The Improv Chronicle Podcast Choosing To Know: The "Five-Seconds Ahead" Improv Tool
Apr 9, 2024
Join Craig Cackowski, an acclaimed Los Angeles actor and improviser, as he delves into the transformative 'choose to know' philosophy in improv. He explains the 'Five-Seconds Ahead' technique that makes performances feel like magic. Explore how specificity and audience engagement can elevate scenes, and discover the power of starting lines with 'I know' for deeper collaboration. Cackowski shares practical exercises that highlight the importance of assertive communication, taking your improv skills to new heights!
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Power of Choosing to Know
- In improv, a character should always "choose to know" new information to stay ahead of the audience by about five seconds.
- This approach creates the illusion of a magic trick and improves the flow of the scene.
Justify Knowing, Share Scene Burden
- When unknown information arises in a scene, find a justification for your character knowing it to please the audience and make scenes funnier.
- Share the creative burden with your partner by nudging the scene forward incrementally rather than being fully reactive or overwhelming with new info.
Specificity Connects Audience
- Defining vague scene elements provides comfort and clarity, helping both performers and the audience connect with the reality.
- Specificity like naming locations or props helps audiences visualize the scene and enjoy it more.