a 501(c)3 non-profit org.
Speaking & Presenting
Both online and now in person, Robert is happy to bring his unique energy, style, and research to your group for a fun, inspiring and interactive look at the effect of improvisation and storytelling on communication, confidence and creativity.
Sat., Sept. 10 - Denver, CO
Robert will keynote The 9th Annual e3 Conference, bringing together individuals with Parkinson’s, their Care Partners and family members, as well as professionals who work with the Parkinson’s community to provide them with tips and tricks for living vibrant and healthy lives.
Sat. Oct. 23 - Baltimore, MD
Robert will keynote this unique educational program that recognizes the importance of engaging patients, caregivers and family members to learn the new skills necessary to manage their PD.
Oct. 22-25 Washington, D.C.
Robert will speak at this event which will "gather community + support group leaders and allies from around the country, convening prospective leaders, newbies, and veterans to connect, collaborate, and embrace the magic that happens when we come together to learn".
Walt DisneyWorld Marathon
January 8th, 2023 - Orlando
Robert and his dad, Dan, are running 26.2 miles with Mickey. They ran the Bay to Breakers in April 2022 - click here to see some of the great news coverage from that event. This run will mark the celebration of Robert's graduation from his PhD program and the full-scale launch of Yes, And...eXercise! Click here to support us with your tax-deductible donation.
Past Events
Improv for Parkinson's Summit
Vancouver, B.C. July 25, 2022
PD Avengers Larry Gifford hosted this first annual summit at the Tightrope Theater. Dan Dumsha, Director of improv for wellness at Tightrope, interviewed Drs. Joan Miravite and Jon Squires as well as improv practitioner and Licensed Family and Marriage Therapist, Margot Escott. Robert Cochrane also presented the latest research on improvisation's effect on PD from his work in his PhD program. A troop of people with PD, including Larry, performed improvisation for the live and online audience of more than 200. You can watch the recorded event by clicking here.
Community improv presentation
Portland - July 19, 2022
Our hybrid event at CSz Portland was a free, informative and interactive presentation of improv's effect on Parkinson's disease. People with PD, care partners, family, and those serving the PD community were in attendance both live and virtually. Participants played simple yet challenging games that brought out emotions, inspiration, and new insights. You can see the recorded event by clicking here.
