Maui resident Mark Beltzman, a world traveler thanks to his stage, movie, and television career, has been acting, writing, and directing since 1981. He brings a unique blend of talent and passion to every performance and has captivated audiences with compelling character portrayals and dynamic storytelling on both stage and screen. In 2014, he co-founded Maui Improv (short for “improvisation”), a non-profit dedicated to creating opportunities for improv education and performances on Maui. 

Improv, a powerful tool that requires mastering skills like listening, communication, and storytelling, helps people build confidence and collaboration. At its core, improv allows for spontaneity and moments of genuine interaction. Beltzman shared, “My philosophy is to figure out what’s working and do more of it, instead of what’s wrong; and to know the difference.”  

In his improv workshops, Beltzman incorporates lessons of transformation related to his years of involvement with the Kihei men’s group, ManKind Project Hawaiʻi (MKP). “The MKP group offers spaces where men are free to speak openly and honestly about their lives, accepting responsibility, purpose, and intention,” Beltzman explained. “We recognize connections to nature and humanity as we take accountability for our actions.” 

Beltzman says MKP lessons and improv work together. “Life happens outside our comfort zone.  I call improv the ‘art of allowing’ because it is for anyone who desires to cultivate the ability to flawlessly and spontaneously create magic on stage, and in life. Ultimately, we can strip away the layers we put up to protect ourselves and can simply be our most authentic self!” 

Beltzman is also a musician and is currently the solo tubist for the Maui Pops Orchestra (MPO) and also plays with the Maui Community Band (MCB). MCB has offered four free concerts on Maui so far in 2025, and MPO recently wrapped up its summer season with a classical chamber music concert. 

For more information about Maui Improv, visit www.mauiimprov.org. Readers can also follow @mauicommunityband and @mauipopsorchestra on social media for updates regarding the local fall 2025 concert season.