

The Backline
The Sonar Network
Canadian Comedy Award winners Rob Norman and Adam Cawley discuss weekly improv-based topics based on a theme.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 27, 2025 • 54min
Form Follows Function
This week Rob and Adam discuss improv forms! What makes a good improv form? When does your improv format get in the way of your scenes? Also, the beloved format “Darwin’s Christmas Tree” returns to the podcast!
Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Aug 19, 2025 • 57min
There’s Nothing More Boring Than Creativity
In this lively discussion, the hosts tackle where improvisational ideas originate and how to tackle creative blocks. They explore the paradox of creativity being dull at times, despite its whimsical reputation. Nostalgic tales from Chicago and experiences at the Detroit Improv Festival highlight the connection between food and creativity. The conversation delves into emotional dynamics in improv and the importance of embracing 'bad' ideas to spark originality, all while emphasizing authenticity and diversity in performances.

Aug 18, 2025 • 1h 2min
Do You Like Me?
There’s nothing more unfair when an audience picks their collective favourite onstage. How important is it to be likable onstage? What can you do to stay on the good side of a discerning crowd? And most importantly, is there any path back towards the audience’s good graces?
Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Aug 7, 2025 • 60min
Classroom the to the Stage
This week Rob and Adam discuss the careful art of taking lessons from the classroom and applying them to the stage.
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Jul 31, 2025 • 59min
How Do I Know If I’m Getting Better?
This week Rob and Adam discuss personal growth, improvement, and developing yourself throughout your improv career.
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Jul 24, 2025 • 57min
Active Choice VS. Action Choice
This week Rob and Adam discuss one of the foundational rules of improv, “Always make the active choice.” In the age of modern improv, what does an active choice look like? How does an “active choice” interact wtih Game of the Scene? What’s the difference between “action” and an “active choice?”
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Jul 15, 2025 • 52min
The Anaesthetic of Yes And
We’re told that Yes And is the building block of every improv scene, but are there are drawbacks when using this tool? This week Rob and Adam discuss the origins of Yes And, how to agree effectively, and how to use emotion to hold the story in place.
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Jul 10, 2025 • 46min
Find the End
This week Rob and Adam discuss how to find your ending onstage, what a resolution looks like onstage, and how your ending might differ based on what format you’re playing. Thanks to ITS Company Director Kate Coates.
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Jul 3, 2025 • 1h 3min
Scene Paint Me (Like One of Your French Girls)
This week Rob and Adam discuss scene painting within scenes, openers, and transitions. As well as Mitch Marner, ceremonial swords, and the science of revenge.
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Jun 27, 2025 • 49min
Narrative Longfrom
This week Rob and Adam discuss story-structure, the limitations of modular improv, and how to create simple narratiaves for your improv show. Thanks to Garrett for his contribution to the Backline Mailbag.
Brought to you By: The Sonar Network