improv

 

even though i'm right on the line between introvert and extrovert (a monastic soul who happens to like people) i took a class called "improv for introverts" at a local senior center.

it was so much fun!  it didn't even matter that i was, at 50, the youngest participant. (i also got invited to a rousing round of bingo in the main room, which i turned down because i know how intense it can get when taken that seriously).

what differences do i notice between stand-up comedy vs. improv?  while they definitely have elements in common, improv doesn't set out to be funny per se, it's the timing, skill, and interaction of the players that usually brings the laughs.  

and, while stand-up comedy is a one-person act, improv is definitely a team sport.

improv has so many applications to real life!  if you think of it, almost everything is improvisation, from each conversation we have with someone else (you don't know where it's going until you get there) to daily problem-solving, it's all about thinking on your feet.

the keys to good improv as well as life skills?  listening and a "we" approach.  instead of being pre-occupied with what we would say, we learned and practiced listening in order to set other members of the team up for success, to "yes/and" them with support during games and skits and to bring our best to the table in order not to leave them hanging.

a benefit of improv i didn't expect was getting out of my head and out of my own way.  i'm mostly always joyful but even i have some days that are better than others.  improv really boosted my mind and emotions in, not only healthy self-forgetfulness, but a rest for my analytical brain.  

if you've thought about taking a class, i'd encourage you to try it out!  i enjoyed the afternoon immensely (above are some books recommended by the teachers--who were hilarious, by the way). i'm hoping it gives me a boost to try out for community musical theater in 2025!