Black Improv Alliance

?? Welcome back to The Reference Report! ?? As improvisers, staying up on pop culture isn’t just fun—it’s homework. Knowing the references that shape our world makes us sharper, funnier, and more connected. And let’s be real: we all know Friends and Seinfeld are improv reference staples, but what about the stories WE grew up with? It’s time for the rest of y’all to catch up on our classics. ?? Every so often, we’ll drop a list of Black movies and shows you need to know—whether you’re a Black improviser brushing up on essentials or a non-Black cousin doing the research to meet us where we are. Let’s make those Black references hit just as hard as the rest. ??? ???? This week’s theme: Must-Watch Black Films for Black History Month ???? Dive into these iconic stories that celebrate Black excellence, resilience, and history: ?? 13th (Documentary) A powerful exploration of the criminal justice system and how systemic racism is deeply rooted in American history. ?? Hidden Figures The untold story of the Black women mathematicians who were crucial to NASA’s space program—genius, excellence, and Black girl magic at its finest. ?? The Color Purple A timeless tale of struggle, resilience, and sisterhood that continues to resonate with every generation. ?? Black Panther A global celebration of Black culture, leadership, and Afrofuturism. Wakanda Forever! ?? Do the Right Thing Spike Lee’s masterpiece that explores race, community, and tension on one summer day in Brooklyn. ?? Bonus: When They See Us (Mini-Series) A gripping and heartbreaking retelling of the Central Park Five’s story, showcasing resilience in the face of injustice. Seen these classics? Let us know your thoughts! Missed a few? Add them to your watchlist and make this month about learning, celebrating, and reflecting. ?? #TheReferenceReport #BlackFilm #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackExcellence #BlackImprov #BlackImprovAlliance

It’s Celebrate Yourself Sunday! ??? Let’s take a moment to give ourselves some well-deserved love and props. ?? Cousins of all tribes (yes, white allies, we’re talking to you too—this one’s for everyone! ??), drop something you accomplished this week that you’re proud of in the comments below! Big or small, we want to celebrate it ALL. ?? And while you're at it—leave some love and encouragement for the person who commented above you. Let’s keep the positivity flowing! ????? #CelebrateYourselfSunday #CommunityLove #BlackJoy #BlackImprov #BlackImprovAlliance #BlackAndFunny #OperationBlackJoy #Celebrate #Props #Joy

It’s Celebrate Yourself Sunday! ??? Let’s take a moment to give ourselves some well-deserved love and props. ?? Cousins of all tribes (yes, white allies, we’re talking to you too—this one’s for everyone! ??), drop something you accomplished this week that you’re proud of in the comments below! Big or small, we want to celebrate it ALL. ?? And while you're at it—leave some love and encouragement for the person who commented above you. Let’s keep the positivity flowing! ????? #CelebrateYourselfSunday #CommunityLove #BlackJoy #BlackImprov #BlackImprovAlliance #BlackAndFunny #OperationBlackJoy #Celebrate #Props #Joy

?? Welcome back to The Reference Report! ?? As improvisers, staying up on pop culture isn’t just fun—it’s homework. Knowing the references that shape our world makes us sharper, funnier, and more connected. And let’s be real: we all know Friends and Seinfeld are improv reference staples, but what about the stories WE grew up with? It’s time for the rest of y’all to catch up on our classics. ?? Every so often, we’ll drop a list of Black movies and shows you need to know—whether you’re a Black improviser brushing up on essentials or a non-Black cousin doing the research to meet us where we are. Let’s make those Black references hit just as hard as the rest. ??? ???? This week’s theme: Political Movies with Black Leads! ???? From fighting for justice to navigating power and leadership, these films (and a bonus TV show!) spotlight bold Black voices in the political arena: ?? Selma The story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s pivotal march for voting rights in Alabama—a lesson in courage and leadership. ?? Malcolm X A gripping biopic that follows the life, transformation, and impact of one of the most influential figures in history. ?? The Butler Through the eyes of a White House butler, this film offers a unique perspective on decades of civil rights struggles. ?? White House Down Jamie Foxx as the President? Say less. This action-packed thriller shows a Black man holding it down in the highest office during a high-stakes crisis. ?? Bonus: Scandal Olivia Pope (played by the incredible Kerry Washington) runs D.C. like nobody’s business. From fixing political messes to handling presidential drama, this series is iconic. If you don’t know, now you know! Seen these iconic stories? Let us know your favorite moments—or what’s next on your watchlist. Let’s keep the conversation and the learning going! ?? #TheReferenceReport #BlackFilm #BlackCinema #BlackImprov #BlackExcellence #Scandal #BlackImprovAlliance

? This year, unleash your confidence with improv! ??? Here are 5 tips to boost your self-assurance using improv tools: 1. **Say ‘Yes, And...’**: Embrace every situation and build on it. It reaffirms your ideas and promotes positivity! ?? 2. **Trust Your Instincts**: Follow your gut in conversations. It’s your best source of creativity and confidence! ?? 3. **Practice Listening**: Active listening helps you respond authentically, making you feel more connected and confident. ???? 4. **Break the Ice**: Start with a quick warm-up exercise to loosen up before important interactions. ???? 5. **Embrace Mistakes**: View blunders as gifts for growth. The more you accept them, the more confident you’ll become! ?? There's no time like the start of a new year to step out of your comfort zone and shine! ??? Let's go! #Improv #Confidence #ConfidenceBoost #PersonalGrowth #YesAnd #EmbraceYourself #BlackImprov #BlackImprovAlliance #BlackJoy #BlackAndFunny #Joy

It’s Celebrate Yourself Sunday! ??? Let’s take a moment to give ourselves some well-deserved love and props. ?? Cousins of all tribes (yes, white allies, we’re talking to you too—this one’s for everyone! ??), drop something you accomplished this week that you’re proud of in the comments below! Big or small, we want to celebrate it ALL. ?? And while you're at it—leave some love and encouragement for the person who commented above you. Let’s keep the positivity flowing! ????? #CelebrateYourselfSunday #CommunityLove #BlackJoy #BlackImprov #BlackImprovAlliance #BlackAndFunny #OperationBlackJoy #Celebrate #Props #Joy

Anybody else feeling unexcited about Monday? ?? If you’re feeling heavy, frustrated, or just plain tired this weekend, let’s start by saying this: You’re not alone. It’s okay to feel how you feel. These moments can be tough, and we don’t have to pretend they’re not. But here’s the thing—we are resilient, brilliant, and strong. We’ve been here before, and we’ve always found a way to thrive. ?????? In improv, we’re taught to embrace uncertainty, find joy in the unexpected, and lean on our scene partners. Life may not always give us the “script” we want, but we always have the power to respond with purpose and creativity. So this weekend, let’s apply some improv principles to our self-care and resilience: ?? Yes, And… Your Feelings Acknowledge what you’re feeling and give yourself space to process it. Frustrated? Sad? Angry? Say “yes” to those emotions, and then ask, “What do I need to take care of myself right now?” ?? Find Your Scene Partners Lean on your community. Whether it’s family, friends, or trusted allies, connect with the folks who make you feel safe and seen. Let’s remind each other that we’ve got each other’s backs. ? Play the Game of Gratitude Even in uncertain times, we can find small joys to hold onto. What’s something that made you smile this week? What’s something or someone you’re grateful for? Celebrate those wins, no matter how small. ?? Take It One Beat at a Time In improv, we take scenes one moment at a time. In life, it’s okay to do the same. Don’t worry about the whole “four years” right now. Focus on what you can do today to bring a little more light into your world. Remember, improv teaches us that collaboration, adaptability, and creativity can turn even the hardest moments into opportunities for growth. We are still here, and we are still us—bold, brilliant, and unshakably resilient. We’re in this together, cousins. Let’s keep lifting each other up, one moment at a time. ?? #ImprovForLife #Resilience #SelfCare #BlackJoy #Community #YesAnd #BlackImprov #BlackImprovAlliance

It’s the start of a brand new year, and we’re going Black to the Future! ??? As we gear up for an exciting Black History Month filled with shows, workshops, and community events, we’re also dreaming big about what’s ahead for the rest of the year and beyond. ?? What are you planning and looking forward to this year and in the years to come? What’s coming up in your Black future? Let’s manifest greatness together. ???? #BlackToTheFuture #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackExcellence #BlackImprov #BlackImprovAlliance #BlackAndFunny #BlackJoy #OperationBlackJoy

It’s Celebrate Yourself Sunday! ??? Let’s take a moment to give ourselves some well-deserved love and props. ?? Cousins of all tribes (yes, white allies, we’re talking to you too—this one’s for everyone! ??), drop something you accomplished this week that you’re proud of in the comments below! Big or small, we want to celebrate it ALL. ?? And while you're at it—leave some love and encouragement for the person who commented above you. Let’s keep the positivity flowing! ????? #CelebrateYourselfSunday #CommunityLove #BlackJoy #BlackImprov #BlackImprovAlliance #BlackAndFunny #OperationBlackJoy #Celebrate #Props #Joy

?? Welcome to The Reference Report! ?? As improvisers, staying up on pop culture isn’t just fun—it’s homework. Knowing the references that shape our world makes us sharper, funnier, and more connected. And let’s be real: we all know Friends and Seinfeld are improv reference staples, but what about the stories WE grew up with? It’s time for the rest of y’all to catch up on our classics. ?? Every so often, we’ll drop a list of Black movies and shows you need to know—whether you’re a Black improviser brushing up on essentials or a non-Black cousin doing the research to meet us where we are. Let’s make those Black references hit just as hard as the rest. ??? ???? This week’s theme: Resolutions & New Beginnings in Black Film! ???? Starting the year with fresh energy? These four Black films about resolutions and starting over are perfect for your watchlist: ?? The Pursuit of Happyness A tear-jerking story of determination, grit, and chasing a better future. ?? Fruitvale Station A heartbreaking and profound look at the choices and systems shaping life and community. ?? Talk to Me Resilience, transformation, and the iconic story of a radio DJ who shook things up. ?? Black Panther Identity, leadership, and creating a legacy—all wrapped up in Wakandan excellence. Seen them already? Share your thoughts in the comments! Missed one? Hit play and thank us later. ?? #TheReferenceReport #BlackFilm #BlackCinema #BlackImprov #BlackImprovAlliance #BlackJoy #OperationBlackJoy #BlackAndFunny #Movies