Research has found that play is essential to human survival. For kids, play is the avenue by which they make sense of the world, their bodies, and their peers. But the importance of play does not diminish as we grow older. In fact, for adults play may very well be critical to developing stronger social bonds within a given community, providing a boost to our mental health. But what, if anything, is the purpose of play? What does play look like? Where do adults find space for play in their lives? In what ways do people play with and bend society's expectations, rules, constraints, and constructs? What can play in the workplace achieve? How do we bring playfulness, fun and joy to the office, or better yet, how do we make playfulness our office, and make human connection our mantra? How does play connect us to ourselves, to others, and to place? On Episode 4, featuring Toronto-based clown and body improv artist Ja-son, we explore the ancient art of clowning and improv, using one's body as a playful, improvisational device to alleviate complex circumstances, as well as the deep social implications of this art form.
—Anabelle Budd and P.J. Marcellino