Sign up for improv, the skills developed can help in the rest of life

Did you know improv sessions have been going for almost eight years at New Era. Even in Covid they continued on Zoom.

“New Era Theatre at Wash Common is a delightful place and there are various areas we can use for Improv,” said organiser Neil Taylor.

“A friend asked ‘What is the point of Improvisation?’

“You wouldn’t ask a painter, a musician, a writer, what is the point and improv is similar; creative and fulfilling.”

A typical session might start with some simple vocal and movement routines, then some word games and perhaps mime, followed by more open ended activities. An opening sentence might be ‘Do you remember the time when…’ or ‘Do you mind if I say something….’. Your partner reacts, you quickly work out who you and your partner are and you are away on an adventure.

Adults have the same capacity as children for play and fun, he explains, but they often don’t give themselves permission to behave in that way.

“Improv gives you that permission. It gives the freedom to be in the moment, to say what’s on your mind, to reinvent yourself.”

It’s better not to plan, just be spontaneous. People might think that’s difficult but there are a number of techniques to help people to trust their instincts.

A helpful idea is ‘Jump and Justify’ - that is to say the first thing that comes into your head. People are amazed at how imaginative they can be in explaining or developing it afterwards.

“It’s inspiring to see the delight improvisers show when they are pleased with something they and their partner have created. Often they can’t wait to tell the rest of the group.

“You and your partner - that’s the essence of it.

“There is no audience, and it’s not acting; just two people listening and reacting to each other to create something truthful.”

The skills developed in improv can help in the rest of life; awareness of body language, feelings, careful listening and can create confidence.

As Jessica Pan, author of ’Sorry I’m Late, I Didn’t Want To Come: An Introvert’s Year of Living Dangerously’ wrote: ‘Free from my everyday self, I was discovering sides of my personality I had never known. I could feel my brain shifting as I became more creative, playful and animated.’

Improv sessions take place fortnightly at New Era Theatre, on Monday evenings from 7pm - 8pm.

They are free for theatre members and £3 (for theatre expenses) for non-members.

If you are interested in going along, contact Neil Taylor 07761061545 or neilmaggie14@gmail.com