This workshop is the first in a three-part series of 10-hour intensives designed to develop articulate, inspired, and expressive performers. Emphasizing that our bodies communicate as much—if not more—than our words, we will explore how to harness physicality to enhance the delivery of bits, stories, and speeches.
In Part One, we begin in silence, examining our daily movements and relearning how to truly listen. To support this, we’ll integrate simple mindfulness and meditation techniques to slow down, tune in, and build awareness of how we move through space. This leads us to a crucial question: Does the performer on stage have a strong presence in the space? If not, how can we cultivate it?
Our primary focus is on becoming more articulate and intentional with movement, developing a state of neutrality that draws the audience into an imaginative space. To support this, we will work with Lecoq’s Neutral Mask—the mask beneath all masks. When it’s worn, the face disappears, words cannot be spoken, and all attention shifts to the body—where suddenly, every movement speaks. It offers a clean slate, a reset, and a powerful mirror. This foundational state is ever-present in performance and is essential to master before achieving true effectiveness and humor on stage.
Lecoq always recommended that if you are a dramatic actor, you should work in clown, and if you are a clown, you should work with the Neutral Mask. The two disciplines inform and challenge each other, strengthening a performer’s ability to be fully present and expressive.
Participants will engage in exercises to deepen their connection to space, explore presence through calm readiness, and work directly with Neutral Masks.
This workshop is open to artists of all backgrounds and experience levels—you don’t need to identify as a performer to benefit from the work.
Who is this for?
This workshop is for participants who…
Are curious about Neutral Mask
Are looking to develop a stronger stage presence
Want to be more expressive in performance
Want to become more articulate and intentional onstage
Are interested in the world of mime and object work
Want to build confidence and groundedness in their craft and life
May 17th and 18th 10-3pm ( 9 hours work 30 min lunch breaks a day )
Early Bird (first 5 spots): $175 + HST = $197.75 total
Regular: $200 + HST = $226.00 total
Scholarship or low-income option(2 spots) : $125 + HST = $141.25 total
20% off if you have taken a past intensive (not including drop in) or are currently a student in a college or university: $160 + HST = $180.80 total
More on the Neutral Mask:
Originally developed by legendary theatre teacher Jacques Lecoq, the Neutral Mask is like a reset button for performers. It strips away all the habits, tension, and “tricks” we rely on, helping you discover a calm, centered presence beneath it all. By wearing the mask, you learn to communicate with your whole body—clearly, simply, and truthfully. It’s a powerful tool for any actor who wants to move with intention, feel more grounded onstage, and express big emotions without forcing them. Plus, it’s weird and fun in that “I-feel-kinda-exposed-but-in-a-good-way” kind of way.
About your instructor, 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.