Be the Sky in Improv

RISE Comedy - Denver Improv Comedy Bar & Theater - Improv Comedy Classes

be-the-sky-chill

In improvisation, it is important to understand the role each actor plays. Similar to things that occur in the sky, such as thunderstorms and sunshine, improvisation is a great way to teach one another that we are the sky, not the characteristics in the sky.

Many people view the improviser and/or actor as the driver of the improvisational scene. In a literal way, that is accurate. Figuratively, however, it is not. The improviser is merely the conduit to the scene. The messenger, if you will. Similar to the sky.

The sky doesn’t make the sky. The actor doesn’t make the scene. The sunshine and clouds make the sky. The actor’s ability to highlight the characteristics in the scene (yes and theory) is the thing that makes the scene.

be-the-sky-full-moon The sky doesn’t make the sky.
Newer improvisers like to view them as the characteristics of the sky rather than the sky itself. Some performers come in like a dash of of lightning, for a split second and exit the scene. Others hang over the scene like dark clouds bringing down the energy. Then, there are performers that bring up the energy and light like the sun. Ultimately, the improv comedians are not any of them – rather, the improviser is the sky.
The sunshine and clouds make the sky.
The improviser in every scene must embrace the element of being the sky. Without clouds, the sky [to the normal eye] is plain. Plain old blue. Meh. The details in the scenes itself – the gifts – are really the elements of the sky. Similar to a full moon and beautiful stars; these are unable to shine without a blank dark blue canvas. The beaming sun and sugar white clouds; these are unable to be highlighted without a blank light blue background. Even the dark, fantasy purple thunderstorm clouds and flashes of lightning; unable to be seen for its beauty without, the sky.

be-the-sky-sunset

 

 

If improvisers viewed themselves as the sky and the gifts in each frame as the weather patterns, the actor is able to feel more grounded. To run this message home, storm the weather.

In improv. In life. Be the sky. You more than just a dash a lightning, girl.

Jon Jon Lannen is a best-selling author of the Giraffe children’s book series. He is an instructor, performer and writer for the RISE Comedy Playhouse. More on him here.