Community Partner Spotlight: Jenni Lilledahl

If know anything about me, you know that improv is a very important part of my life. After the loss of my wife way back in 1997 it was improv that brought me back from an impossible dark space. Jenni Lilledahl, the then co-owner of The Brave New Workshop comedy theatre put the pieces together that this guy who auditioned (and was hired) for her company was also the one who was bugging her about establishing a Gilda’s Club chapter in the Twin Cities.  

Earlier this month I had the pleasure of assisting Jenni with leading some improvisation games and exercises for CaregiverCON. Showing up in this way for the Caregiving Community for me was nothing less than a personal triumph. I can blather on about the healing properties of these highly structured silly games, but Caregivers and those who support Caregivers got to experience it. I way undersold it in promotional materials as “Don’t worry it won’t hurt.” I think it did the opposite.  

Jenni is an amazing improvisor who can make very convincing arguments for the good in everything and everyone. She created a program called Improv for Life. She uses improvisational behaviors, practice and programs to inspire life transformation and help others spend more time in their most joyful mindset and best selves. We at Jack’s were treated to a private workshop led by Jenni a while back and its influence resonates with us still today.  

Jenni leads two Improv for Life classes weekly (one in person and one online) at Gilda’s Club Minnesota. She also leads an online class for people living with ALS monthly.