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More About Improv Comedy
Where
Did Improv Come From?
Improvisational
theater is as old as the verbal story-telling tradition. Ancient
epics, such as Beowulf, was passed down from generation to
generation in an oral tradition, with each succeeding generation
making "adjustments" as they went on. This was to adjust to
any then-current audience. Much as a parent telling a story
to a child, the child will direct the story based on his/her
responses.
This tradition became more formalized with the Commedia Dell'Arte
in Europe from the mid-1500's to the 18th century. Traveling
troubadores would present shows on makeshift stages in public
squares. Dialog was improvised within an outline provided
by a set "scenario".
While other versions rose over the years, the modern version
sprung more from training of actors than an attempt at creating
a new art form. In an attempt to assist actors in analyzing
action and subtext in scripts, improvisation was created.
Acting without pre-written scripts and utilizing "games" to
assist in generating new material, they discovered that some
comedy was coming out of their efforts.
Funny? Hey, maybe we can do this in front of people and charge
money?
Viola Spolin, Keith Johnstone and Del Close are closely associated
with these efforts.
More information on the history
of improv is available on the Improv
Miami website.
Various additional questions you may have about improv are
answered through the links to questions asked above. You can
also simply see a show or look at the Improv
Miami website for some more answers. If you still have
questions, email us at info@newenglandcomedyguide.com
and we will try to answer your questions.
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