Improvisational Comedy

Introduction

Improvisational comedy, often referred to as improv, is a form of live theatre in which most or all of what is performed is created spontaneously by the performers, without a script. This art form is characterized by its reliance on the performers' ability to create dialogue, action, story, and characters in real-time, often based on audience suggestions. Improv can be performed in various settings, including comedy clubs, theatres, and even corporate events, and it has gained popularity for its unpredictability and the unique skills it demands from performers.

History of Improvisational Comedy

Improvisational comedy has deep historical roots, tracing back to ancient times. Early forms of improvisation can be found in the Commedia dell'arte, a form of theatre that originated in Italy in the 16th century. Commedia dell'arte relied heavily on stock characters and scenarios, but much of the dialogue and action was improvised by the actors.

In the 20th century, improv began to take on a more structured form. One of the key figures in the development of modern improvisational theatre was Viola Spolin, whose work in the 1940s and 1950s laid the foundation for many of the techniques used in improv today. Spolin's book, "Improvisation for the Theater," introduced a series of games and exercises designed to help actors develop their improvisational skills.

The Second City, founded in Chicago in 1959, played a crucial role in popularizing improv comedy in the United States. Many famous comedians, including John Belushi, Bill Murray, and Tina Fey, got their start at The Second City. The success of The Second City led to the establishment of other improv theatres and schools, such as the Groundlings in Los Angeles and the Upright Citizens Brigade in New York City.

Techniques and Principles

Improvisational comedy relies on several key techniques and principles that guide performers in creating spontaneous and engaging scenes. Some of the most important techniques include:

"Yes, And"

The "Yes, And" principle is one of the foundational rules of improv. It involves accepting whatever your scene partner has said ("Yes") and then adding to it ("And"). This principle helps to build scenes collaboratively and keeps the action moving forward. For example, if one performer says, "We're on a spaceship," the other performer should accept that reality and add to it, such as by saying, "Yes, and we're about to land on Mars."

Listening and Reacting

Effective improvisation requires active listening and genuine reactions. Performers must pay close attention to their scene partners and respond in a way that feels natural and supports the scene. This helps to create a sense of authenticity and keeps the audience engaged.

Character and Relationship

Creating strong, believable characters and relationships is essential in improv. Performers must quickly establish who they are, what their relationship is to each other, and what they want. This helps to ground the scene and provides a framework for the action.

Game of the Scene

The "game of the scene" refers to the central comedic idea or pattern that emerges during an improv scene. Performers identify the game and then heighten it by exploring variations and building on the initial idea. This technique helps to create a sense of structure and keeps the audience laughing.

Space Work

Space work, or pantomime, involves using imaginary objects and environments to create a sense of place and action. Performers must be consistent and detailed in their space work to make the scene believable. For example, if a performer mimes opening a door, they should remember where the door is and interact with it consistently throughout the scene.

Forms of Improvisational Comedy

Improvisational comedy can take many different forms, each with its own unique structure and style. Some of the most common forms include:

Short-Form Improv

Short-form improv consists of brief, self-contained scenes or games, often based on audience suggestions. These scenes typically last only a few minutes and are designed to be fast-paced and highly entertaining. Examples of short-form improv include the games played on the television show Whose Line Is It Anyway?.

Long-Form Improv

Long-form improv involves creating longer, more complex scenes and narratives. Performers may develop a single story over the course of an entire show, or they may create a series of interconnected scenes. One of the most well-known long-form improv structures is the Harold, which was developed by Del Close and Charna Halpern at the ImprovOlympic (now iO) in Chicago.

Musical Improv

Musical improv combines improvisational comedy with spontaneous singing and musical accompaniment. Performers create songs and musical scenes on the spot, often incorporating audience suggestions. This form of improv requires a high level of skill and coordination, as performers must be able to sing, rhyme, and create melodies in real-time.

Improvised Shakespeare

Improvised Shakespeare involves creating scenes or entire plays in the style of William Shakespeare. Performers use Shakespearean language, themes, and structures to create humorous and often absurd scenes. This form of improv requires a deep understanding of Shakespeare's works and a strong command of the language.

Training and Education

Improvisational comedy requires a unique set of skills that can be developed through training and practice. Many improv theatres and schools offer classes and workshops to help performers hone their craft. Some of the key areas of focus in improv training include:

Improv Games and Exercises

Improv games and exercises are designed to develop specific skills, such as quick thinking, collaboration, and character work. These activities often involve playful and creative challenges that help performers build their improvisational muscles. Examples of common improv games include "Zip, Zap, Zop," "Freeze Tag," and "The Alphabet Game."

Scene Work

Scene work involves practicing and performing improvised scenes with a focus on developing strong characters, relationships, and narratives. Performers work on creating believable and engaging scenes through active listening, reacting, and building on their scene partners' ideas.

Performance Techniques

Performance techniques in improv include stage presence, physicality, and vocal projection. Performers learn how to use their bodies and voices effectively to create dynamic and engaging scenes. This training helps performers to be more confident and expressive on stage.

Advanced Forms and Styles

Advanced improv training often includes exploring different forms and styles of improv, such as long-form, musical improv, and genre-based improv. Performers learn how to adapt their skills to different formats and develop a deeper understanding of the art form.

Applications of Improvisational Comedy

Improvisational comedy has a wide range of applications beyond the stage. Some of the key areas where improv skills are utilized include:

Corporate Training

Many companies use improv training as a tool for team building, communication, and creativity. Improv exercises can help employees develop better listening skills, think more creatively, and collaborate more effectively. Corporate improv workshops often focus on building trust, improving problem-solving abilities, and fostering a positive work environment.

Education

Improv techniques are used in educational settings to enhance learning and engagement. Teachers use improv games and activities to help students develop critical thinking, creativity, and social skills. Improv can also be used as a tool for teaching subjects such as literature, history, and language arts.

Therapy

Improvisational comedy is used in therapeutic settings to help individuals develop social skills, build confidence, and express emotions. Improv therapy can be particularly beneficial for individuals with social anxiety, autism, and other conditions that affect communication and social interaction. The playful and supportive nature of improv provides a safe space for individuals to explore and grow.

Entertainment

Improv is a popular form of entertainment, with many improv troupes and shows attracting large audiences. Improv comedy shows are often interactive, with performers incorporating audience suggestions and creating a unique experience for each performance. Television shows like "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" and "Wild 'N Out" have brought improv comedy to a wider audience and showcased the talents of improvisers.

Notable Improvisational Comedy Groups

Several improv groups have made significant contributions to the art form and have become well-known in the comedy world. Some of the most notable improv groups include:

The Second City

Founded in Chicago in 1959, The Second City is one of the most influential improv theatres in the world. The theatre has produced many famous comedians and has been a training ground for performers who have gone on to successful careers in television, film, and theatre.

The Groundlings

The Groundlings, based in Los Angeles, is another prominent improv theatre and school. Founded in 1974, The Groundlings has been the starting point for many well-known comedians, including Will Ferrell, Kristen Wiig, and Melissa McCarthy. The theatre is known for its rigorous training program and its focus on character-based comedy.

Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB)

The Upright Citizens Brigade, founded by Amy Poehler, Matt Besser, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh, has become a major force in the improv world. With theatres and training centers in New York City and Los Angeles, UCB has produced many successful comedians and has popularized long-form improv through its signature show, "Asssscat."

ImprovOlympic (iO)

ImprovOlympic, now known as iO, was founded by Del Close and Charna Halpern in Chicago. iO is known for its focus on long-form improv and for developing the Harold, a long-form structure that has become a staple of improv comedy. Many famous comedians, including Chris Farley, Mike Myers, and Stephen Colbert, have trained at iO.

The Future of Improvisational Comedy

Improvisational comedy continues to evolve and grow, with new forms and styles emerging all the time. The rise of digital media has also had an impact on improv, with performers using platforms like YouTube and TikTok to share their work and reach new audiences. Virtual improv shows and online classes have become more common, allowing performers and students to connect and collaborate from anywhere in the world.

As improv continues to gain popularity, it is likely that we will see even more innovation and experimentation in the art form. The principles of improv—collaboration, creativity, and spontaneity—will continue to inspire performers and audiences alike.