3 EASY STEPS TO IMPROVE YOUR LONG FORM IMPROV

Long form Improv is acting without a script. Typically teams take a suggestion from the audience and perform a 25-30 minute show. Long form is different than short form improv games. Taking classes and practicing with a coach is one way to make your improv stronger. Utilizing the tips below is another way.

I’m paraphrasing Mick Napier’s Scene from the Inside Out. Do yourself a favor and read it and thank me later.

Step 1.

Declare a strong point of view at the top of the scene. Either with words “Lemmings are hilarious.” Or a strong emotional point of view—I’ll be sad or in response to your partner or I’ll laugh at whatever my scene partners says. It could literally be anything. Make a strong choice right at the top to prevent you from getting in your head.

Step 2.

Check out what you did. Literally. Oh, I just said “Lemmings are hilarious.” And giggled afterward. Notice not only what you said or did but How you did it. The how is everything in improv.

Step 3.

Listen to what your scene partner says and filter all your responses through your deal or your gig. So respond through what you have created. For instance, if you picked sad, you could win the lottery but still be sad you did. Scene partner says “You won the freaking lottery.” You say “Oh really, I guess I’ll have to pay more taxes.” Sigh

Utilizing these 3 steps will do wonders for your improv. Work with me to build on these skills and improve your improv.