Breaking Bad

I’m Michael Bradt for The Bit Theater. I’m always working on becoming a better improviser, but the thing I struggle with the most is breaking on stage. I have been fortunate to perform with some of the funniest people I’ve ever met, and they say surprising, hilarious things on stage all the time. It’s human nature to laugh at it. Isn’t that the whole point of what we’re doing? But breaking the fourth wall by laughing on stage never serves the scene you’re in. If you’re struggling to not break on stage like I am, what I’ve found helps is to invest as hard as possible in the situation and the character. You find this situation funny as an improviser, but I doubt your character finds this funny. And if they do, then it’s okay to laugh. Invest fuller in what your character is feeling, and it should help you reduce how much you’re breaking on stage. That’s your improv tip for the day. If you have a rehearsal, class, audition, or show tonight, break a leg, and I will see you next time.