Improv
Welcome! You have reached the improv page of Je77. I've been doing improvisational theatre since 1993 [bio]. These pages are my reflections on improv and what I've learned along the way.
Features
- Scenic Archetypes: This is a plot-driven long-form improv method that I created. Scenic archetypes allow improvisers to perform an improvised play with a sophisticated plot.
- Directing Improv Workshops: I've been directing improv workshops for over a decade. Along the way, I've seen many people make (or fail to make) the transition from being a player to being a workshop director. This page is to help someone make the transition. Whenever I teach a workshop on directing, these are the topics I cover.
- Six Easy Steps to Becoming a Successful Improv Troupe: I've been to many improv shows and have seen improv troupes come and go. I synthesize across my experiences to fill you in on what makes for a (financially) successful improv troupe.
Other Articles
Festival Reflection
I've been to a few improv festivals. Improv festivals can be a great (fun) learning experience. I highly recommend going to one if you've never been. Occasionally, I like to reflect on the experience.
Games
These are some games I invented.
External Resources
Eggshell: improv plays
Eggshell is a type of improv-theatre built on the concept of "who is more able to produce the plays than the authors." Check out the two plays which have been made in this fashion:
Feedback
If you want to leave me a message, you can do so here. Tell me what you thought. Did you learn anything interesting? Did you disagree? Where, how?
I loved your site. I´m a improv actor in Brazil.
Thanks It´s a lot of information.
Thank you... information never hurt! Your workshops seem like a lot of fun :)
Los Angeles, CA
www.idvicious.com
this was a lot of help thanx!
I dont know man. I am researching for a book I am writing and came across your page. I think the books you reference are spot on, but had trouble with your definitions and explations of status, your overall thoughts on how to run a short form show, and the idea you have to allow the audience to dictate (hehe I said dictate) what type of material or at what level of "blue" is acceptable. I agree that alchol should be sold at shows and that it loosens them up, however I strongly disagree that the audience comes to be seen and that what happens on stage is secondary. I am in no way a "purest" of improv and am very experienced in performing, teaching, and directing improv and I can say in all confindence that the audience comes to the show to be entertained. The only true way to create a long runing show is by continiously putting up quality shows by talented people with a focus on production. Please excuse any speling mistakes as I am terrible typer and completely lost without my spellcheck.
Joe Tex
Hello to je77
I remember you doing improv when you went to GA tech -
My son Joshua Bardwell and I did the Saturday morning workshops a few times
I saw you perform at "Ca-fiends?" in buckhead - the Fountains were performing too.
I ACTUALLY REMEMBER your improv - you were a teeenage mutant ninja turtle!!!
Why am I writing?
It is soooooo coool to make this connection!
I am getting into improv and just did a random search!
So! good luck Jeff - or je77. Happy improving! Irene Bardwell- ireneitb1@yahoo.com
Hi Irene. Of course I remember you and your daughter. And Josh and I were in 4 Claps and LTT together for a long time.
To Joe Tex,
I think you are mistaken of the intent of Je77's article. He is making fun of popular long running troups in the Atlanta area (hell the entire United States). This is almost an article on what not to do, what is crap, and much more in a very sarcastic tone. I don't think he believes that art is impossible without these things but more that popular troups are guilty of them. DON'T DO WHAT THE ARTICLE SAYS. Is what the article is actually saying.