Now This Improv

Improv is much more than a fun experience; it can also help you learn a surprising number of important life lessons. By embracing all of what improve has to offer, you stand to gain much more than you may initially expect. If you are wondering what you may discover along the way, here’s a look at six things that improv taught me.

1. Don’t Let a Misstep Hold You Back

Improv is an organic form of comedy. It’s unpredictable and can go in nearly every direction. While that can be incredibly freeing, the lack of guidelines can also lead to some slip-ups. You might freeze up on stage or misinterpret what one of your co-performers is doing. Trips and falls can happen. Props may break. You just never know.

But, even if something goes incredibly wrong, the show must go on. Improv teaches you to make sure a misstep doesn’t hold you back; that you can keep going even when something doesn’t go right. That mistake isn’t the end of the world. That’s as true for improv as it is for life.

2. The Ability to Build on an Idea is Valuable

Many times, when it comes to a person’s professional life, people assume that only new ideas are valuable. However, that isn’t true.

In improv, you’re taught to use the “yes and” approach. It involves accepting everything about the scene and then trying to build upon it. Take what you have and try to make it a bit better, funnier, or more engaging.

That same concept can serve you well in your career, too. If you can take an idea and elevate it, that’s a valuable skill. The ability to enhance or adjust an idea can lead to interesting innovations, so don’t assume that you have to come up with something from scratch, as that isn’t always necessary.

3. Leave Room for Spontaneity

Improv is anything but planned. Usually, you aren’t given much in the way of guidance. Instead, you receive only a basic concept or two and then are left to navigate the situation as it shifts and moves organically. You have to adapt to other performers who may take things in an entirely different direction. If you don’t embrace being spontaneous, you’ll struggle.

While that level of spontaneity might not work in every aspect of your life, leaving some space for it is a smart move. Have a plan, but don’t be so committed to it that you can’t change course should the situation dictate. Be ready to roll with the punches. That way, rigidity won’t hold you back or leave you frustrated when things didn’t go exactly how you pictured.

4. Active Listening Is Your Friend

When you are doing improv, you never know what the other performers will say. Conversations can go in literally any direction. That means you can’t spend time preparing a response or consider what you’ll say down the line. Instead, you have to be an engaged and active listener. Otherwise, you won’t be able to take in the scene as it’s unfolding and choose an appropriate course.

Active listening can serve you well in any arena of your life. It ensures that you focus on what the other person is sharing. You aren’t getting caught up in preparing what you are going to say next, a conversational approach that can cause you to miss critical details. Instead, you are focused, taking everything in before you reply.

When you use that approach, your contributions are more meaningful and relevant. Plus, it reduces the odds of misunderstandings or coming across like you weren’t listening. Ultimately, it can make you a better conversationalist, which, in turn, can make you a better coworker, manager, spouse, parent, friend, or support system member.

5. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Improv is rarely a solo venture. Instead, it’s all about a group of people coming together to make an audience laugh. They have to work together, play off of one another, and do their best to make sure that everyone shines. When they focus on being the best group they can be, that’s when the magic happens.

Often, life also relies on teamwork. It’s coworkers solving problems as a group, spouses keeping a household running together, and any other instance where there is more than one person involved. Really, teamwork does make the dream work in so many areas of life, so it’s an important skill to develop.

6. Leading and Following Are Both Important

When an improv troupe hits the stage, there often isn’t a defined leader. As a scene unfolds, each person has to adjust their role as needed. It requires a significant amount of agility, as the person who is controlling the direction of a scene can shift at any moment. Not only do performers need to be ready to lead, but they also have to be prepared to follow.

Professionally, that ability is also value. You need to recognize your moments to step up and shine, but you also need to step back when someone else should have control. Sometimes you’ll be the person with vision, drive, or the right kind of expertise, but sometimes you won’t, and that’s okay. Understanding where you fit in and embracing that place is incredibly beneficial, as it will help the group excel, and that’s what really matters.

Improv theatres are the premier destinations for improvisational comedy. While some comedy clubs have improv nights, certain ones are specifically known for improv.

By heading to a full-fledged improv theatre, you can enjoy some of the best performances around. Both in-house troupes and traveling groups may make their way to the venues, allowing the locations to host more shows. Plus, some of the venues play a big role in improv’s history, making a trip to those theatres particularly meaningful for aspiring comics or fans of the genre.

If you want to experience some amazing shows, here’s what you need to know.

What to Expect at an Improv Theatre

When you catch a show at an improv theatre, you are going to have an incredibly unique experience. Since the comedy is unscripted, you can’t anticipate what may happen. Almost anything goes, and no two performances are alike.

Additionally, while the term “theatre” sounds incredibly formal, most of the venues aren’t. While some are fairly large, they tend to feel relaxed and comfortable. Additionally, the décor is usually a bit understated. Since improv performances can go nearly anywhere, they often don’t have elaborate sets, as those may limit the possibilities. The only exception may be for themed shows.

No matter which venue you choose, the focus is always on fun and embracing the unexpected. If you are looking for a great improv theatre, here are six you need to check out.

6 Incredible Improv Theatres

1. Bad Dog Theatre – Toronto, Canada

Home to the longest-running improv show in Toronto, the Bad Dog Theatre offers professional-level programming featuring in-house troupes. Unscripted comedy has been part of the venue’s culture for more than three decades, offering engaging experiences to people of all ages.

Since the theatre is a bit smaller, the setting feels especially intimate, which is great for audience involvement. The Bad Dog Theatre also offers classes, so you can sign up if you want to enhance your improv skills and learn from pros.

2. iO Theater – Chicago, Illinois

Built by improv legend Del Close and his founding partner Charna Halpern, the iO Theater is a must-visit for improv fans. Stars like Amy Poehler and Seth Meyers have spent time performing at iO early in their careers. Plus, those interested in learning the craft flock to the theater for lessons.

In total, the iO Theater has four performance spaces, so improv performances are regular occurrences. To make it even better, the lobby bar is incredibly inviting, so it’s a great break to kick back and have a drink even if you aren’t seeing a show.

3. Free Association – London, England

If you find yourself in London, make the trip over to Free Association. The venue hosts over 300 shows a year, so catching a show is pretty easy. There are five in-house teams that perform as well as two graduate teams, all of whom took part in the Free Association’s training program.

During the shows, you might see seasoned performers along with newcomers, which can make things interesting. Plus, the venue hosts competitive events, known as Cage Matches, that let teams battle for the crown.

4. The Hollywood Improv – Hollywood, California

A staple in the improv and standup scene, some consider the Hollywood Improv to be one of the best-known comedy clubs in the entire world. While the chain originates in New York, the Hollywood club is the flagship location.

Improv performers regularly appear, as well as a range of standup comedians. Stars like Richard Pryor, Andy Kaufman, and Ellen DeGeneres have all graced the Hollywood Improv’s stage over its half a century of existence.

5. Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre – New York, New York

If you’re looking for improv in New York City, look no further than the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. It’s the most popular improv destination in the city. Plus, it attracts some of comedy’s most famous performers, as well as celebrities looking to try their hand at improv.

It’s also got a star-studded history. Amy Poehler co-founded the Upright Citizens Brigade. Plus, comedy legends like Zach Woods, Ilana Glazer, Abbi Jacobson, and a slew of Saturday Night Live cast members are alums.

6. The Second City – Chicago, Illinois

Improv comedy ended up on the map thanks to The Second City. Along with launching the careers of famed comics like Tina Fey, Keegan-Michael Key, Stephen Colbert, Chris Farley, Steve Carell, and Amy Sedaris, it also offers classes to aspiring improv performers.

You’ll find improv shows seven nights a week, spread across the three available stages. It’s a genuine staple of the Chicago comedy community. If you want to see where it all began, make sure to check The Second City out. Just don’t forget to buy tickets in advance, as they do regularly sell out.

Improv comedy doesn’t have an official “uniform.” There isn’t an outfit that all performers have to wear. Some teams prefer to keep it simple while others make sure their attire aligns with a specific theme, usually related to the main topic of their shows. While an individual troupe may have strict rules, not all of them do. Additionally, when it comes to practices or classes, you might not receive any guidance at all.

Luckily, while there aren’t any hard and fast rules about how to dress for improv, certain guidelines typically apply. Here’s a look at some of the dos and don’ts for improv attire.

Do Aim for Comfort and Movement

As an improv performer, you never know where a scene may take you. When you pick an outfit, opt for something that is comfortable to wear. Avoid itchy materials that could cause you to unconsciously scratch or lose focus because of the sensation. Also, bypass attire that’s too small or tight. Otherwise, you might be tugging at your clothes during the performance to make sure you don’t accidentally expose skin you don’t want showing.

Similarly, choose clothing that lets you move around with ease. You don’t want to be held back because your shirt prevents you from lifting your arms over your head, or your pants are too tight or lack the stretch necessary for jumping, kicking, crawling, or climbing. It’s also wise to avoid clothing that doesn’t pass the “bending over” test. After all, no one (not you, not the team, not the audience) wants any surprise butt crack.

Before you settle on your outfit, spend some time in it. See if any part of your clothing binds you up physically or doesn’t feel good. Do some basic tests by running, jumping, leaping, squatting, crawling, and bending over. That way, you can choose attire that won’t hinder your performance and keeps you appropriately covered.

Don’t Choose Anything Too Distracting

When you’re choosing improv attire, you don’t want your clothes to serve as a distraction. Novelty t-shirts with bold graphics or sarcastic sayings might be fine for a casual outing. But, when you’re on stage, the audience may spend more time focusing on your shirt than on your performance, and that’s not a good outcome.

Additionally, it’s important for the improv team to look cohesive. Even if an outfit wouldn’t be considered overly flashy from a personal style perspective, if it makes you stick out like a sore thumb from your co-performers, you should reel in it. Similarly, if everyone else is dressing incredibly colorfully or fancy, then you should, as well. Otherwise, your subdued approach may be distracting.

When in doubt, simple clothing that is plain but nice can be the way to go. Solid colored shirts and slacks are rarely a miss, especially if everyone on the team agrees on a color scheme in advance. Just make sure you choose colors that allow you to stand out from the backdrop.

Do Get Some Cross-Fit Shoes

Another vital piece of attire when it comes to moving around is your shoes. Since improv could take you anywhere, you need supportive shoes that will allow you to do just about any movement imaginable. Cross-Fit shoes are designed for high-intensity activity and bouncing around in nearly any direction, making them an ideal choice.

With Cross-Fit shoes, you get a ton of support. Plus, there are versions with features designed for nearly every foot shape as well. Do you have wider feet? Look for a wide size to give your feet space. Have high arches? You can find versions with amazing arch support.

Plus, you can get them in styles that aren’t too vibrant or distracting. This allows them to cohesively blend with the rest of your outfit.

Don’t Be Careless with Accessories

When you’re going improv, accessories aren’t always your best friend. While wearing a belt can be a smart move, particularly since some waistbands on pants can stretch with wear, other items might not be a great idea.

Dangly earrings can get caught in hair or clothing, including that of other performers. Imagine going in for a hug during a scene only to discover that one team member’s earring is wrapped up in the other’s hair. Now, you’re stuck together and have to find a way out without ruining the moment. That’s a challenge most people would rather avoid.

Bangle bracelets are not always a great choice either. With one big hand gesture, you could fling one across the stage or into the audience. Playing that off might not be easy.

Smartwatches are similarly a no-go. If you forget to mute notifications, the next thing you know, you are contending with a random sound or flashing icons that could disrupt from your scene. That’s just no good.

While you don’t have to be free of all accessories, limiting them is generally a good idea. If it isn’t necessary, consider skipping it. Otherwise, you might introduce something into a scene that you didn’t intend.

Do Plan as a Team

If you are performing with an improv troupe, then it’s smart to coordinate your attire. Now, this doesn’t mean that everyone has to dress in the exact same outfit. Instead, it’s about cohesion, creating an overall look that looks reasonably put together.

In some cases, the head of the team will dictate the rules. In others, it’s a joint decision. Regardless, spending some time planning your improv clothing as a team should be part of your pre-performance ritual. That way, you can send the right message and look like a group of seasoned performers.

Possibly one of the most entertaining (and certainly one of the least predictable) genres in television is improv comedies. Whether the show is focused solely on improv or the series is at least partially unscripted, giving the stars a chance to come up with their lines on the fly, these comedies bring something special to the table.

A surprising number of popular shows at least include an aspect of improv, while some are known for this form of comedy specifically. Here is a look at some of the best TV shows featuring improv.

Whose Line Is It Anyway?

Possibly the most quintessential example of improv television is Whose Line Is It Anyway? Featuring the likes of Ryan Stiles and Colin Mochrie, and hosted by Drew Carey in the US version, comedians are put to the test in each and every episode. The premise focuses on giving the show participants different prompts and challenges, and they have to rely on their wits and improv chops to entertain the audience.

Drew Carey’s Improv-A-Ganza

A show with a fairly short run, Drew Carey’s Improv-A-Ganza came after the departure of Whose Line Is It Anyway? and many consider it a natural successor to the popular improv show. Performers improvised sketches using audience suggestions, featuring three or four improv challenges per episode.

Drew Carey’s Green Screen Show

Drew Carey’s Green Screen Show was another post-Whose Line series that was improv focused. However, this series relied heavily on performers hopping in front of a green screen and having to deal with the unexpected, not unlike the “Newsflash” challenge on Whose Line.

Curb Your Enthusiasm

Curb Your Enthusiasm is a semi-unscripted comedy series that relied on improv a lot. While the plots were outlined, much of the dialogue was improvised in the moment, creating some hilarious and memorable moments that no one could have anticipated.

The League

The League is another example of and partially unscripted series. IT focuses on a fantasy football league and the relationships between the characters. While it isn’t solely improv, many of the stars got a degree of freedom as they delivered their lines.

Wild N’ Out

A sketch comedy and improv series, Wild N’ Out followed Nick Cannon as he tried to find new and up-and-coming comedy stars. Teams of comedians duked it out playing a series of improv games and battling head to head during the “WildStyle” round, which featured freestyle raps.

Thank God You’re Here

In this quirky Australian show, performers would talk through a door to face a random situation, always being greeted by the line, “Thank God You’re here!” Then, the participant had to navigate the scene and rely on improvisation. At the end of each Thank God You’re Here episode, a winner would be selected based on which performer handled themselves best.

Outnumbered

A British sitcom, Outnumbered was a semi-improvised show starring Hugh Dennis and Claire Skinner. While all of the adult actors were given scripts, the children in the show didn’t memorize any lines. Instead, the writers gave them instructions at the last minute and let the kids take the wheel from there.

Bosom Buddies

A quirky sitcom from the early 1980s that starred Tom Hanks and Peter Scolari, Bosom Buddies frequently used improv instead of rigid scripts. Hanks and Scolari were able to play off of one another and adjust their lines, creating some very memorable moments.

Kwik Witz

An improv comedy show that actually pre-dates Whose Line, Kwik Witz pitted two teams – each comprising of two performers – against each other in front of a live audience. The teams competed in various improv games, having to use their skills to outdo the other pair. At the end of each episode, the audience selected a winner. While the winners got prizes, the losers were also treated to a token gift, usually something with a humorous twist.

Improv comedy is a unique art. Not only does a successful improv performer need to be funny, but they also have to be very quick-witted and adaptable. Without those traits, they wouldn’t be considered among the best improv performers around.

List of the Best Improv Performers

Some incredibly famous comedians (and comedic actors) have their roots in the improv scene. Other performers spend the majority of their careers focused on improv. However, everyone on this list of best improv performers has something to offer and certainly elevates the improv art form.

Ryan Stiles

One of the staple comedians on Whose Line Is It Anyway? (both in the UK and US versions), Ryan Stiles is known for improv. However, he has also spent time acting, including in popular programs like The Drew Carey Show and Two and a Half Men. Ryan Stiles even has a bit part in Hot Shots! though you can’t see his face, so you have to rely on his voice to figure out who he played.

Colin Mochrie

Another improv comedian with Whose Line Is It Anyway? fame is Colin Mochrie. He discovered improv while studying at Studio 58, and became a member of the Vancouver TheatreSports League in 1980. He later joined the Second City National Touring Company before taking a short break and then becoming a cast member on Whose Line Is It Anyway? in the UK and US.

Steve Carell

While Steve Carell has had his fair share of serious roles, he is mostly known for his comedy. He studied improv at The Second City Training Center, before heading into the world of television and film. Along with being a former correspondent on The Daily Show, Steve Carell really made a name for himself (and won a Golden Globe) for his portrayal of Michael Scott in the American version of The Office.

Wayne Brady

The third Whose Line Is It Anyway? alum to make the list, Wayne Brady wasn’t just known for his comedy, but also his musical chops. From 2001 to 2004, he was also hosting The Wayne Brady Show, which earned two Daytime Emmys. He then transitioned to the game show scene, hosting Don’t Forget the Lyrics and the reboot of Let’s Make a Deal, and has also guest starred in a range of television shows and taking on the occasional comedy tour.

Kristen Wiig

Along with appearing in Ghostbusters, Kristen Wiig has performed with the Empty Stage Comedy Theatre and even joined The Groundlings. She also played a role on The Joe Schmo Show, a reality show where everyone but one person was actors, and they had to convince the lone contestant that everything was real while making sure he didn’t catch on.

Amy Poehler

Along with being a Saturday Night Live alum, Amy Poehler is the co-founder of the Upright Citizens Brigade, a world-renowned improv troupe. Plus, she is the star of Parks and Recreation, a favorite sitcom for many, and even voiced a character in Inside Out.

Stephen Colbert

While he may be best known for his political humor and late night talk show host chops, Stephen Colbert has his roots in improv. While he didn’t really intend to pursue comedy, hoping instead to become a serious actor, he joined two improv groups in college: No Fun Mud Piranhas and ImprovOlympic (now known as iO Theater). Later, he became a part of Second City and ultimately made his way to television.

The Tenderloins (Impractical Jokers)

The Tenderloins (Joseph “Joe” Gatto, James “Murr” Murray, Brian “Q” Quinn, and Salvatore “Sal” Vulcano), are best known for the prank show Impractical Jokers. They take on challenges filled comedic potential and subject the unsuspecting public to their antics, usually with amazing results.

 

The truth is, anyone can get started in improv. After all, you only need yourself and a willingness to take part to get started.

But it is also true that it takes time to master the art of improv. Usually, you have to rely on practice and a ton of trial and error, all while accepting that mistakes will be made along the way.

However, you can cut the learning curve down dramatically by using the right approach and mindset. If you want to take your improv performance to the next level faster, here are some improv technique tips that can help you do just that.

Start at the Beginning and Hit Record

Improv relies on certain concepts. You need to be specific in the scene, answering the who, what, when, where, why, and how of it all quickly by using direct statements early on. Embracing the “yes and…” mindset is also critical, allowing you to flow with the scene instead of fighting against it.

Object work – the ability to mime an item using only your body – makes sure that you can adapt to any imagined location or circumstance. Mastering the emotional side of your delivery is also important, ensuring what you say packs the right punch. If you work with others, then learning how to adjust your approach based on the relationship between your persona and those of the other performers is similarly critical.

Practice is often crucial for getting a grip on the basics. However, you can also make a lot of headway by recording your performances and reviewing them afterwards. Gauging where you are today or how far you’ve come is difficult if you are relying on memory. However, when you have video to look back on, the process is significantly easier.

Know, Respect, and Respond to Your Audience

One of the most important things to remember during an improv performance is this: it isn’t all about you. While you might be the one on the stage, improv also involves the audience, so you need to take them into consideration.

After all, not everything is funny (or appropriate) for everyone. You need to approach things differently if you are performing for adults and there is a two-drink minimum than you would during a family-friendly show.

Before you begin, survey your audience. Notice their ages, their mood, and anything else that can serve as a clue. Then, as you perform, be ready to adapt. If a particular topic or approach has them rolling with laughter, you’ve discovered something valuable. Similarly, if something falls flat, you also know something that will help you refine your approach.

Make Everyone Else Look Good

When you are on stage, it is easy to let your ego take over. But it’s vital to remember that most improv work is team-oriented, so trying to hog the spotlight isn’t going to lead to a great scene.

Instead of focusing on your agenda, shift your mindset to everyone else. When you strive to let your scene partners shine, you are elevating the entire troop.

Plus, most improv performers will reciprocate, giving you a chance to take a turn in the spotlight too. This allows everyone to play off of one another to keep the scene’s momentum, resulting in a better performance.

This also makes it easier for your character to serve its function. Not everyone is the focus of each scene; some are just there to facilitate forward progression. By embracing the idea that everyone else needs to look good, it isn’t as hard to take on these smaller, yet critical, roles in a scene. After all, you aren’t letting ego get in your way, so you can see the value in being the character the scene needs instead of the one you want.

Fight Your (Societal) Instincts

In real life, people act within certain societal norms. For example, if someone you are close to says they look terrible today, your instinct is to reassure them because you care about their feelings. When out in public, if you are walking through a door and someone else is close behind, you pause to hold it open for them because it’s polite.

While these societal norms have their purpose, they aren’t necessary in improv. You are allowed to abandon your voice of reason and sense of compassion, giving your character freedoms you won’t find in the regular world.

So, before you let your societal instincts take charge, consider the not-suitable-in-life alternatives. You may end up feeling liberated and could find some options in a scene that you wouldn’t think of otherwise.

Whether you viewed an amazing improv video on YouTube or always had the urge to try improv, figuring out how to get started is daunting. After all, unless you have a personal connection with someone who participates in this form of comedy, you aren’t likely to get approach with an opportunity at random.

But, never fear; there are tons of ways to get started with improv. Here are a few worth exploring.

Find an Improv Class

One of the easiest ways to begin your journey into improv is to take an improv class. There, you will meet other people who are just starting out or who are improving their skills, just like you.

Plus, you will get instruction from someone familiar with the improv world. They will be able to give you tips, lead practice sessions, coordinate public showcases, and otherwise help you hone your stage skills.

Many big cities have improv classes at a variety of venues. You may find options at local theaters, through your nearest college or university, or just in your neighborhood coffee shop. Comedy clubs sometimes host classes during their off-hours too, as well as open performance nights where you can put your skills to work in front of a crowd.

Connect with an Improv Group

Thanks to the internet, finding information about improv groups in your local area is easier than ever. Hope on social media to find troupes in our city, look for open auditions on Craigslist, or attend improv performances and speak with the members after the show.

Sure, you may need to put yourself out there a bit, but that is what improv is all about in the first place. Besides, most improv performers are incredibly friendly. And, remember, they were once in your shoes, so they will probably be more than happy to point you in the right direction even if they do not have an opening themselves.

Form Your Own Practice Group

In some cases, you may have trouble finding an improv group in your local area. Now, that does not mean it is time to give up. Instead, you need to take the initiative and consider starting your own practice group.

Again, heading online is a good way to start. Create social media posts or online ads discussing your interest in getting an improv group started and see if anyone reaches out. Post flyers at local comedy venues, colleges and universities, coffee shops, and even bars with open mic nights to see if you get any bites.

The idea is to start connecting with like-minded people who share your enthusiasm for improv. Performing publicly does not even have to be a goal at this stage, though it certainly can if you are feeling bold. But, by focusing on gaining experience first, you may enjoy an easier start. It will let you hone your skills with a group of people who can help you learn and grow, ensuring when that first performance day finally rolls around, you will be ready.

Ultimately, all of the options above can help you get started with improv. Consider exploring them all and see what is available in your area. If you do not find what you are looking for, then take the reins and get something going yourself. After all, you can’t move forward if you aren’t willing to take a leap when the situation demands it.

When it comes to free learning resources about improv comedy, YouTube can be an excellent option. People from around the world can post tips, tricks, and informational content, allowing improv enthusiasts to learn and grow. Plus, you can view videos from some of the biggest names in the comedy game, all with a few clicks or taps.

But not every improv video is created equal. Some are jam-packed with value while others just don’t measure up. By focusing on the shining stars in the bunch, anyone can improve their improv performance.

With that in mind, here is a look at the best improv videos on YouTube.

Jason Sudeikis: How to be Good at Improv

Along with a discussion about his success in the world of improv, Jason Sudeikis shares some amazing tips that can help you elevate your performance in this Jason Sudeikis: How to be Good at Improv clip. If you are interested in improv, this two-and-a-half-minute video should be considered a must-see.

Matt Walsh Reveals His Keys to Improv

Another quick video chocked full of helpful information, Matt Walsh Reveals His Keys to Improv talks about how planning and actively trying to be funny can ruin any improv scene. Plus, he gives clear guidance that can increase your success on stage, allowing to you earn your laughs without getting in your own way.

The Art of Improvisation | Rapid Fire Theatre | TEDxEdmonton

If you have a little more time on your hands, The Art of Improvisation, a TEDx Edmonton performance by Rapid Fire Theatre, embraces the theme of “uncertainty,” something that is innate in improv. Watching the piece can show you how to navigate challenges and roll with the unexpected, something that is essential in the world of improv comedy.

A Lesson on Improv Technique with Chris Gethard

In A Lesson on Improv Technique with Chris Gethard, you’ll learn how to many of the best approaches to improv are also great approaches to life, making this video incredibly relatable no matter your experience level. Long-time improv coach Chris Gethard shares a ton of tips in this highly digestible nearly seven-minute video, so make sure to take the time to watch.

Ten Ways to Practice Improvisation Acting Skills : Theater Lessons

If you want to learn how to practice improv effectively and efficiently, Ten Ways to Practice Improvisation Acting Skills: Theater Lessons is the video for you. You’ll discover ten different options that can help you improve your skills, allowing you to shine with ease when you get on stage.

IMPROV YOURSELF – How to Improvise Comedy Instructional Video

Beginners rejoice. If you are just getting started in the world of improv or want to learn more about it before taking the leap, ”IMPROV YOURSELF – How To Improvise Comedy” Instructional Video is a great way to get your feet wet. Featuring Mix Tape Worm, an award-winning improv team, you’ll get a solid introduction into their world and tips that can help you excel.

Just bear in mind that the video is a bit older, and the style is a little rough. Still, it is filled with information, especially about the basics, making it worth the watch.

Comedy Improv Example Exercises

Looking to hone your technique and improve your performance, Comedy Improv Example Exercises is the right video for you. You’ll see examples of approaches you can use to enhance your skills and work as part of a group, allowing you to explore your improv style and classic scenes. Plus, watching the performers is entertaining in its own right, making it as fun as it is helpful.

Improv Lesson from Tina Fey

If you want to learn from a comedy great, Improv Lesson from Tina Fey lets you do just that. She shares some helpful tips based on her improv experience, and we all know how successful she ultimately became.

The Art of Improv – Acting Techniques & Improv Games

Want some tips about effective techniques and some fun improv games to enhance your skills, then The Art of Improv – Acting Techniques & Improv Games is for you. Loni Stark gives you a behind the scenes look into this comedy world, answering the important questions that are on every aspiring improv comedians mind.

Ultimately, the options listed above are some of the best improv videos on YouTube you can find today. Check them all out and see if they can’t make your next performance better than ever before.