Improv Comedy Resource Page
Improv comedy or improvisational comedy involves comedians working without a net in that they make up their jokes in the situation. A number of different resources and ideas are covered under this topic.
History of Improv
The history dates back to the Commedia Dell�Arte, a comedy troupe performing that began in Italy around 1550. The performers worked together wearing adult costumes and setting up their own stages. They worked all around Italy and based their performances on a scenario provided by the audience. The troupe continued working for 200 years.
Improv then resurfaced thanks to Keith Johnstone who came up with the idea of Theatresports. This involved teams of comedians winning awards based on scores from a judging panel. In the 1920s Paul Sills started a comedy troupe at the University of Chicago. He used the basic ideas of the Commedia Dell�Arte and several years later formed Second City, an improv group that still exists. The use of television shows like Who�s Line is it Anyway? only helped improv keep growing.
Tips for Starting an Improv Group
Starting an improv group really relies on two different things. The first is having the right performers and people capable of improv. They must have comedic timing and skills because the focus is on coming up with ideas right off the top of the head. The troupe should also have chemistry, which the audience picks up on.
Improv troupes also need the right performance space. There are some groups working outside, but many prefer working indoors on the stage. When a troupe starts. They need a performance space and a place where people can watch them work. Many work on college campus because they have access to stages and rooms.
Various Improv Games
Improv games are a great way to warm up before a performance. They also teach beginners the basic about this type of comedy and how improv works.
Improv Books
These books are written by former and current performers. They deliver a clear and basic understanding of improv and what goes along with it.
Glossaries of Improv Terms
Similar to a dictionary or encyclopedia, these terms focus on words and phrases that improv comedians use frequently.
Further Reading
Improv is a fast paced and exciting field. Those lucky enough to take part can use the resources provided here as a way of gaining a better understanding of everything the topic entails. It doesn�t take a Batman costume to work in improv, but it does take a good sense of humor.
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