Ken Ferguson - Improv Actor & Instructor

1 instructor at The Torch Theatre. I am certain Ken would do well teaching any level of our program, but at Level 1 he was remarkable. For our students, he was their first exposure to learning improvisation and his kindness and patience were tremendous assets helping them feel comfortable in an area that was very foreign to many of them. Ken is concise and specific in his instruction without being dictatorial. He is caring without losing authority. Because of these two traits he earns trust quickly among students and fellow instructors -and in the rare instance of conflict, he can resolve the issues because of that trust in him. Outside of The Torch I see these same qualities in Ken as he teaches. I also notice that he works with a wider age range of students in those situations. He treats teens, adults and senior citizens with the same respect, and that respect is returned. I am proud to know Ken as a human being, as an improvisor and as an instructor. He will always be welcome to teach any subject he wants at The Torch. Bill Binder
Producer
Torch Theatre

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Joe Kelepolo, Owner, Dramagenics LLC
“Ken puts together a great show. He is a fabulous performer as well.” August 4, 2008

Beth Moser-Hart, Owner, Bizvlopment.com
“Ken Ferguson is a consummate professional and one of the nicest people I've met in a while. He has a passion for what he does, which is clearly evident with only a few brief moments of conversation. Ken is willing to share his passion so freely and has an inviting charm that makes you want to learn more. His love and support of the arts endears him to the hearts of many and his genuine friendliness is refreshing. I recommend Ken with the utmost of confidence.” July 27, 2008

Stacey Gordon, Owner, Puppet Pie
“Ken Ferguson is one of the most professional and kind people I have worked with in the theater industry. As a venue director, Ken goes to every length to make sure we have what we need as performers and workshop instructors. He's knowledgeable and treats audience members with the same amount of intelligence and respect.”

Ken Jeffers, Owner, Professional Eyecare Associate
“Ken is a talented improvisor. He taught me all the skills of improvisation that has lead not only to a very enriching hobby, but to several new friends I have met along the way. I would recommend anyone take Ken's improv classes.”

David Specht, Producer, Director, Performer, Valley Fever Improv
“I have had the distinct pleasure of working with Ken in many different facets. Ken is among the most well-networked, well-respected, and well liked people I have ever met. We have acted and produced together both scripted and improvised shows. I have shared countless stage hours with Ken and my respect for him grows each time. Ken's professionalism and the tenacity with which he attacks each endeavor are among his greatest strengths. I recommend Ken's classes, shows and production capabilities.”

Alexander Cherry, Owner, Twisted Confessions
“Ken is an amazing actor, a brilliant improviser, and a good friend. I recommend him to anyone looking for creativity, ambition or drive.”

Rob Williams, Cast member, EXiT 185 Improv Comedy Troupe
“In the first, short, ten months of operation Ken has put over 90 unique acts on the stage at The BlackBox Theatre, including some that repeat on a regular basis. Cast and crew for the many productions include some out of town talent, but most of the work and performing has been done by local community theater enthusiasts. This includes a range of talent, experience and abilities. From first time performing children, to comedians who have worked on television, Ken has provided a venue where people of all backgrounds, persuasions, abilities and interests can get experience in performing, crewing, directing, and writing, while giving local audiences a wide variety of entertainment and educational productions you would normally expect in a larger city or college town. Having worked with Ken on projects and promotions, and having learned and performed under his teaching and directing, I am impressed with his personal care and concern for people. Keeping artists moving in the same direction, while maintaining his vision for a true local performing venue has made Ken a real asset and feather in the cap for Casa Grande. Rob Williams Technical Systems Director Casa Grande Valley Newspapers Inc.”

Lindsey Gemme, Editor, Casa Grande Valley Newspapers INC
“I've been working with Ken as a photographer and fellow actor for several years. Ken Ferguson is a fun-loving, dedicated artist with a big heart. His commitment to the arts and theatre, and pushing the envelope of expression in a small town is really making changes. From giving teens and kids an artistic alternative outside of public education to a forming a performing adult improv troupe, to plays that are all cast with local residents, Black Box is an amazing addition to Casa Grande.”

Mary Kortsen, City Council Member, Casa Grande, AZ
“In addition to Ken’s other, better known talents, he makes a great public speaking coach. During my recent and successful run for City Council, I enlisted Ken’s help to prepare me for the various forums. I was looking to feel more comfortable and confident in this setting. I was able to accomplish this with Ken’s common sense and sense of humor.” - Mary Kortsen

Kyle Hanlon, Owner/Writer/Director at Hanlon Media

“Ken is the best! I’m kind of a shy guy, but while taking Ken’s Improv class, he always made me feel at ease. His classes are fun and relaxed and next thing you know, you’re on stage doing some crazy character and loving every minute of it. His classes are awesome, I recommend them to everyone – if you need more laughs in life – Ken’s classes are the way to go! Ken, you rock.”

Debbie Exner
“I took Ken's Level I Improv class at the Torch Theater in Phoenix. He was fantastic. Ken creates a safe space for exploration and learning and he knows how to recognize each participant's strengths and challenge them to swing out into less comfortable areas. If you want to play with improv I highly recommend Ken's classes.”

Danny Vega
“Ken Ferguson is an awesome teacher and friend to me. We first met after I saw an ad in the Casa Grande Dispatch for his improv class. I showed up scared and even confused; improvisation seemed like a bad idea-- just saying things on the spot?! Ken, however, made it so easy. He taught me the basics of improv clearly and simply, but I think his biggest strength as a teacher is creating a comfortable environment. He knows how to encourage his students to let loose and "play at the top of their intelligence." I learned how to improvise from Ken, but more importantly, I learned to love improvisation. He brings more than just wisdom and intelligence to his lessons; he brings a deep sense of passion and care. In art, I don't think there's anything more important than that and that's why Ken had such a profound influence on me as an improviser and person.”