The Eight Steps of the Story Spine with Kenn Adams
Aug 27, 2020
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Kenn Adams, an improv comedy instructor from California and the mastermind behind the Story Spine framework, shares fascinating insights into storytelling. He recounts the origins of the Story Spine and its pivotal role in crafting emotional narratives, touching on the balance of structure and spontaneity in improv. Kenn explores how improvisation enhances personal connections and creativity, especially during challenging times, and emphasizes the transformative power of storytelling in bridging human experiences.
The Story Spine, an eight-step structure, simplifies storytelling by helping creators articulate key narrative elements effectively.
Improvisation fosters human connection and creativity, empowering storytellers to build on ideas and craft engaging narratives spontaneously.
Engaging in playful activities, especially for children, nurtures creative instincts and develops skills crucial for storytelling and problem-solving.
Deep dives
The Importance of Storytelling Structure
Storytelling is a fundamental skill that many struggle to master, particularly regarding its structure. Various theories exist, such as the Hero’s Journey and Aristotle’s classical structure, but one of the simplest and most effective frameworks is The Story Spine. This eight-step structure allows storytellers to identify key components of their narratives, leading to clearer and more impactful storytelling. By utilizing a structured approach, brands and individuals can better connect with their audiences through coherent narratives that engage and resonate.
The Role of Improv in Storytelling
Improvisation plays a crucial role in developing storytelling skills, facilitating human connections through spontaneous interaction. Improv helps individuals learn to build on each other's ideas while remaining present in the moment, which is essential for effective storytelling. The practice of improv not only promotes collaboration but also encourages creative expression without the fear of judgment. This openness allows storytellers to weave genuine narratives that can deeply engage an audience.
Harnessing Creativity Through Play
Creativity is often stifled by societal norms as individuals grow older, leading to a decline in imaginative thinking. Engaging in playful activities, such as improvisational theater, helps rekindle that creative spark, encouraging participants to embrace their imaginative instincts. This is especially beneficial for children, as it nurtures their ability to create and explore ideas without fear of criticism. By practicing creativity in a supportive environment, individuals can develop their problem-solving and relationship-building skills that extend far beyond the stage.
The Journey of The Story Spine
The Story Spine, an invaluable tool for storytellers, emerged from the need to teach young writers the basic framework of storytelling. Its eight-line structure helps convey the essential elements of a narrative, guiding practitioners toward creating coherent stories with a beginning, middle, and end. Initially created in the early '90s, the Story Spine gained popularity through its adoption in various theater and education contexts, including high-profile organizations like Pixar. Its widespread use allows storytellers of all backgrounds to explore narrative construction in a simplified manner, contributing to effective storytelling.
Adapting to Change in Theater
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the performing arts, forcing theaters to adapt to new formats and platforms. Many improvisation companies transitioned to online performances, discovering new ways to engage audiences while maintaining creativity. This shift has opened doors to broader audiences beyond geographical restrictions, allowing artists to collaborate remotely. The resilience to transform challenges into opportunities underscores the enduring power of storytelling and community in the arts.
This episode of The Storytelling Lab features none other than Kenn Adams, a.k.a the inventor of the "Story Spine." Don't know what the Story Spine is? If you've seen any Pixar film, then you unconsciously know what it is. On this episode, Rain takes Kenn back in time to when and how the Story Spine was born, the art and structure of improv, and the importance of rules and balance within storytelling.