I was watching the Pioneer Woman’s television show the other day and was getting irritated that all the cooking was mainly done with shortcuts. Using pre-cooked chicken, tin vegetables, pre-made spice mix and pre-made dough. As someone who is interested in cooking, it really annoyed me. For someone who is into writing about improv, it got me thinking about an article that was relevant to the art form.

What is wrong with easy improv?

So, don’t get me wrong watching clever improv that is complex is a lot of fun but the basics can be something that can make a fantastic show. There are reasons why shows like Who Is It Anyway and the Comedy Store Players have been around for so long. They stick to the simple rules of improv to appeal to the masses.

Sometimes, when we plan a show, it can go over the top and become very complicated. You sometimes need to take a step back and go back to basics. Think about the simplicity improv used to be when you first started and then try and go back to it.

Maybe in rehearsals play the basic short form games, do simple warm up exercises to get you into the same frame of mind. When you do a show, try and focus on the simplicity of improv – see the differences to your more complex ideas and see how you can implement and work with both.

Thank you again for all your support in reading and engaging with the website.

If you want to help support the website then you can! You can buy Holly a cup of tea (and a biscuit!)