Improvisational theater, or improv as it’s commonly known, is a form of live theater in which the plot, characters, and dialogue are created spontaneously in the moment. Rooted in comedy, improv is often a hilarious, unpredictable, and fast-paced exploration of human interactions, but it can also delve into drama, romance, and other genres. Understanding the basics of improv is not just beneficial for budding comedians or actors, but for anyone wishing to enhance their creativity, communication skills, and ability to think on their feet.
The Roots of Improv
Improv as we know it today originated from a variety of sources, including Commedia dell’arte, a form of Italian theater dating back to the 16th century. However, modern improv comedy really started taking shape in the mid-20th century with the work of theater games innovator Viola Spolin, and the establishment of influential improv theaters like The Second City in Chicago and The Groundlings in Los Angeles. These groups honed the principles and formats of improv, and they continue to serve as training grounds for many of today’s top comedians and actors.
Improv: A Unique Form of Theater
What distinguishes improv from other forms of theater is its spontaneity and immediacy. Traditional theater relies on scripts, rehearsed lines, and predetermined staging, whereas improv is largely unscripted and reactive. Improv performers, or improvisers, often take suggestions from the audience to set the scene, then they collaboratively build a narrative in real-time.
Basic Principles of Improv
To navigate the unpredictable world of improv, performers rely on a set of guiding principles:
- Yes, and…: The golden rule of improv. When a scene partner makes a statement or introduces an idea, you accept it (say “yes”) and then expand on it (say “and”). This principle encourages cooperation and forward momentum in the scene.
- Support Your Partner: In improv, everyone should be striving to make their scene partners look good. This means accepting their ideas, building on them, and stepping back when needed to let others shine.
- Commitment: Regardless of how outrageous the scenario or character, performers must fully commit. This means fully embracing the circumstances of the scene, your character, and the actions you undertake.
- Listen: In order to react and build on what your scene partner is saying, you must first listen carefully. This also helps ensure that the dialogue and action stay consistent and coherent.
- Stay in the Moment: Improv happens in the here and now. Rather than planning ahead or worrying about what’s already happened, performers must stay present and focused on the current moment of the scene.
Improv Formats
Improv comes in several formats, each offering a different structure for performers:
- Short-Form: This consists of short scenes often guided by a specific game or rule. Examples include “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” and ComedySportz.
- Long-Form: These are longer scenes or series of scenes that revolve around a theme or suggestion. The Harold, developed at iO Theater in Chicago, is a famous example of long-form improv.
- Improv Games: These are specific structures or sets of rules used to shape a scene. Examples include “Freeze,” where players tap each other out and start a new scene, and “Lines from a Hat,” where performers must incorporate audience-suggested lines into a scene.
Improv and Comedy
While improv can cover a variety of genres, it is perhaps most famous as a form of comedy. The unpredictability of improv naturally lends itself to humor, with performers often finding themselves in absurd scenarios or playing quirky characters. Furthermore, since improv involves active listening and quick responses, it can lead to surprising twists and clever wordplay that result in big laughs.
However, it’s important to remember that the goal of improv is not just to be funny, but to be truthful. Authentic reactions and interactions often yield the funniest moments. Trying too hard to be funny can lead to forced jokes or gags that don’t serve the scene.
Benefits of Learning Improv
Learning improv can offer a range of benefits, even for those not planning to pursue comedy or acting:
- Creativity: Improv requires you to think on your feet and generate ideas quickly, helping to improve creative thinking skills.
- Confidence: Getting up on stage without a script can be daunting, but it can also be empowering. Over time, improv can build confidence, both on stage and off.
- Communication: Improv hones listening skills, teaches effective communication, and encourages clear and concise speech.
- Teamwork: Since improv scenes are created collaboratively, performers learn how to work effectively in a team, support others, and share the spotlight.
How to Get Started
The best way to start learning improv is to take a class. Many cities have improv theaters that offer classes for beginners. These classes provide a safe, supportive environment to learn the basics, practice skills, and have fun.
Additionally, reading books about improv can offer insights. Titles like “Impro” by Keith Johnstone, “Truth in Comedy” by Charna Halpern, Del Close, and Kim Howard Johnson, and “Improvise.” by Mick Napier offer valuable advice and techniques.
Watching improv shows, both live and recorded, can also be hugely beneficial. You can observe different styles and techniques, and see how experienced improvisers handle various scenarios.
Conclusion: The Joy of Improv
At its core, improv is about embracing the unexpected, supporting others, and enjoying the process of creation. It’s a thrilling, fulfilling art form that offers endless possibilities for exploration and growth. Whether you dream of making it on “Saturday Night Live,” want to improve your public speaking skills, or simply seek a fun, creative outlet, learning the basics of improv can be a rewarding journey. As Del Close, one of the pioneers of modern improv, once said: “Fall, then figure out what to do on the way down.” In improv, the journey is the destination.