I haven't written a blog in a really long time and then every time I went to sit down and write I couldn't come up with anything to write about. So, I just decided to write. I have no agenda, no topic or inspiration. Here goes...
Improv...
It is something that is really important to me. I struggle sometimes because the art form that I love is often made fun of in movies and television shows. It sucks, it hurts and it cuts deep.
What I don't think people realize is the vital skills you get from learning improv.
Courage, Confidence, Communication, Creativity, Flexibility and so much more...
Improv changed my life. I went from not having a creative outlet to trying something that was terrifying but exhilarating at the same time. Theater without a script. A live audience in front of you. Instead of failing, I flourished. It changed my confidence level. It changed my perception of myself. It changed how I went about my every day life.
13 years later, I don't even recognize the person I who stepped into their first improv class. Like the song from Wicked
" Who can say if I've been changed for the better? But
Because I knew you
Because I knew you
I have been changed for good"
I do believe I have been changed for the better. So, I will continue to pursue, perform and teach the art form that I love and push for more respect around the spontaneity and authenticity that comes out through improv. I will continue showing actors how the flexibility will provide them greater depth in their scene work and character development.
I feel like I have to shout it out to the universe to hold myself accountable. Because I love improv!
your article reminded me. This week I asked the teenagers what mental health skills they get to practice while doing improv. I am amazed that they came up with so many answers.