Episode 69 - Jill Eickmann
From Improv and Magic by LD Madera
November 18, 2025 · 1h 1m · Season 6 · Episode 2
About this episode
Jill Eickmann discusses the transformative power of improvisation and her work with Leela Improv Theatre.
In this episode of Improv and Magic, we spotlight the transformative world of improvisation with guest Jill Eickmann, co-founder and Artistic Director of Leela Improv Theatre. Known for her holistic approach to improv, Jill shares insights on ensemble building, truthful artistic play, and the healing power of performance. Jill Eickmann is a nationally recognized improvisational theatre artist, director, and educator. She co-founded Leela Improv, a bi-coastal training center and theatre company based in San Francisco and Raleigh. With over 20 years of experience, Jill has designed Leela’s seven-level improv curriculum, rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and joyful play. Her background includes an MA in Drama Therapy from the California Institute of Integral Studies, training with renowned institutions such as iO, Annoyance Theatre, and Upright Citizens Brigade, and corporate workshops for companies like Google, YouTube, Facebook, IBM, Visa, and McKinsey & Company. Beyond teaching, Jill is a performer and drama therapist who integrates improvisation with therapeutic practices, emphasizing connection, creativity, and self-expression. In this episode, Jill discusses the…
People in this episode
Host: LD Madera
Guest: Jill Eickmann
Topics covered
- improvisation
- theatre
- community building
- artistic expression
- drama therapy
Keywords
- improv
- theatre
- ensemble building
- artistic play
- drama therapy
- community
- creativity
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Leela Improv Theatre, California Institute of Integral Studies, iO, Annoyance Theatre, Upright Citizens Brigade, Google, YouTube, Facebook, IBM, Visa
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