Learning Improv Can Make You a Better Actor (and a Funnier Person)
If you’re an actor who wants to improve your skills, boost your confidence, and land more auditions, you might want to consider taking an improv class. As you may be aware, improv is a form of live theater in which all aspects of the performance are made up on the spot. No prewritten characters and backstories, no script, no rehearsal, no problem!
There is a reason that improvisers are being cast more and more often. They are chameleons who can quickly snap into playing any part, from drama to pratfalls.
Improv is not only fun and entertaining, but also beneficial for actors in many ways. Here are some of the reasons why—if you’re an actor—you should give improv a try:
You’ll learn how to think on your feet.
One of the most important skills for an actor is the ability to adapt to any situation and react accordingly. Whether you’re auditioning for a role, performing on stage, or working on set, you never know what might happen or what might be asked of you. Improv teaches you how to be flexible, creative, and spontaneous. You’ll learn how to say yes to any offer, how to build on your partner’s ideas, and how to deal with unexpected challenges. You’ll also learn how to handle mistakes and failures with grace and humor.
You’ll gain confidence and become more comfortable with acting (and public speaking, for that matter).
Many actors struggle with stage fright, self-doubt, or anxiety when performing in front of an audience. Improv can help you overcome these fears by providing a safe and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely and have fun. Improv also helps you develop a positive attitude and a sense of humor about yourself and your work. You’ll learn how to embrace your uniqueness, trust your instincts, and celebrate your successes. Plus, improv will teach you perhaps the most important lesson of all: THE WORLD WILL NOT END IF YOU FAIL.
You’ll learn how to collaborate better with others.
Acting is not a solo activity. It requires teamwork and communication. Improv is all about working together with your fellow performers to create something out of nothing. You’ll learn how to listen actively, respect each other’s choices, and support each other’s goals. You’ll also learn how to give and receive constructive feedback, how to deal with conflicts, and how to compromise. Improv can help you build rapport and chemistry with your scene partners, as well as make new friends and connections.
You’ll enhance your creativity.
Actors who write have a deeper appreciation for the craft, can write themselves into parts, and often find a lot more success. The difference between the hilarious Tina Fey and Amy Poehler and the hilarious Rachel Dratch is that Fey and Poehler are prolific writers. It has landed them a ton of success, and it has put them into the driver’s seat for several of their own projects. Improv helps flex that creative muscle, as you’re constantly creating new content in the moment.
You’ll have a lot of fun in a new community!
Last but not least, improv is a great way to have fun and enjoy yourself. Improv is not about being perfect or being funny. It’s about being present and being yourself. Improv allows you to explore different characters, scenarios, emotions, and genres. You’ll get to play games, tell stories, make jokes, and laugh a lot. Improv can also help you relieve stress, boost your mood, and unleash your creativity.
So what are you waiting for? Sign up for an improv class today and see for yourself how improv can make you a better actor (and a funnier person)!