Improvisation workshop

What is the course about?

You will discover how to improvise dramatically, and be able to participate in an end of term public performance. Working in a safe and supportive atmosphere, you will practice the key techniques needed for performing effective improvisations. You will improve spontaneity, the ability to collaborate truthfully with fellow players of all levels of experience and gain the ability to listen deeply and fill silences with well-acted behaviour. Ideal for those wanting to improve their improvisation and develop more range in their work. For those participating in the performance, this will take place on Thurs 18 July in our in-house John Lyons Theatre for an invited audience. Further details will be provided by your tutor in class, including an additional rehearsal date ahead of the performance for those participating.

Please note there is no class on either 6 or 27 May due to the Bank Holidays.

What will we cover?

•Essential improvisation skills such as listening, losing, accepting and working spontaneously with others.
•Creating character and relationships from the truth of the moment.
•Developing situations into story structure
•Meisner repetition
•Application of Meisner emotional reading into improvisation
•Become aware of audience expectations when crafting stories.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

•Confidently participate in dramatic improvised scenes
•Work openly with other players
•Confidently contribute to the development of improvised scenes and stories
•Demonstrate how an improvised play may form from nothing.
•(For those willing and able to) perform initial scenes of an improvised play in front of an audience.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is open to all. It is ideal for those who wish to build confidence, develop openness and take risk in their playing. To participate you will need the ability to work cooperatively with others, be prepared to work for truth, vulnerability, and explore the emotional/psychological elements of the work. Additionally you will need to be able to
• Listen and respond to instructions and feedback.
• Communicate clearly in discussion and drama practice.
• Give and receive constructive feedback.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

As part of a whole group, in pairs and small groups, sometimes alone.

HEALTH CHECK
You may or may not be asked to participate in rigorous activity from time to time. Please consider whether you could do this, if you are in any doubt consult a medical practitioner.

As part of the course content, your tutor may record your image for initial and ongoing assessment purposes. You are entitled to decline to participate in the recording of your image.

As part of the course content, your tutor may record your image for initial and ongoing assessment purposes. You are entitled to decline to participate in the recording of your image.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Comfortable clothing for freedom of movement should be worn. Soft shoes.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Enrol onto the next improv course at City Lit. Talk to your tutor who will advise you. Any general acting and or physical skills class will help you to grow as a performer.
General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday from 12:00 – 19:00.
See the course guide for term dates and further details.
General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday from 12:00 – 19:00.
See the course guide for term dates and further details.