Improv? Anyone?

I love love love improv theatre, but how does one get experience in improv without looking like a total goose? I'm thinking this my be impossible - right? Does anyone know of any workshops etc? Ive done a search on here but the only workshop seems to be back in 2002. Through a google search I can only find drama classes for teens. I don't want to go to an 'open mic' type setup cos Im not even close to having that level of skill. I'm 26 and looking for something between the city and mandurah. If anyone has any ideas - it would be greatly appreciated. xxx Sky

I think one of the key aspects of improv is being prepared to look like a total goose. That's what it's all about. The risk element.

I agree with George; improv is all about finding ways to let go of your natural instinct not to look like a goose. If you find a group you can really feel comfortable with, then improv can be a lot of fun, and you don't worry so much about looking silly - besides which, everyone else in the room is looking silly, so why worry about what you look like? Puppets in Melbourne Sticky Apple Legs

It's a shame you're not from Melbourne as Impro Melbourne just sent me an email about upcoming courses they have soon, which are 'drop in classes' for $20 a session. More info on their website for anyone out this way: http://impromelbourne.com.au/ They also have a links section which may contain some links to other improv groups I'm not sure. Even contacting them may be able to help you a little, as they would possibly know troupes from other places such as WA. Sean ____________________________________________________________ Currently working on: 'Locked In' a short play based on a real life experience For more details visit: www.freewebs.com/lazycreationsgroup

I have a bunch of improv links here: http://www.thepromptcopy.com/pip/theatrelinks.htm There's some improv groups around the country. Not sure if there's a WA link though... Puppets in Melbourne Sticky Apple Legs

Thanks for the links Na/Sean...will check them out in a sec. I understand the 'having to just throw yourself into it' - lets hope I get an opportunity to do so. George Gander, Goose? nice...i like it. - Sky

No worries - good luck with the hunt! Puppets in Melbourne Sticky Apple Legs

Hey Sky, Unfortunately there's not a hell of a lot in WA. Some acting courses/workshops incorporate impro into their overall program, but that's probably as close as you're going to get. I remember The Big Hoo-Haa! used to offer impro classes, and they may well do another round. The guys there (think Sam Longley, Damon Lockwood, Jimmy James Eaton) really know their stuff, so it's well worth keeping an eye out for. In the meantime, why not go see the show for yourself? And finally, UDS will be holding a few impro workshops this year, once semester starts up again. We're based in Crawley (at UWA - although you don't need to be a student). Hope that helps! --- Louisa Fitzhardinge University Dramatic Society http://uds.asn.au

Thanks Louisa...will def keep my eye out. Have seen the Big Hoo-Haa - very talented bunch of guys and girls - one of the reasons i dont think i should start at 'the deep end'. To learn from those guys for even 20mins would be advantageous. Cheers again for your input/info. Sky

Practice public delusion. Just try not to get arrested. Hehe. Good acting is truthful and should contain an element of improv. Try to follow impulses and 'improvise' in everyday circumstances, it all translates across. Failing that you could come to one of my acting lessons?

I come across people who can improvise to the extent I think they must have rehearsed the scene before hand, they are the type of people who just seem to *click* when it comes to that sort of situation... However those of us who find it harder to *click* often see people and coaches such as Ali Roberts. Most reputable actors in Perth know her well. I would suggest giving her a call and asking what she can do for you, Jenni (Cohen), one of perths best casting directors has her number so you just need to google her and find her contact details. Other then that all I would advise is LIVE IMPRO. I do it all the time when I am learning an accent. I take a couple of classes with James Hagan and off I go. Goodluck and hope this helps! ~Josh

You will find a contact number for Sam Longley on the Lazy Susan's Comedy Den website: http://www.lazysusans.com.au. Or, Sam's currently working for Barking gecko Theatre Company so if you called the office and maybe ask for their very attractive artistic director, Jeremy Rice, or the shave-headed Craig Williams, they can help you.

I posted an entry on this forum about a improv based movie being shot in sydney. WWW Extempor.Net is the site.

Loubro, you might want to try reading the first post: she's based in WA, not in NSW. Mini-monster puppets customised just for you! at Puppets in Melbourne

JETS runs adult acting classes with lots of focus on improv. Classes at Arena Joondalup www.jetsweb.com.au