The word ‘improv’ comes from ‘improvisation’. In modern terms, ‘improv’ generally refers to a performance, usually with comedic elements, where the performers do not follow a set script. Instead they are asked to improvise scenes, lines and stories out of a variety of prompts, from charades-style ‘pick a card’ to having the audience shout out suggestions. Probably the most well-known improv show in recent history is Drew Carey’s Whose Line Is It Anyway?
Even for seasoned performers, improv can seem scary; with no lines to follow, and no-one to direct the action, the fear of being uninspired, of seeming lost and confused, especially before a live audience, can be daunting.
But improv can be liberating as well. Instead of following rigid rules and a script someone else wrote, in improv, an actor can be free to interpret or develop a scene in any way they choose. Talented performers like Robin Williams, for instance, have been known to improvise entire movie scenes, either diverting from the set script, or having been deliberately given only minimal direction and lines in order to allow them to do their magic. Some performers do their best work when improvising— a quick youtube search can show you exactly which scenes in your beloved movies were improvised.
If you’ve always wanted to see what improv looks and feels like live – and perhaps try it for yourself – Crane is happy to oblige! Join us 25 Sept for Slamprov! With Delta Force Improv, a mixed performance combining a traditional poetry slam and dramatic/comedic improv.
Who knows, you might find yourself becoming Singapore’s next improv superstar!