Shana Merlin is a nationally recognized performer, trainer, and teacher from the world of improvisational theater. Awarded Best Improv Teacher and Best Female Improviser by the Austin Improv Collective, Merlin has been a professional improviser since 1995, having performed in Amsterdam, Calgary, Seattle, and Atlanta. Merlin has founded several companies that feature improvisation: in 2003, Merlin Works, providing training, interactive presentations, and comedy shows to businesses and organizations and in 2008, the Merlin Works Institute for Improvisation for adults in Central Texas. She also co-founded Austin’s LAFF: Ladies Are Funny Festival. Merlin's clients include Apple, HP, Dell, Whole Foods, Four Seasons, and Advance Autoparts.