'You don't have to be funny': how to teach it.

Funny improv is amazing. A student that wants to be funny all the time, that can be challenging.

Funny is not the only flavour in our metaphorical spice cabinet. In improvised theatre we also try different flavours. Some pepper, some basil, some chilli. Some beautiful, some enraging, some memorable.

But how do you teach that to your students?

That is the question I get a lot. I could write paragraphs and paragraphs about this topic, but for this blog I decided to keep it simple.

I listed some phrases for you to use, or be inspired by. They are meant to create an atmosphere in your improv class where funny is not punished, but space is given to all the other flavours too. And as a result, to all the other qualities of your students.

Here are some ideas for things to say:

“Let’s start with a nice, deep breath.”
“We will share some true stories. They don’t have to be funny, or even good stories. Just true.”
“To practice this I will give you 5 minutes for your scene. You can take it slow.”
“Instead of words, try responding with an emotional sound.”
“I will give you music for the start of the scene. No speaking necessary.”
“Take your time”
“Yes, more of that emotion.”
“Make eye contact with your partner”
“Audience, what are some moments you remembered from this scene?”
“Did you see that that joke worked so well, because she stayed so normal?”
“Isn’t that great, that we as an audience also felt the tension in that silence?”

Of course, all these phrases are without context. Feel free to take them as inspiration for how you as a teacher can invite students to not just go for funny. That is not done just by saying it once, but by constantly setting up a different atmosphere.

Last but not least… Practice what you preach. Quick, snappy classes lead to quick, snappy scenes.

Let your teaching be patient and open-minded. This creates a space where students feel invited to take a peek into that amazing spice cabinet.