Whilst this may not be directly focussed on improv, I think that characters are an important part of it – this is why I am starting a new feature called Character Building.
I came up with this idea the other day when I was watching Brooklyn 99 and some of the characters were so fascinating when I thought about it, I decided that character analysis could be interesting.
Obviously, improv is made up on the spot but looking at other characters can create inspiration for ideas you can take away to help develop your own personas in the future.
Today we are looking at a character that is fantastic for uniqueness.
This Week’s Character – Cameron Tucker
Why This character?
Cam is a fantastic character in Modern Family – he creates so much comedy through his personality, his dramatic outbursts and his excitement. There is so much to love about this character and so much you can learn from him for improv.
Personality traits that are great
- The drama is something that creates so much comedy – when Cam finds something incredibly shocking he will start doing screaming and sometimes a dramatic walk out of shot which is very funny.
- Cam is not afraid of being centre of attention. He will walk into a room and own it anyway that he can. Whether that is singing, dancing or being the loudest in the room.
- Cam is an incredibly bubbly character that brings so much energy to a scene.
- He is a huge fan of clowns and clowning which his other family members do not like but he still owns the hobby like everyone loves it.
What we can learn for Improv Characters?
- Owning the stage can be a good thing. Whilst you need to be respectful to fellow players, having a strong character can work really well and create a great energy on stage that others can play into it as well.
- If your character has an unique skill or trait, own it. It may be the most random thing but if you really throw yourself into it then it will look really good on stage.
- Embrace Cam’s energy and be confident in your improv. It can be so easy to doubt yourself when performing but don’t, embrace it!
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