What is improvisational theatre, and what is its fundamental characteristic?

Improvisational theatre, often shortened to improv, is a form of theatre, frequently comedy, where most or all of what is performed is unplanned and created spontaneously by the performers. Its purest form involves dialogue, action, story, and characters being collaboratively developed by the players as the improvisation unfolds, without a pre-written script.

Beyond performance, how are improvisational techniques applied in other fields?

Improvisational techniques are applied outside of performance as an educational tool in classrooms and in businesses to enhance communication skills, creative problem-solving, and supportive teamwork. They are also sometimes used in psychotherapy to help individuals gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and relationships.

What is the earliest documented instance of improvisational theatre in Western history?

The earliest well-documented use of improvisational theatre in Western history can be traced back to the Atellan Farce, which originated in 391 BC. This ancient Roman form of popular comedy featured stock characters and improvised dialogue.

How did commedia dell'arte contribute to the development of improvisational theatre?

From the 16th to the 18th centuries, commedia dell'arte performers in Italy improvised their performances based on a general outline, often performing in public spaces. This tradition significantly influenced the evolution of theatrical improvisation.

Which influential theatrical theorists utilized improvisation in acting training during the 1890s?

During the 1890s, theatrical theorists and directors such as Russia's Konstantin Stanislavski and France's Jacques Copeau, who founded major streams of acting theory, heavily incorporated improvisation into their acting training and rehearsal processes.

How did modern theatrical improvisation games originate in the early 20th century?

Modern theatrical improvisation games began as drama exercises for children, becoming a staple of drama education in the early 20th century. This development was partly influenced by the progressive education movement initiated by John Dewey in 1916.

Who is credited with developing specific techniques for improvisational theatre and teaching it?

Viola Spolin developed improvisation exercises in the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, codifying them in her book *Improvisation For The Theater*. This publication was the first to offer specific techniques for learning and teaching improvisational theatre.

What significant contributions did Keith Johnstone make to improvisational comedy?

Keith Johnstone, a British playwright and director, authored the influential book *Impro: Improvisation and the Theatre* and invented Theatresports. Theatresports has become a foundational element of modern improvisational comedy and inspired the popular television show *Whose Line Is It Anyway?*.

What is the historical significance of The Compass Players and The Second City?

The Compass Players, founded in Chicago by Paul Sills and David Shepherd, were influenced by Viola Spolin and became the first organized improv troupe in Chicago. Their success led to the formation of The Second City, which became a major hub for the modern Chicago improvisational comedy movement.

How did Viola Spolin's training methods influence The Second City?

Following The Second City's opening, Viola Spolin began training new improvisers through classes and exercises that became the foundation of modern improv training. Her protégé, Jo Forsberg, later developed these methods into a formal course at The Players Workshop, the first official school of improvisation in the United States.

What is the connection between The Second City and the cast of Saturday Night Live?

Many of the original cast members of the iconic sketch comedy show *Saturday Night Live* originated from The Second City, highlighting the troupe's role as a training ground for prominent comedians.

What is ComedySportz, and who founded it?

ComedySportz is an improvisational comedy format founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, by Dick Chudnow in 1984. It has since expanded internationally and is now known as CSz Worldwide, known for its family-friendly competitive improv shows.

What was The Committee theater in San Francisco known for?

The Committee theater, active in San Francisco during the 1960s and founded by alumni of Chicago's Second City, was a significant venue for improvisational performance on the West Coast.

What challenges did Joan Littlewood face regarding improvisation in performance?

English actress and director Joan Littlewood extensively used improvisation in developing plays but was prosecuted twice for allowing actors to improvise during performances. Until 1968, British law required scripts to be approved by the Lord Chamberlain's Office, with inspectors ensuring adherence to the approved text.

What is netprov, and how does it utilize social media?

Netprov is a form of online theatrical improvisation developed by Rob Wittig and Mark C. Marino. It leverages social media platforms to engage audiences in the real-time creation and evolution of dynamic fictional scenarios.

What are the two primary categories of modern improvisational comedy?

Modern improvisational comedy, as practiced in the West, is generally categorized into two main types: shortform and longform. Shortform typically involves brief scenes based on games and audience suggestions, while longform creates interconnected scenes that build a larger narrative or thematic structure.

How is shortform improv characterized, and what is a key example of its popularization?

Shortform improv consists of brief scenes usually constructed from a predetermined game or structure, often driven by audience suggestions. The television series *Whose Line Is It Anyway?* has significantly familiarized audiences with this format.

What distinguishes longform improv from shortform improv?

In longform improv, performers create shows where short scenes are often interrelated through story, characters, or themes. This contrasts with shortform, which typically features self-contained, game-based scenes.

What is the Harold, and who developed this longform structure?

The Harold is a well-known longform improv structure developed by Del Close, co-founder of ImprovOlympic. It has become a foundational format for many modern longform improvisations, providing a framework for scene development.

Which notable actors found their early careers in longform improv?

Actors such as Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, and Steve Carell began their careers in longform improv, demonstrating its effectiveness in developing comedic talent and performance skills.

What are some examples of non-comedic, experimental, or dramatic improvisational theatre forms?

Forms of improvisational theatre that are experimental and not necessarily comedic include Playback Theatre, Theatre of the Oppressed, the Poor Theatre, and the Open Theatre. These often explore deeper social, political, or artistic themes.

What was The Open Theatre, and what kind of work did it explore?

The Open Theatre was an avant-garde theatre group founded in New York City, known for exploring political, artistic, and social issues. They developed work through an improvisational process that anticipated or paralleled Jerzy Grotowski's "poor theatre" concepts.

What is Action Theatre, and who developed it?

Action Theatre is a physically based improvisation form developed by Ruth Zaporah on the West Coast. It treats language, movement, and voice with equal importance, creating performances without scripts or pre-planned ideas.

When did the field of applied improvisation emerge, and what is its purpose?

The field of applied improvisation emerged in the late 1990s. Its purpose is to utilize improv principles and techniques outside of the performative space, recognizing their value in areas like education, business, and personal development.

What advice did Stephen Colbert offer regarding life and improvisation?

In a commencement address, Stephen Colbert advised graduates to embrace life as the greatest improvisation, encouraging them to 'say yes' to the unknown, as there is often no script or control, and to find others who will reciprocate that openness.

How have Tina Fey and Patricia Ryan Madson applied improv principles to professional life?

Tina Fey, in her book *Bossypants*, outlined improv rules applicable in the workplace. Patricia Ryan Madson noted that professionals seek support in expressing their own voices, suggesting that improv can help unlock creativity that might be suppressed by rigid systems.

How did early silent filmmakers like Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton use improvisation?

Early silent filmmakers such as Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton often used improvisation during filming, developing gags on set and adjusting the plot to incorporate these spontaneous creations.

What was the Marx Brothers' characteristic approach to film scripts?

The Marx Brothers were known for deviating from their scripts, with their ad-libs frequently becoming integral parts of their routines and ultimately appearing in their films.

What is Mike Leigh's distinctive method in filmmaking?

Director Mike Leigh makes extensive use of improvisation in creating his films, often improvising significant character moments that may not even be included in the final movie, thereby enriching the depth of the work.

Which renowned American directors are noted for incorporating improvisation in their films?

Notable American film directors who have effectively used improvisation with actors include John Cassavetes, Robert Altman, Christopher Guest, and Rob Reiner.

Name some popular television shows that have incorporated improv comedy techniques.

Several popular television shows have utilized improv comedy techniques, including HBO's *Curb Your Enthusiasm*, the UK/US series *Whose Line Is It Anyway?* and its spinoffs, Nick Cannon's *Wild 'N Out*, and *Thank God You're Here*.

What was the nature of the early American improv television program *What Happens Now?*?

*What Happens Now?* was an early American improv television program that premiered in 1949. It featured six actors who improvised skits based on situations suggested by viewers.

What psychological state has been explored in relation to actors and improvisers?

Eberhard Scheiffele explored the altered state of consciousness (ASC) experienced by actors and improvisers in his scholarly paper, 'Acting: an altered state of consciousness.' This state is characterized by changes in various dimensions of subjective experience.

According to G. William Farthing, what dimensions of consciousness can acting alter?

G. William Farthing suggests that acting can alter most of the 14 dimensions of changed subjective experience that characterize altered states of consciousness. These include attention, perception, imagery, inner speech, memory, thought processes, sense of meaning, time experience, emotional feeling, arousal level, self-control, suggestibility, body image, and sense of personal identity.

What cognitive benefits are associated with improvisational theatre?

Improvisational theatre is associated with several cognitive benefits, including enhanced creativity, improved ability to deal with uncertainty, strengthened narrative skills, and a reduction in anxiety, as observed in studies involving various age groups.

How is the improv principle of 'Yes, and...' compared to psychotherapeutic concepts?

The improv principle of 'Yes, and...' has been likened to Milton Erickson's utilization process and various acceptance-based psychotherapies. This comparison highlights a shared therapeutic approach of acknowledging and building upon existing elements.

For what therapeutic applications has improv training been recommended?

Improv training has been recommended for couples therapy and for the training of therapists. It is also suggested to be potentially beneficial for individuals experiencing social anxiety disorder.

How do improvisers typically involve the audience in their performances?

Improvisers often foster audience interaction by soliciting suggestions, which serve as inspiration for scenes. This practice not only involves the audience but also serves as proof that the performance is unscripted.

What is an 'offer' in the context of improvisational theatre?

In improv, an 'offer' is a contribution made by a performer through dialogue or action that establishes an element of the scene's reality, such as defining a character, relationship, or setting.

What is 'blocking' in improv, and what is 'gagging'?

'Blocking' occurs when an improviser rejects or fails to accept an offer made by another performer, hindering the scene's development. 'Gagging' is a form of blocking used deliberately for comedic effect, though it is generally discouraged as it stops scene progression.

What is the fundamental principle of improvisational technique known as 'Yes, and...'?

The 'Yes, and...' principle is considered the cornerstone of improvisational technique. It involves accepting an offer made by a fellow performer and then adding a new element or idea, thereby building upon the established reality of the scene.

What is 'space object work' or 'space work' in improv?

'Space object work' or 'space work' is a technique, notably developed by Viola Spolin, where improvisers use mime to create imaginary props and environments. These created items are referred to as 'space objects' made from 'space substance'.

What skills are essential for improvisers when constructing characters quickly?

Improvisers need to rapidly construct characters by utilizing physicality, gestures, accents, voice changes, and other techniques as dictated by the scene. They must also understand character motivations to drive the action effectively.

How are scene changes typically managed in improv formats with multiple scenes?

Scene changes in improv are often managed through signals like a performer running in front of the scene (a 'wipe') or by tapping characters in or out. Performers not currently in a scene may stand at the sides and enter or exit by stepping into the performance space.

What is the focus of many European improv groups that emerged from the 1990s onwards?

Since the 1990s, many European improv groups have focused on exploring abstract, surreal, irrational, and subconscious elements in performance. They incorporate diverse techniques like dance, movement, sound, music, mask work, and lighting, often prioritizing artistic exploration over pure comedy.

What is the Brave New Workshop (BNW), and what is its historical significance?

The Brave New Workshop Comedy Theater (BNW) in Minneapolis, founded by Dudley Riggs in 1958, is a sketch and improvisational comedy theater. It holds the distinction of being the longest-running theater of its kind in the nation, having produced live comedy and improv for over six decades.

Who are considered foundational figures in the development of improvisational theatre?

Foundational figures in improvisational theatre include Viola Spolin and her son Paul Sills (founder of The Second City), Del Close (developer of the Harold format), Keith Johnstone (author of *Impro* and inventor of Theatresports), and Dick Chudnow (founder of ComedySportz).

What was David Shepherd's vision for The Compass Players?

David Shepherd, along with Paul Sills, founded The Compass Players with the aim of creating a true 'people's Theatre' and bringing political drama to working-class audiences, particularly in Chicago's stockyards.

How did the Improvisational Olympics evolve, and what is its legacy?

The Improvisational Olympics were created by David Shepherd and Howard Jerome in the 1970s. In the US, Charna Halpern produced them as 'ImprovOlympic' (IO), which now operates training centers and theaters and is credited with developing the fundamental structure for modern longform improvisation.

Who founded Playback Theatre, and what is its primary focus?

Jonathan Fox founded Playback Theatre in 1975. This form of improvised community theatre is often non-comedic and focuses on replaying stories shared by audience members, creating a shared experience.

What is The Groundlings, and who was its founder?

The Groundlings is an influential improv theatre and training center in Los Angeles, founded by Gary Austin. Austin was highly regarded as an acting teacher, whose work was grounded in his experiences with The Committee and Del Close.

Improvisational Theatre Wiki: The Art of Spontaneity: A Deep Dive into Improvisational Theatre

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A Journey Through Time

Ancient Roots

Improvisational theatre traces its lineage back to ancient Greece, with documented use in the Atellan Farce of 391 BC. Later, the Italian commedia dell'arte tradition (16th-18th centuries) relied heavily on performers improvising based on broad outlines in public spaces.

Pedagogical Foundations

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influential theatre theorists like Konstantin Stanislavski and Jacques Copeau integrated improvisation extensively into acting training and rehearsal methodologies. The progressive education movement, championed by John Dewey, also recognized improvisation as a vital tool for learning.

Theatrical Innovators

Viola Spolin's groundbreaking work in the mid-20th century codified improvisational techniques into "theatre games," profoundly influencing generations of performers. Her methods laid the groundwork for institutions like Chicago's The Second City, a crucible for modern improvisational comedy.

The Modern Landscape

Key Figures and Forms

Keith Johnstone developed influential theories and Theatresports, a format popularized by shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway?. In the US, Viola Spolin's techniques directly influenced The Compass Players and subsequently The Second City, establishing Chicago as a major hub for improv innovation.

Global Reach

Improvisation has expanded globally, with vibrant scenes in the UK, Canada, and beyond. Organizations like ComedySportz (now CSz Worldwide) have established franchises in numerous cities, while festivals and training centers continue to foster community and develop new talent.

Evolution of Styles

From shortform games rooted in audience suggestions to complex longform structures like "The Harold," improv continues to evolve. Contemporary practices also embrace non-comedic, experimental, and narrative-driven forms, pushing the boundaries of spontaneous performance.

The Heart of Comedy Improv

Shortform Improv

Characterized by brief scenes derived from audience suggestions and structured around specific games or formats. This style, familiarized by shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway?, emphasizes quick thinking and adaptability.

Longform Improv

Involves creating interconnected scenes, often exploring recurring characters or themes. Structures like "The Harold," developed by Del Close, provide frameworks for extended, narrative-driven performances, fostering deeper character development and thematic exploration.

Notable Alumni

Many acclaimed comedians and actors honed their skills in improv, including alumni from The Second City and Brave New Workshop. Figures like Tina Fey, Steve Carell, Mike Myers, and Stephen Colbert exemplify the pathway from improv stages to mainstream success.

Beyond Laughter: Experimental Forms

Diverse Methodologies

Improvisational theatre extends beyond comedy, encompassing experimental and dramatic forms. Techniques like Playback Theatre and Theatre of the Oppressed utilize improvisation for social commentary and personal exploration, often engaging audiences directly in the creative process.

Artistic Exploration

Avant-garde approaches integrate elements such as movement, sound, music, and mask work. European traditions, for instance, have explored abstract and surreal improvisational performance, focusing on expanding the genre's artistic vocabulary beyond traditional comedic structures.

Narrative and Physicality

Forms like Action Theatre, developed by Ruth Zaporah, emphasize a holistic approach, treating language, movement, and voice with equal importance. This physically-based improvisation creates compelling narratives and performances without reliance on pre-written scripts.

Applying Improv Principles

Business and Education

Applied improvisation leverages improv techniques to enhance communication, foster creativity, and build supportive teamwork in corporate and educational settings. Principles like "Yes, and..." encourage collaboration and problem-solving.

Personal Development

The practice of improv is recognized for its psychological benefits, including improved divergent thinking, enhanced narrative skills, and reduced anxiety. It encourages embracing uncertainty and developing greater self-awareness and empathy.

Interpersonal Skills

Improvisation cultivates crucial interpersonal skills, promoting active listening and responsive collaboration. As Stephen Colbert noted, it teaches participants to embrace the unknown, say "yes" to opportunities, and build upon the contributions of others.

Improv in Media

Film and Television

Directors like Mike Leigh and Christopher Guest have utilized improvisation to develop characters and scripts. Television shows such as Curb Your Enthusiasm and Whose Line Is It Anyway? showcase various forms of improvised performance, from dialogue to full scenes.

Radio and Digital

Early radio programs like What Happens Now? experimented with improvised skits. More recently, forms like "netprov" leverage social media to create dynamic, real-time fictional scenarios, demonstrating improv's adaptability to digital platforms.

The Psychology of Improv

Cognitive Processes

Improvisation engages complex cognitive functions, particularly attention and creativity. Research suggests it enhances divergent thinking, narrative construction, and the ability to manage uncertainty, contributing to overall cognitive flexibility.

Altered States and Well-being

Actors and improvisers often experience altered states of consciousness during performance. Studies indicate that improv training can improve emotional regulation, reduce social anxiety, and foster a greater sense of well-being and self-efficacy.

Core Principles and Process

Collaboration: "Yes, and..."

The cornerstone of improv is the "Yes, and..." principle, where performers accept offers (ideas, actions) from others and build upon them. This fosters co-creation and ensures scenes progress organically, avoiding negation or "blocking."

Establishing Reality

Improvisers collaboratively establish the scene's reality through "offers" and "endowments." This includes defining characters, relationships, and environments, often using mime or "space object work" to create imaginary props and settings.

Character and Transformation

Performers must quickly construct believable characters using physicality, voice, and motivation. The ability to transform and embody diverse roles, often across age and gender, is a key skill developed through improv training.

The Improv Community

Local and Global Networks

A vibrant community surrounds improvisational theatre, supported by numerous troupes, training centers, and festivals worldwide. These organizations foster collaboration, skill development, and the sharing of improvisational practices.

Growth and Development

College improv groups play a significant role in nurturing new talent. In Europe, a growing interest in abstract and non-comedic improv expands the genre's expressive potential, integrating diverse artistic techniques.

Key Contributors

Pioneers of Improv

Key figures include Viola Spolin (Theatre Games), Paul Sills (The Second City founder), Del Close (The Harold), Keith Johnstone (Theatresports), and Dudley Riggs (Brave New Workshop). Their theoretical and practical contributions shaped modern improv.

Viola Spolin: Codified theatre games and improvisation techniques.
Paul Sills: Founder of The Compass Players and The Second City.
Del Close: Developed longform structures like "The Harold."
Keith Johnstone: Pioneer of Theatresports and author of "Impro."
Dudley Riggs: Founder of Brave New Workshop, one of the oldest improv theaters.
Charna Halpern: Co-founder of ImprovOlympic (IO), influential in longform development.
Gary Austin: Founder of The Groundlings, influential in Los Angeles improv.
Jonathan Fox: Founder of Playback Theatre.
Alan Alda: Advocate for improv in science communication.

Influential Troupes

Institutions like The Second City, Brave New Workshop, The Groundlings, and Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) have been instrumental in training performers and advancing improv techniques. These theaters serve as incubators for comedic talent and innovation.

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References

The story of the Compass Players and its development into The Second City is told by first-hand interviews in Jeffrey Sweet's book "Something Wonderful Right Away" (Limelight Editions, 2004)

Janet Coleman's "The Compass: The Improvisational Theatre that Revolutionized American Comedy" (Centennial Publications of The University of Chicago Press, 1991).

Das Spiel mit dem Chaos - Zur PerformativitÃ¤t des Improvisationstheaters. Gunter LÃ¶sel. Bielefeld: transcript Verlag, 2013.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Improvisational theatre Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This content has been meticulously crafted by an AI, drawing exclusively from the provided source material to offer an educational perspective on improvisational theatre. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source, this material is intended for informational and academic purposes only.

This is not professional performance or theatrical advice. The information presented here should not substitute consultation with experienced theatre professionals or academic advisors. Always verify information with primary sources and qualified experts.

The creators of this page are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information herein.

The Art of Spontaneity

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Journey Through Time ⏳

🏛️ Ancient Roots

🎓 Pedagogical Foundations

🌟 Theatrical Innovators

The Modern Landscape 🏙️

💡 Key Figures and Forms

🌍 Global Reach

🚀 Evolution of Styles

The Heart of Comedy Improv 😂

⏱️ Shortform Improv

📚 Longform Improv

⭐ Notable Alumni

Beyond Laughter: Experimental Forms 🔬

🎭 Diverse Methodologies

🎨 Artistic Exploration

🗣️ Narrative and Physicality

Applying Improv Principles 💡

🏢 Business and Education

🧠 Personal Development

🤝 Interpersonal Skills

Improv in Media 🎬

🎥 Film and Television

📻 Radio and Digital

The Psychology of Improv 🧠

💡 Cognitive Processes

🧘 Altered States and Well-being

Core Principles and Process ⚙️

🤝 Collaboration: "Yes, and..."

✨ Establishing Reality

🎭 Character and Transformation

The Improv Community 👥

🏘️ Local and Global Networks

🌱 Growth and Development

Key Contributors ⭐

📚 Pioneers of Improv

🏆 Influential Troupes

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Journey Through Time

Ancient Roots

Pedagogical Foundations

Theatrical Innovators

The Modern Landscape

Key Figures and Forms

Global Reach

Evolution of Styles

The Heart of Comedy Improv

Shortform Improv

Longform Improv

Notable Alumni

Beyond Laughter: Experimental Forms

Diverse Methodologies

Artistic Exploration

Narrative and Physicality

Applying Improv Principles

Business and Education

Personal Development

Interpersonal Skills

Improv in Media

Film and Television

Radio and Digital

The Psychology of Improv

Cognitive Processes

Altered States and Well-being

Core Principles and Process

Collaboration: "Yes, and..."

Establishing Reality

Character and Transformation

The Improv Community

Local and Global Networks

Growth and Development

Key Contributors

Pioneers of Improv

Influential Troupes

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice