The Improv Chronicle Podcast

Lee Kennedy, a talented clown at Club Wormhole in Nottingham, and Isaac Charles Kessler, a Canadian clown and improviser, dive into the resurgence of clowning's influence on improv. They discuss how clowning transforms challenges into creative opportunities while promoting vulnerability and joy. The duo explores the emotional connections fostered through this art form, revealing how integrating clowning techniques enhances audience engagement and performance. Their insights highlight the adaptability and artistry needed in the evolving landscape of improv.

In this engaging discussion, Jessamyn Fairfield, an improviser and scientist from Galway, and Katy Schutte, an improviser and writer, explore their innovative climate change improv show, "We Built This City on Rock'n Coal." They share insights from their Arctic expedition, highlighting how they blend comedy with climate activism to empower rural Irish communities. The duo emphasizes the importance of using humor to address climate anxiety and foster meaningful dialogue, making the pressing issue of climate change more accessible through laughter.

David Escobedo, a PhD candidate and creator of the Improv Boost website, delves into the delicate balance between individuality and group dynamics in improvisation. He highlights how unconscious biases lead to assimilation, overshadowing diverse voices. The conversation emphasizes the need for inclusive storytelling to foster authentic expression. Escobedo also discusses how failure plays a crucial role in learning and resilience within the improv community, advocating for an environment where all performers can thrive and be true to themselves.

Two co-workers hilariously brainstorm their presentation strategies while trapped in a bathroom, blending corporate pressures with light-hearted banter. They navigate the intricacies of balancing details and broad concepts, sharing amusing insights about pitch presentations. The conversation takes a whimsical turn as they come up with outrageous strategies to 'command the room,' mixing humor and creativity with the challenges of effective communication. Overall, it’s a comedic dive into navigating the absurdities of corporate life.

Hjalmar Hardestam, a talented Swedish improviser who runs an improv comedy club in Gothenburg, shares insights on the delicate balance of stage dynamics. He discusses the art of sharing the spotlight, revealing the struggles between dominating and supporting fellow performers. Autumn Unwin joins him, highlighting her journey to becoming an inclusive improviser. Together, they emphasize the importance of nurturing an environment where everyone can shine, fostering trust, and overcoming fears to create a collaborative atmosphere on stage.

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!

Steve Plock, General Manager of the iO Theater in Chicago, teams up with Philip Markle, Artistic Director of the Brooklyn Comedy Collective, to discuss an innovative collaboration between their improv theaters. They share behind-the-scenes insights on bridging their communities and fostering resource sharing. The conversation highlights the excitement of New York improvisers wanting to perform in Chicago, emphasizing how this partnership can revitalize and connect the improv landscape, celebrating the transformative power of live comedy.

Rob Norman, an author and improviser known for his book "Improvising Now: A Practical Guide to Modern Improv," shares his insights on the vital role of scene initiation in improv. He emphasizes the power of emotions over words and how bold choices can elevate performances. The discussion explores various techniques for launching scenes, highlighting the importance of non-verbal cues and vulnerability. Norman also addresses the common struggle of improvisers with politeness, urging performers to embrace authenticity for more compelling interactions.

Join Laura Hotchkiss, a Glasgow improv star and Edinburgh International Improv Festival producer, alongside David Raitt, a seasoned Toronto improviser and author of The Improvolutionist, as they dive deep into the issue of burnout in the improv community. They candidly discuss their personal battles balancing passion with exhaustion, the emotional toll of performing, and the importance of self-care. With practical tips and heartfelt anecdotes, they share how to sustain joy while navigating the demanding world of improvisational comedy.

Join Jack Cross, a Nottingham improviser known for his work with Rhymes Against Humanity, and Chris Locke, a Bristol-based performer and organizer of the Pride Comic Arts Festival, as they dive into the intricate dynamics of forming an improv team. They discuss building trust and the importance of comfort among members. Expect insights on navigating diverse personalities, overcoming creative blocks, and the role of community in enriching the improv experience. Their personal stories reveal the joy and challenges of improvisation.