1: In what country did Commedia dell'arte form and where was it performed? 2: How can you use improvisation in your everyday life?
3: Why are improv skills important to an actor? Or to anyone?
4: What exercise are you interested in trying in our improvisational unit?
5: Why is it important to not say 'no' in an improv scene?
6: What is breaking character?
7: How can improvisation build your confidence about abilities with public speaking?

1 Despite its supposed Italian origins, Commedia dell'Arte wound up being more popular in France (there called The Comédie-Italienne) than Italy throughout the 17th century. In fact, it was in France where it developed its established repertoire. 3 Improv can help the way actors approach a script. Many actors that work on scripts on stage or in a film or television series use improvisation in their practice process. Improv also helps get the actor out of their element, creating their own character and environment. 5 In improv, the main mantra is “yes and.” You're supposed to say yes to everything weird. ... “Saying yes” and moving the action forward is pedaling, and saying “no” is pumping the brakes. If all you do is use the bakes, then you're not going to go anywhere. You also can't really start off by hitting the brakes. 6 In theatre (especially in the illusionistic Western tradition), breaking character occurs when an actor ceases to maintain the illusion that he is identical with the character he is portraying. 7 In improv, you learn to think on your feet; this will hone your on-the-spot speaking skills too. Improv works best if you make the other participants look good; in speaking, you look good if you make the audience feel good about their chances to succeed.

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