Jon Burnett

Collaborator
Group Facilitator 
Public Speaking Coach

I help teams and individuals find their voice, master "the moment," and build deeper connections through the power of  applied improvisation and performance technique.

Whether you are looking to elevate your team’s collaboration or command the stage with a powerful monologue, my approach blends rigorous technical training with a transformative, playful spirit.

What I Do

Applied Improv & Group Facilitation: Utilizing deep improvisational tools to foster empathy, enhance dynamic communication, and spark creative collaborative storytelling within organizations and ensembles.

Public Speaking & Monologue Coaching: Helping individuals unlock authentic presence, overcome stage anxiety, and deliver impactful, resonant performances.

The Background

My journey with improvisational theater began at the age of six, sparking a lifelong dedication to the art of live performance. Over the past two decades, I have worn many hats:

The Educator: I have inspired students from kindergarten to the university level. I currently teach at the Berkeley Rep School of Theatre and spent 24 years serving as the Drama Specialist for the San Francisco Friends School.

The Performer: My acting and improv roots run deep. I am a founding member of the improv ensemble The Incidentalists, and have performed on stages from New York City to Budapest—ranging from classic Chekhov to contemporary comedy.

The Craft: I hold an MFA in Performance from the University of Tennessee’s International Actor Training Academy and a BA in Arts & Social Change from New College of California. I refined my craft under Diane Rachel (BATS) at Berkeley Rep and completed a six-month intensive in Action Theatre with Ruth Zaporah.

Beyond the Stage

When I’m not facilitating workshops or coaching speakers, you can usually find me writing haiku, strumming Bob Dylan songs on my baritone ukulele, or passionately rooting for the 49ers.

Let’s Collaborate.

Ready to bring playful, profound transformation to your team or your next presentation?