Before 'Yes And'

Improv scenes often fall apart when fear gets the better of the improviser. Fear of “getting it wrong”, fear of not being interesting enough, fear of looking stupid, fear of not being funny, fear fear FEAR! When this fear takes hold, as human beings we naturally want to think our way out of it, we start to plan, we start to judge, we start to resist, we start to try to control what happens as a way to make ourselves feel safe. We try to tick off all the "rules" of improv, to "yes and", but as a result we can over-complicate our scenes, and we rush past the beautiful moments that are there to be explored. What if there's another way? Let's take your work to the next level by focusing on the state of mind that results in consistently effective scenes. We'll find ways to approach everything with more joy, generosity and trust, despite feeling afraid. We'll work on developing and nurturing these positive responses to fear while noticing our less helpful ones. In order to do this, we will focus on what happens before you even "begin" a scene: firstly, ways to be relaxed and focused even before we step onstage, generating trust in yourself, in your scene partners and in the process. Secondly, the moments between stepping on and delivering our first lines: noticing what's already happening and letting that be our inspiration. We'll practise being more present and having more fun. Let go of your ego, let go of your fear, let go of the notion of “rules” and instead find ways to be more free onstage, connect more with your own emotional life and make scenes that are more truthful, surprising and meaningful.