A Better Philosophy of Improv
Buy a copy of “Yes, and…?” No! But… on Amazon or catch us at theatre conferences around Texas in-person for a discounted price!
ALSO: Want a huge repository of improv games and all the details on how to turn each of them into show-stopping successes? Check out ImproWISE also by Mike!
Improv has a terrible reputation …because most improv is absolutely terrible to watch. And yet, we’ve adhered to the same methods, the same teachings, the same philosophy ever since it was conceived. We’ve developed new games, but always expected the audience to think of improv differently even though we approached it from the same mindset.
At last, however, there’s an alternative to the traditional approach that also has a proven track record. Developed over 20 years of professional training and performance experience, this approach to improv will radically change the way you look at the art and how to practice improv. You’ll find things like:
- Why you need to develop an improv-first (vs a theatre-first) mindset
- Why “yes, and” might be the worst thing you ever teach your students
- How to ensure your players have an indomitable level of confidence on-stage
- Help players get out of being stuck in their own head …and stay out, permanently
- The three fundamentals that will guarantee that 100% of your scenes are riveting to the audience
- Best practices for show hosting and also approaching improv as a player
- …and much, much more!
Although the book is primarily written in a condensed format for experienced improv trainers and players, it has invaluable information and help for players at every level. Experienced trainers will have no problems using this philosophy to catapult brand-new players to new heights in record time. The focus is on short-form improv comedy, but the principles all apply equally well to long-form, dramatic, and experimental improv. There’s no fluff, no bragging, no wasting any time. The entire text is jam-packed with tons of useful tips and concepts that will fundamentally change the way you play and train. This is the smallest book with the biggest effect on your career as an improv performer.
From the same author as ImproWISE: How to think so you know what to say and other tips for the short-form improv performer.
About the Author
Mike Peterson has performed improv for over 20 years. He has both performed and trained across the country starting with ComedySportz in Eugene, OR (where he lost his heart to short-form improv) and probably not ending until about the same time he stops breathing. His teaching style has been described as clear, concise, and packed with tidbits that help flesh out the lesson from being simply “do it this way” to “if it’s done like this then here’s what gets smoother and what the audience receives.” He brings a wealth of experience not just in performing improv as a performer, but also hosting, coordinating the technical details of the performance (including sound design), being a dedicated host for shows, and even being a live musician on-stage for improv performances.