimidation, stalking, or following harassing photography or recording sustained disruption of talks or other events
- inappropriate physical contact unwelcome sexual attention
- advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behaviour.
Participants asked to stop any harassing behaviour are expected to comply immediately. If a participant engages in harassing behaviour, Locomotive retains the right to take any actions to keep our space a welcoming environment for all participants, including warning the offender or expulsion from current and/or future events. Organisers may take action to redress anything designed to, or with the clear impact of, disrupting events, or making the environment hostile for any participants.
COMMUNICATION
All communication should be appropriate for a professional audience including people of many different backgrounds. This applies both to participants and teaching. We understand that you are working in the moment and that sometimes inappropriate things come out (especially in workshops) - we trust you to use your best judgment and to play from a place of fun, love and respect for your fellow improviser.VENUES
When onsite at any venue: attend safety briefings where relevant, adhere to all safety guidelines, and follow any and all instructions given by venue management and Locomotive staff. Respect the alcohol license at venues. Be on time and prepared for shows, call times, and workshops. Respect the facilities. Report any hazards or accidents promptly and honestly. Be a good neighbour. Make each other look good.REPORTING
To report any issue, you can talk to any of our company or email us at hello@locomotive.nz. All reports will be kept confidential unless otherwise agreed. When reporting a breach or discussing any issues you are welcome to include a support person at any stage (and they do not have to be involved in the course or company).
Consequences for breaching the Code of Conduct will be commensurate with the severity of the situation, and may include: apologies to affected parties, fines where financial loss has been incurred, exclusion from events, removal from events without refund, and being directed not to return in future. All decisions with regards to such situations are at the sole discretion of Locomotive.
Thank you for helping make Locomotive events a welcoming, friendly environment for all.
Contact us on hello@locomotive.nz
© 2019-2023

