Why improv
Theatre?
Definition
Improv theatre (improtheater) is a type of theatre in which most of the performance is unplanned and unscripted, created spontaneously by the performers.
The dialogue, action, story, and characters are created collaboratively by the players as the improvisation unfolds in present time.
Source: Wikipedia
Origins
This genre has existed for centuries since the Greek tragedies themselves had only a story and characters, the texts performed being improvised by each troupe that performed them. Then we find it in the commedia dell'arte where, there too, only the stories exist as well as the characters.
Source: Wikipedia
Why improv theatre ?
The skills performers learn in improv — teamwork, collaboration, listening, communication, and the ability to adapt and problem-solve. Troupe members need to be in sync, building off ideas already introduced and then efficiently adding new twists. Most importantly, like all work teams, performers need to trust and support one another to be successful.
Source: The Harvard Gazette
Improv in Vienna lexicon
Show formats
Short Form scenes
Short scenes usually constructed from a predetermined game, structure, or idea and driven by an audience suggestion. Short forms are the most accessible for beginners.
Long Form scenes
A show in which short scenes are often interrelated by story, characters, or themes. The most famous one is the Harold. They usually last about 30min. Long form scenes are usually performed by intermediate imrpovisers.
Theatresport
Developed by director Keith Johnstone, the concept of Theatresports originated in Johnstone's observations of techniques used in professional wrestling to generate heat, or audience reaction. It si a performancewhich uses the format of a competition for dramatic effect
Styles of performance
Dramatic, narrative-based
Improv based on story telling techniques. In such performance, actor want to show real emotions, vulnerability. This type of performances aimes at connecting with the audience through empathy. This type of improv is mostly performed in Europe.
Comedy - American improv
Most of the modern improv are more or comedic although this aspect is not the main objective.
Pure improv comedy is mainly performed in the US and is based on the "game of the scene" principles, where finding the funny is more important than the narrative.
Musical improv
Piece of improvisation which combines narrative -based improv with improvised songs. This type of performance is supported by musicians improvising the melody.
For example the @showstopperthemusical
Safety in improv
Boundary
Improvisers spend a lot of time out of their comfort zone. But such commitment should never compromise personal safety. That´s why each players are encourage to highlight their own sensibilities (boundaries) when they appear and respect the ones of their partners.
Want to know more about it? Contact us, we have a safety training!
Safe space
A safe space is a process leading to a feeling amount participants that they can try out, show their vulnerability and fail without fearing of being hurt or judged. Holding a space is primordial for a leader to insure that the participants can freely improvise.
Want to know more about it? Contact us, we have a safety training!
What shall I expect from the international improv community Vienna?
The IICV offers high quality, safe, efficient acting, and improvisational theatre classes to a very affordable price.
Students are promised to join a solid community, be supported by highly qualified teachers and do shows at the end of the class.
Get support from the IICV community.
Get personalised feedbacks.
Meet passionate people driven by improvisation values.
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Improv quotes
Keith Johnstone
“Enjoy things even when you’re screwing up"
Paul Merton
"It’s not about what you say. It’s listening to what other people say. It’s about what you hear"
Amy Poehler
“No one looks stupid when they’re having fun”
Will Hines
“The right choice is often the brave choice”
Miles Devis
“In improvisation, there are no mistakes”