What people say
"Michael introduced me to improvisation in a way that was clear, detailed and really fun! I often use his improvisational technique in my commercial auditions and they were incredibly useful to me when I was preparing my auditions for The Lion King as well as All in the Timing and many others." - John Brady, "Timon", The Lion King
“I have taken classes from a number of improv teachers and I keep going back to Michael because he really teaches craft, not just games. He also fosters a supportive and non-competitive environment. I've learned from him that the more I can access my natural spontaneity, the more fun I have, the more creative I am, and the better my relationships are. It's not about being funny; it's about being free. And being free often results in big laughs, but can also result in great poignancy. Take these classes if you want to live life more fully, or if you just want to have a great time.”- Catherine Torpey, Executive Director, The Focusing Institute
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"Michael has been an invaluable resource for me over the years. I invited him to join the staff of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College as our Improv Instructor and I found his ability to guide his students to discover not only answers, but also truth on stage, to be the mark of an excellent teacher. His energy and enthusiasm are contagious and help his students reach beyond their own expectations. Michael is also an excellent comedic director and has been part of the creative workshop team for the Royal Caribbean International "Krooze Komic" program." - Steve Smith, director, Big Apple Circus
"Michael knows how to get the best from those he works with. He creates an atmosphere where both wild creativity and strong discipline thrive. And he's wicked funny. I'd work with him again in a heart beat." - Karen Getz, choreographer, (dance captain for Dirty Dancing)
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"Some experiences manage to meet our expectations and some to exceed them. Then there are those experiences that go even one step beyond that. Such has been the case with my work with Michael Rock, who provided consultation on a script I’m writing, based upon a book of mine. His considerable knowledge (and love) of the theater, his talent and creativity, his generosity of spirit and ability to really listen, have all combined to help me transform the original script into an actual, viable play. As a first time playwright this goal had seemed maddeningly elusive, but Michael has been wonderful in helping to de-mystify the mysterious, fascinating and – for me – sometimes frustrating process of creating a piece of theater." - Dr. Janice I. Cohn
BACKSTAGE.COM Off-Off Broadway August 29, 2003
Musical Chairs
Reviewed By Elias Stimac
Employing a clever concept guaranteed to make each show different and unique is Michael D. Rock's "Musical Chairs." No, this isn't a songfest about furniture -- rather, it's a very telling take on the fragile bonds between friends and lovers, and all the various permutations that can develop. And apparently it struck the right chord with Fringe Fest audiences -- it looks like the production will be moving to the Pantheon Theatre in September.
Musical Chairs
Reviewed By Elias Stimac
Employing a clever concept guaranteed to make each show different and unique is Michael D. Rock's "Musical Chairs." No, this isn't a songfest about furniture -- rather, it's a very telling take on the fragile bonds between friends and lovers, and all the various permutations that can develop. And apparently it struck the right chord with Fringe Fest audiences -- it looks like the production will be moving to the Pantheon Theatre in September.