About Us
Alligator Mouth Improv (AMI) is a multi-disciplinary improvisational ensemble based in upstate New York. Founded and led by Rhonda Morton, AMI is comprised of three other performers: Peter Chwazik, Amber Espar, and Sean Lukasik.
Drawing on theater, movement, vocals, music, storytelling, and video, and using audience stories, themes and ideas as inspiration, we offer one-of-a-kind performances created in the moment. We also have a passion for performing in non-arts venues (Performance Deli and Moving Possibilities) where passersby can serendipitously participate in an art experience; and we thrive on teaching in schools, workplaces, in our own studio and on-line—anywhere individuals and groups can benefit from the power of expressive arts.
History and Vision
AMI debuted in 2006, and went through many iterations until the fall of 2008 when this particular foursome emerged as an ensemble passionate about improvisation as a discipline unto itself, committed to making Alligator Mouth Improv central to their lives, and eager to perform and tour.
We work to inspire audiences and workshop participants to imagine their lives differently—seeing opportunity and beauty and strength where they didn’t before. We believe art-making and community-making are integral to each other, and that artists play a pivotal role in the commerce of ideas and the engine of innovation and inspiration. We strive to make art that allows people from all walks of life to experience a greater sense of what’s possible.
As improvisers, we thrive on the unknown and are constantly experimenting. People ask us how we can “rehearse” for an improvisational performance. Our rehearsals are more like laboratories where we create, test and refine new forms.
Improvisation as a Life Practice
As teachers, we believe that improvisation is a life practice that can profoundly transform lives. Whether we are showing grade school kids how to expand the ways in which they interpret “the truth” in any given moment, or teaching high schoolers to be the authors of their own life scripts, or helping adults express themselves more authentically, improvisation is a springboard for more awareness, creativity, flexibility and fun.