This month we are travelling all the way (well metaphorically) to Amsterdam to learn all about the improv scene there! All months we will be chatting to easylaughs that offer comedy shows, improv and stand up classes and improv workshops, in English. Throughout out the month we are talking to each member of the team to find out more about them.
Player Profile: Jenny
Hello how long have you been improvising?
Hello! I’ve been improvising for six years and before that I did a lot of scripted theater.
How did you get into improv?
I was doing regular theater for a long time and wanted something different but also kind of the same, so I signed up for an improv course. I thought it would be easy coming from my experience, but it was not easy at all. At the end of the course I thought “I won’t rest until I get this thing” and I signed up for the second course. Then I never stopped.
What is your favourite style of improv and why?
I like both serious and comedy improv. I think I like to bring something serious to a comedy show and something funny to a serious show.
Who are your top 5 favourite improvisers and why?
My favourite improvisers are the shy ones who are on stage for the first time. The ones you see on the backline dying from nerves a little bit. They always have a point in the show where they realize how good it feels to have the attention from the audience and I love that moment.
What is your favourite warm up game?
Dubbed zip-zap-zop.
Favourite short form game?
A game I made up called the Shitty Director, where one player is actively trying to ruin the scenes with edits from the side – “Meanwhile, in Poland” or “500 years earlier” or “From the perspective of the tennis ball”. The players on stage have to try and keep the scene going.
What are the three top tips anyone has ever taught you in improv?
1. You know exactly what you’re doing (whether it is heart surgery or ballet)
2. If you are wondering whether you should edit you absolutely have to edit the scene
3. If you don’t know what to do, make eye contact
What are some of your favourite new acts you have come across this year and why?
The Maydays. I was blown away by their Tim Burton-style musical. It was improv that was good in a way that doesn’t make you jealous, it makes you want to join.
How would you describe your personal sort of improv?
Supportive and fast-paced with an element of surprise.
Describe each easylaughs member in one word
Trista – energetic
Nicole – surefire
Ben – proficient
Steven – shapeshifter
Marith – badass
Huib – sensitive
Ashley – smart
