Improv is spontaneous, unscripted team storytelling. It is not a competition or about making jokes or doing funny characters per se or even getting laughs. Those things can happen naturally from improv but are not what drives good improv.

In improvisation, you’re not trying to be funny. You’re trying to help your team tell a good story. You’re not trying to look good. You’re trying to make the others look good as the story unfolds.

Each improv game has its own unique character and challenge. Each player has different games they are good at, though being not great at a particular game can be harrowing fun!

Improv is about being open and responsive to what is happening now, while listening and supporting other players by making helpful “offers” to move the story along. It is about collaboration and following ideas as they appear. You don’t force- you follow your ears and imagination.

The vulnerability called for in improv is exhilarating and at times harrowing. But with the support of your team you can find your way through it to something amazing.

You learn your own kind of confidence in improv. You can’t help but learn a lot about yourself.  

Improv is not about “self,” it is about “group.” It’s not about safety, it’s about vulnerability and bravery. It’s not about getting attention or glory- the reward is shared. It’s not aiming for perfection but for honesty.

The intuitional skills you learn in improv can change your life. It can teach you fearlessness confidence and thoughtfulness. It will also make you a better actor, a better writer and may well help you in navigating your life in numerous ways.