Part one of the improviser’s job. I often think of the improviser’s job as consisting of three different parts, but using those three parts, you then must do a fourth thing, so maybe it’s really four? I’ll let you be the judge. In my most humble opinion, an individual improviser is simultaneously a writer, an actor, and…
Tag: collaboration
How to Start an Improv Scene: Premise and Discovery
I approach an improv scene in one of two ways, what I will call: premise and discovery. Premise Improv Let’s start with “premise.” When you start an improv scene with an idea about what you want the scene to be about, you’re starting with a premise. Your job is to efficiently and effectively communicate this…
Object Work in Improv
Object work: the oft overlooked and under-practiced piece of the fully armed improv arsenal. So many improv scenes, especially in an improviser’s beginner years, are what I call, “talking head scenes.” The two players in the scene usually stand 2-3 feet apart near the middle of the stage and proceed to have a conversation. All…
Improv Books – My Recommendations
The Classics When I first started doing improv, these were pretty much the only books out there. They have their uses, but they are most interesting to me as historical perspective. The History The Practical Guides These are the books that I refer back to the most when I feel stuck in a rut. Some…
Tag! You’re it!: Why Teachers and Adults Should Join in Tag Games
We all know that play is an essential part of childhood. It’s how kids learn, develop social skills, and have fun. However, when it comes to games like tag, many adults often find themselves on the sidelines, watching kids run and laugh. But what if I told you that teachers and adults can reap numerous…
The Transformative Power of Improv: Your Ticket to a More Vibrant Life
In a world where the days blend together and digital screens dictate our interactions, we all crave something more. Something that breaks the routine, forges deeper connections, and lights the fire of personal growth. Enter the world of improvisational comedy, or improv, an extraordinary journey waiting for anyone willing to take the leap. You don’t…
Fostering Creativity and Critical Thinking Through Classroom Play
In the fast-paced world of education, fostering creativity and critical thinking skills in students has never been more critical. Traditional teaching methods, while valuable, often leave limited room for these essential attributes to flourish. However, there’s a delightful solution to this dilemma: the introduction of classroom play. In this blog post, we will explore the…
Unlocking Imagination and Learning: The Classroom Benefits of Role-Playing Games
When it comes to education, innovation often begins with a spark of imagination. One such spark can be found in the world of role-playing games (RPGs), where students become the heroes of their own stories, navigating challenges, making choices, and learning valuable life skills along the way. Let’s explore the many benefits of playing Dungeons…