About Improv Rules

Series Summary

Improvisational theatre is a form of theatre in which the actors use improvisational acting techniques to perform spontaneously. Actors typically use audience suggestions to guide the performance as they create dialogue, setting, and plot extemporaneously. Many improvisational actors also work as scripted actors, and "improv" techniques are often taught in standard acting classes. The basic skills of listening, clarity, confidence, and performing instinctively and spontaneously are considered important skills for actors to develop.

Rules in improv? Isn't that almost an oxymoron? Whether they are unspoken rules or rules that simply must be followed in improv, there do exist some basic structural rules that will head improv beginners. In this free video series, an improv teacher will explain the rules and structure of improv, from the basics and the "yes, and" rule to explaining what blocking is, as well as giving and taking. You'll learn how to work in a structured space, the importance of asking questions, and much more. In addition to this expert advice, you'll see a demonstration of a short improv scene to help beginners understand how the rules apply and come together. Improve your improv skills today!

Video Transcript

"JAYNE ENTWISTLE: Hi. I'm Jayne Entwistle with ExpertVillage.com, and I'm an expert improviser. I run a professional comedy improv troupe in San Francisco California called "Big City Improv.com." They perform every Friday night at the Shelton Theatre. I currently live in Los Angeles where I'm a professional voice actress and actor. I strongly believe in improv as a skill for all actors to have. But I also believe that anyone can do improv, and it's a great way to play and just be light in your life. You can check me out at www.thejayneshow.com, that's J-A-Y-N-E. ANDREW STUBBLEFIELD: And I'm Andrew Stubblefield. I've been doing improv for 10 years. I started my own improv league in college, the BS Players, that's at Humboldt State University. I also, currently in part of the ComedySportz L.A. Chapter of comedy sports, which is a world wide organization that does competitive team on team improv. ComedySportzla.com is the website if you want to check out more. And remember that "sportz" is spelled with a "z"."