How to Practice Improvisation Alone and with Partners

Improv, or improvisational theatre, is an engaging and challenging art form that requires a mix of quick thinking, creativity, and engaging with others. However, many performers, even those with extensive experience, find themselves in situations where improvised scenes must be created alone or with limited partners. This can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies, it is entirely possible to improve one's skills even in isolation. From practicing with objects to copying physical mannerisms, this article explores various ways to practice improvisation, both alone and in partnership.

Improvisation Games and Exercises

Whether you are an experienced improviser or just starting out, there is always room for improvement. One of the most effective ways to hone your skills is by playing games and practicing exercises alone. There are numerous online resources where you can find games to practice your improv skills. For instance, the website The Situation Agency offers a wide range of games and exercises. These games can help you develop your storytelling, speed thinking, and rhyming abilities.

Making Improv a Part of Personal and Professional Development

Improv can go beyond just being a performance art and become a valuable tool for personal and professional development. One way to achieve this is by taking an online course focused on improv communication. For instance, the course offered by Ultraline Now focuses on using improv techniques in a business context, which can be incredibly beneficial for enhancing teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Catwalking and Physical Coping Techniques

A key aspect of improv is physicality. To practice on your own, you can pretend to be someone else. Copying others' physical mannerisms, such as their walk, idiosyncrasies, and air, can help you develop your physicality as a performer. Focus on their physicality, tone of voice, and facial expressions. Walk down the street or watch people on video to observe these details. Start to notice the variations in people's speech tones and try to mimic them.

Object Work and Physical Comedy

Another crucial aspect of improv is object work. Being able to play 3-dimensional characters in 3-dimensional relationships within 3-dimensional environments is essential. To deepen your skills, practice physical comedy and object work. Objects can be used to drive characters and scenes, helping you create more complex and engaging performances.

Improvised Scenes Without a Partner

While improv is primarily a collaborative art form, it is possible to practice alone. However, it's important to recognize that improvising scenes alone can be detrimental. This doesn't mean it's completely useless, but it should not be the sole focus of your practice. When working alone, focus on practicing the seeds of good improv scenes. These seeds can then be expanded in a real improv scene with a partner. Reading books is also an excellent way to get ideas and insights.

Improvisation Books and Resources

To get a better understanding of improv, reading books is highly recommended. Keith Johnstone's Impro is an excellent resource that provides a deep dive into the world of improvisation. Another valuable resource is Improv Mindset by Andrew McAii masters. Many improv troupes have online forums where you can share games and formats, further improving your skills. Additionally, working with experienced instructors like Jill Bernard can greatly enhance your understanding and practice of improv.

Exposure to Different Forms of Improv

Exposure to different forms of improv can also be incredibly beneficial. Watching improv in various formats can provide a wealth of ideas and techniques. Some fantastic improv groups to check out include Jet City Improv in Seattle, which the author has a bias towards and can be a great resource. They are highly recommended. The Seattle Festival of Improv Theater, happening from February 14 to 17, is also an exceptional opportunity to see improv in action in various forms and sizes.

Practicing Improv with Others

In addition to practicing alone, it is crucial to practice with others. Improv with friends, family, kids, neighbors, and even pets can be a fun and effective way to hone your skills. Try creating characters based on people you see on the street, both with and without an audience. Make sure to stay safe and friendly in this process.