Backstory: The Studio
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Mercedes De Jesus Manukian, instructor at Backstory: The Studio

The Language Studio · Open Session

Improvise en español

With Mercedes De Jesus Manukian

Total price

€25.00 / session

Schedule

Every Sunday

Ongoing

Time

17:30–19:30

Class size

Min 5 · Max 16

Improvise en español is an interactive, hands-on workshop that combines Spanish language learning with the principles and techniques of improvisational theatre; a two-for-one experience.


Through playful exercises, spontaneous conversations, and collaborative games, participants will practice speaking Spanish in a relaxed and supportive environment. The workshop focuses on building fluency, confidence, and spontaneity, while encouraging participants to embrace mistakes, think on their feet, and communicate more freely.


No scripts, no pressure—just a creative space to practice Spanish, connect with others, and have fun while learning.


Class Breakdown:


1. Introduction & Agreements — 5 min

We begin with a brief introduction, an overview of the session, and a few group agreements to create a safe, supportive, and playful learning environment.


2. Warm-Up & Icebreakers — 20 min

Fun, low-pressure games help participants build confidence, get comfortable speaking Spanish, and get to know one another.


3. Small-Group & Pair Activities — 40 min

Participants work in pairs and small groups through improvisation exercises designed to practice vocabulary, spontaneous speaking, listening, and conversational skills.


4. Break — 5 min

A short break to recharge before the final part of the session.


5. Improv Jam — 35 min

We put everything into practice through short-form improv games. Participants improvise in Spanish, experiment with new language, and build confidence through play and collaboration.


6. Reflection & Wrap-Up — 10 min

We finish with time to reflect on the session, share observations, and address any questions or language corrections. The class is conducted entirely in Spanish, with English support available for explaining games and activities when needed.

About Mercedes De Jesus Manukian

Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in the United States, Mercedes De Jesus Manukian is the founder of The Fun Lab, an artist, cultural manager, event producer, and Applied Improvisation facilitator with over ten years of experience across art, culture, education, and community projects. She creates safe, inclusive, and judgment-free spaces where people can build confidence, strengthen communication, and develop creativity through play, experimentation, and collaboration. Her work focuses on connecting people, fostering meaningful experiences, and creating spaces that amplify diverse voices.


The Fun Lab is a creative team-building and learning program that uses play, improvisation, and creative challenges to promote well-being, strengthen collaboration, and build meaningful connections within communities and teams. Each experience is adapted to the needs of the group, creating an inclusive and playful environment where people can learn, connect, and develop new skills.


Applied Improvisation is a learning methodology that uses structured play and improvisational practices to develop communication, collaboration, creativity, and adaptability outside of traditional theater settings. Through exercises focused on listening, responding, presence, and collective decision-making, participants develop confidence, creativity, and the ability to navigate uncertainty together.