Join Achilles Stamatelaky, Will Hines, and a star-studded cast of improvisers as they dive deep into the clichés that plague the genre. They tackle tired tropes, emphasizing the need for authenticity and emotional depth in performances. Discussions span from the oversimplification of character dynamics to the importance of physicality in comedy. The group advocates for fresh perspectives, highlighting gender roles and the gaps between real life and improv. Expect a thought-provoking exploration of how to elevate the craft beyond its clichés.
Improvisers express frustration over clichés like repetitive character names and generic scenarios that stifle creativity and originality.
There is a strong desire for more authentic representation of everyday realities in improv, promoting relatable and mundane activities.
A call for deeper character development and emotional complexity is emphasized, moving away from one-dimensional tropes to richer narratives.
Improvisers advocate for increased physicality and movement within scenes to enhance storytelling and create more dynamic performances.
Deep dives
Clichés in Improv
Many improvisers express frustration with clichés that dominate scenes, such as overused character names or repetitive scenarios. Common complaints include the prevalence of high-fives and the tendency to revert to generic narratives, like dating or workplace scenes. For instance, some speak against the humor found in scenes portraying stereotypical characters, such as nagging wives or generic high school students. These clichés not only undermine originality but also limit the potential for genuine character development and deeper storytelling in improv.
Gaps in Reality Representation
Improvisers often highlight a noticeable gap in the representation of everyday realities within improv. They wish to see more authentic and relatable elements, such as the portrayal of mundane activities that genuinely reflect life, like fetching a drink or dealing with daily tasks. Specific suggestions include the incorporation of less dramatic, everyday objects that could enrich scenes rather than focusing on exaggerated or unrealistic scenarios. This call for realism aims to elevate improvisation by connecting with audiences through shared experiences.
Character Complexity and Depth
Many improvisers advocate for more complex and nuanced character portrayals, arguing against the reduction of characters to one-dimensional tropes. There's a desire for performances that include a wider range of emotions and motivations rather than relying on simple archetypes. For instance, some suggest showcasing the depth of characters by exploring their backstories and personal experiences in greater detail. This approach would not only enrich the scenes but also foster a deeper emotional connection with the audience.
Physicality and Movement in Improv
Improvisers call for a stronger emphasis on physicality and movement in scenes to enhance engagement and storytelling. They argue that incorporating physical actions can significantly elevate the quality of performances. Examples include interacting with the environment, using more object work, and displaying varied physical expressions to amplify scenes. By embracing physicality, performers can create a more dynamic and visually interesting experience for their audience.
Avoiding Predictable Scene Structures
There is a repetitive nature to scene structures that improvisers seek to break free from, as many performances fall into predictable patterns, such as sequels to previous scenes or relying on expected tropes. Audiences often witness the same basic scenarios repeated, which can diminish the spontaneity and excitement of improv. To combat this, improvisers are encouraged to innovate and push their creative boundaries, attempting unusual setups or subverting audience expectations. The goal is to create unique and engaging improvisations that capture genuine surprise and intrigue.
Emotional Connection and Vulnerability
Improvisers express a desire to see more emotional vulnerability and connection among characters on stage. They believe that allowing characters to express their true feelings can lead to more compelling narratives and relatable moments. Those interviewed emphasize the importance of building genuine emotional arcs that resonate with audiences, suggesting that humor can be derived from authentic emotional experiences. This approach fosters engagement and connection, showcasing the human experience in a more relatable manner.
Genre Exploration and Creativity
Improvisers wish to see more exploration of genres and less reliance on familiar comedic styles, such as the 'silly' or 'absurd.' Improv has the potential to incorporate elements of different genres, expanding the scope of performances beyond typical comedic narratives. For example, performances could delve into horror, fantasy, or even dramatic undertones that challenge audiences. This diversification not only enriches improvisation but also showcases the versatility and creativity of performers.
19 different improvisors discuss the cliches they are tired of seeing and the gaps between the improvised worlds we create and the world we live in. What do they see too much of, and what do they not see enough of? Featuring Achilles Stamatelaky, Will Hines, Jenny St. Angelo, Kevin Mullaney, Kevin Hines, Bill DiPiero, Molly Thomas, Morgan Phillips, Jesse Lee, Kelsey Bailey, Jessica Morgan, Lydia Hensler, Liz Noth, Lou Gonzalez, Devin Ritchie, Lily Du, Johnna Scrabis, Lindsay Calleran, & Sebastian Conelli. Co-produced by Alejandro Cardona. Hosted by Curtis Retherford.
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