Another improv tip

An episode of the Critical Criticisms podcast, hosted by Deryk Schudy, titled "Another improv tip" was published on April 16, 2021 and runs 5 minutes.

April 16, 2021 ·5m · Critical Criticisms

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Summary

One of the funny things about taking improv classes is that they "teach us how to have fun."  It's a funny paradox - this idea of learning "the rules" of how to "make stuff up" but I think it's good for everyone.  Unless you have a keen analytical mind, you will probably benefit from having someone point out various tricks and tips for improvising.  Those with years in the industry have observed what works.  It's not that "negating" your partner(s) is wrong 100% of the time (some may argue it is) but to me, it's more that it doesn't increase our likelihood for enjoyment for everyone or increase our chances at an interesting and entertaining...or even enlightening moment.  By the numbers, negating your partner's reality is a hindrance to quality scene work in most cases.  Of course, I'm just speaking my own perspective here.  True, the best improvisers will roll with whatever you give them, even if it's a negation of you.  I'm not talking about exceptions; I'm talking about living by the rules.  Anyway, I share one of these tips in this entry.  It's something you can put into your mind before the session starts.

Episode Description

One of the funny things about taking improv classes is that they "teach us how to have fun." It's a funny paradox - this idea of learning "the rules" of how to "make stuff up" but I think it's good for everyone. Unless you have a keen analytical mind, you will probably benefit from having someone point out various tricks and tips for improvising. Those with years in the industry have observed what works. It's not that "negating" your partner(s) is wrong 100% of the time (some may argue it is) but to me, it's more that it doesn't increase our likelihood for enjoyment for everyone or increase our chances at an interesting and entertaining...or even enlightening moment. By the numbers, negating your partner's reality is a hindrance to quality scene work in most cases. Of course, I'm just speaking my own perspective here. True, the best improvisers will roll with whatever you give them, even if it's a negation of you. I'm not talking about exceptions; I'm talking about living by the rules. Anyway, I share one of these tips in this entry. It's something you can put into your mind before the session starts.