Say YES to Improvisation

Think you are not funny? Or don’t want to make a fool of yourself? Can't act?

These were my thoughts and the reason why I initially said no to improvisation, or improv.

Playback Theatre is a form of improvisation that is entertainment, creativity and discovery rolled into one. The improvisers create instant theatre on stage, enacting and honoring the teller’s story.  Half the fun is in watching the improvisers create a performance out of thin air. 

What begins as one person’s story becomes a tale or journey for the whole group.

First step "get over yourself".

The hardest part about trying anything new, is taking that first step.

Whether it is a one-day workshop, attending a regular rehearsal or becoming part of a performing improv group, the first step is getting over yourself. There are so many benefits that you will get from attending improv classes, it's worth the leap.

Go along with an open heart and mind. An improv group is very much a lesson about trust. Trust yourself, the experienced improv actors will do their best to make you feel welcome and extend their trust to you.

Ready to say YES?

Here are five things you will get out of an improv class.

#1 To get outside of your comfort zone

You will be outside of your comfort zone at an improv class, but it's so much fun, you won't even notice. You will be drawn towards the magic and transformation that happens before your eyes, and before you know it, you will be experiencing the various Playback forms with fellow attendees. Afterward, you may stop and think "did I do that?"

Sometimes is it best not to overthink – just feel the fear and do it anyway. The playback space is safe, supportive and non-judgmental.

No need to worry that you will “get it wrong", or you won't know what to do next. It's improv, no one knows what is next - that's the point!

#2 To discover a lot about yourself

One of the principles of improv is characters. You will perform as a character on stage, a character different from yourself; you will learn a lot about yourself by playing a character with a point of view or opinion that is different from your own.

As an improv player, we usually play the part of the teller. It is a privilege and a learning experience to play the part of another and aim to feel what they felt and enact that back to them. Another HUGE part of improv is to express emotions… realistic emotions, through those emotions you will be able to learn a lot about yourself. You will think and feel differently 

 #3 You will feel empowered by saying YES

We say "no" to too much in life. I don't have time, not enough money, don't have the skills...and so on. None of these are excuses for not trying improv. SAY YES. What could be the worse thing that could happen? 

Improv classes will teach you that the fun is on the other side of Yes! Saying yes to things that you would usually say no to because your inner voice tells you that you're not good enough.

Saying yes will help you believe in yourself and your own ability. You can do this – and we will help you.

#4 You will become a better listener 

By carefully listening you will know how to respond. You will learn to listen not just for words but also emotion, intention, a point of view and so much more.

Sometimes you can't see your fellow actors if they are behind you. but you just learn to listen with your whole body. It's a great skill to learn to develop as most of the time, we listen to reply and don't really listen at all.

#5 Your public speaking will improve

During an improv class, you will speak up, get into the moment and get connected to your voice and breath. You won't even need to think about what words come next. You will learn vocal exercises and have the chance to freely speak and practice characters, vocal variety and different ways to use your voice. 

All of these techniques are transferable to speaking in front of others.

My Playback journey

I am a member of Perth Playback Theatre, and it all started because I said YES three years ago.

As a speaker and oral storyteller, coach and trainer, the skills I have learned at Perth Playback are invaluable. I have grown as a speaker and performer by regularly attending and I have a new family of friends in this group of wonderful people who share in an open and honest way.

I have learned so much about myself and I now crave the rehearsals, workshops and performances. The community of Perth Playback is so welcoming, even when you travel to other places. I was delighted to meet and play in a rehearsal with Sydney Playbackers Johanna and Steve, as well as meet the Melbourne Playback team and watch them perform.

A bit more about Playback Theatre

Playback Theatre is an interactive form of improvisational theatre in which audience members tell stories from their lives and watch them enacted on the spot. It is a dynamic way of engaging with each other to come together with heart, humour and honesty.

The performance begins with the audience seated and all performers on stage – four actors, a musician, and facilitator. The facilitator (known as the Playback Conductor) engages the audience, introduces the theme and reflects on how the topic might impact or be interpreted by the audience. The Conductor encourages feedback – ideas, comments, experiences, stories – and the performers listen very carefully. Having heard an experience or story, the Conductor pronounces ‘Let’s Watch, ’ and the performance begins – immediately!

Playback Theatre was founded in 1975 by Jonathan Fox and Jo Salas. It has spread around the globe, and Playback companies now exist on six continents.

Perth Playback Theatre was established in 1982 and continues to perform in Perth as well as tour regional WA. The Company is a member of the International Playback Theatre Network which fosters training, research and new developments in interactive theatre.

In a Playback performance, someone in the audience shares a "moment" or story from their life and (in some forms), chooses the actors to play the different roles. Then those present watch the enactment, as the story "comes to life" with artistic shape and nuance. Actors draw on various forms and styles to convey meaning, such as metaphor or song as well as many types of narrative short forms including fluid sculptures, pairs and chorus, to name a few.

Playback Theatre is used in a range of contexts including public performances, community arts, social dialogue, peacebuilding, conflict resolution, education, change management and celebrations. There are regular Playback gatherings and festivals in different parts of the world.

How can you get involved?

Our Open Rehearsals are held monthly. Find out more here

There is no pressure to participate, you can dip your toes in, or you can jump right in, it's is up to you. There is much to learn by simply watching and listening.

We will provide a fun, active and safe way for you to participate if you choose ( I guarantee you will want to jump up and have a go, but there is no pressure).

As part of our rehearsal approach, we will demonstrate some of our playback “forms” to you. Our most important aim in Playback is to honour the teller (the person sharing their story), which means listen respectfully, don’t embellish your ideas onto their character, and don’t judge them if you don’t agree with them. Bear in mind that our rehearsal offers us time to reflect, and deconstruct what occurs, so is different from a polished gig.

We in Playback Theatre embrace the unfolding of life and the inherent spontaneity of people and communities within their cultural, social and political contexts. We recognize the universal longing for affirmation and connection with others. The spontaneous enactment of personal experience in Playback Theatre builds connection between people by honoring the dignity, drama, and universality of their stories - from the International Playback Community’s Vision Statement

Say YES, I think you'll enjoy it!

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I spent over 20 years, answering my calling as a Midwife, guiding, supporting, and coaching, to help bring new life into the world.

A life-changing sudden illness, led to me leaving my calling and finding my purpose. Discovering my voice as a speaker and storyteller, sharing a message and empowering others to speak up, step up and share their stories.

I continue to bring new life into the world, guiding, supporting and coaching. This time in the form of stories as "The Story Midwife". 

If you would like help to create your signature story or you want to learn the art of storytelling to make an impact in your business presentations then let’s chat to see if we are a fit [email protected] or call me on +61 438 902042

 

 

 

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