How to Make Your Improv Scene Exciting: Tips and Techniques for Improv Comedians

The world of improvisation is vast and ever-evolving. Whether you are a seasoned performer or just starting out, mastering the art of making your scene interesting is a valuable skill to have. Beyond the usual tips such as listening, observing, and focusing on your scene partner, there are numerous other techniques and strategies you can employ to enhance your improvisation skills. In this article, we explore some lesser-known tips and practices that can help you excel in improv comedy.

1. The Power of Anticipation

“Anticipation is the essence of an exciting story.” – Stephen King

Suspense and anticipation create tension and excitement. In a scene, you can build these emotions by subtly positioning your lines and actions to foreshadow something out of the ordinary or a twist in the plot. Using assumptions carefully, you can guide the audience's expectations without giving away the ending. For example, if you are playing a character who seems to be uninterested in something, you can suddenly show interest to create a surprising twist. Anticipate the next move or line from your scene partner and prepare your response to maintain the flow of the scene.

2. Charisma and Energy

Bringing a blend of charm and energy to your improv performance can make a huge difference in audience engagement.

Develop a strong, distinctive voice that resonates with your character. Whether you are portraying a flamboyant character or a mysterious one, your voice should convey the right tone. Use physical gestures and facial expressions to enhance your performances. Small, subtle movements can add a lot of depth to your character. Engage with the audience and use elements of audience interaction to break the fourth wall. This can make the scene more relatable and enjoyable for the audience.

3. Quick Analysis and Decision Making

Improvisation often requires quick decision making, and this skill can be honed through practice and exposure to various scenarios.

Learn to read the room and understand the dynamics between your scene partner and yourself. This helps in making quick, intuitive decisions that make the scene more engaging. Practice making quick decisions in ambiguous situations. For instance, if you are not sure what your next line should be, try to make a decision based on the most significant piece of information in the scene. Use your senses to gather information and make decisions. What can you see, hear, or even smell in the scene that might guide the direction of the performance?

4. Ground Rules and Scenethreats

“Comedy doesn't just rely on what you know. It requires a different way of thinking.” – Steve Guterson

Establish clear ground rules at the beginning of your scenes. These rules can be as simple as a misunderstood profession, a special skill, or a unique relationship between two characters. Ground rules provide a framework that guides the direction of the scene and ensures it stays interesting. Incorporate “scene threats” into your scenes to add tension. For example, an unexpected guest entering the scene, a natural disaster happening, or a sudden realization can shake up the dynamic and keep the audience on their toes. Introduce props or objects that play a significant role in the scene. These can be used for comedic purposes or to develop the story further. The use of unexpected props can bring unforeseen elements into the scene and engage the audience.

5. Focus on Storytelling

“A great story will always find a way.” - Mr. Morlidge

Ensure that the scene has a clear beginning, middle, and end. Every scene should ideally have a narrative arc that resolves itself to provide a satisfying conclusion. Use dialogue, actions, and physicality to advance the story. The key is to make every element serve the purpose of moving the scene forward and engaging the audience. Keep the stakes high and the tension alive. This makes the scene more compelling and keeps the audience invested in it.

Conclusion

Improvisation is an art form that requires a blend of creativity, spontaneity, and technique. By employing these tips and techniques, you can turn a potentially mundane improv scene into a thrilling and entertaining performance. Remember, the key is to practice consistently and never stop learning. Whether you attend classes, read books, or listen to podcasts, there is always something new to discover and apply to your craft.

Making your improv scene interesting is not just about delivering laughs; it is about creating memorable moments that resonate with your audience. With the right approach, you can take your improv comedy to new heights.