Diane Rachel
Company Member since 1989
Coach since 1989
Diane Rachel has been performing with BATS Improv for over 2 decades. In addition to being in the performance company, she is also on the coaching staff, corporate training staff and has introduced a myriad of specializations to the school curriculum. The proudest addition being Stage Combat and Intimacy. Diane was a founding member of True Fiction Magazine and is also on the staff of Berkeley Rep School of Theatre. Diane’s most recent fascination has been the world of quantum physics; exploring the connection between the brain and how we create our own reality through Improvisation. She’s been teaching a popular class at Berkeley Rep; “Your Brain on Improv.”
Q & A
What was your first professional improv job?
1979 in Oswego, New York; I was performing in a Commedia dell’arte troupe called “The Wildwood Players.”
What was your first BATS show?
I don’t remember. That’s scary. I remember seeing a Pulp Playhouse show.
What are your favorite formats?
Anything that is freeing rather that limiting. The more constraints, the more difficult it is to keep the flow going.
Best moment on the BATS stage?
I got to sing a punk rock song about Jesus.
Any improv advice?
Practice what you preach.
What are your artistic Influences?
Keith Johnstone, Madonna, Maggie Smith
Favorite movies?
Waking Life, It’s a Wonderful Life, Life of Brian
Favorite play?
Arcadia by Tom Stoppard
Shows Every 
