Improv Scene Basics: Creating a Character

Creating a character is a ton of fun. You get to completely define who you're going to be and what you're capable of! You can give yourself superpowers, be a talking animal, or become the richest human being alive. Unless you're Superman, Flounder, or Bill Gates, your character probably isn't exactly the same as you. But it's very easy to fall into the trap of forgetting your character over the course of the scene (especially if it hasn't been assigned to you). By the end of the scene, it's YOU finding your way out of the forest, breaking out of jail, or taking a tour of the floor factory. While this can definitely work, it's not quite as fun or advanced. If you're comfortable taking your improv to the next level, here are some handy questions to keep in mind for creating your character.

-What's your character's name? What does that name say about you?

-Where is your character from? Another town? Another country? Another planet?

-How was your character raised? Were you teased? Are you insecure about anything?

-How does your character stand? Are their shoulders hunched? Do they stand tall and proud?

-What's your character's personality? Are you a know-it-all? Are you sneaky? Are you eager?

-What are your goals? If the world worked your way, what would it be like?

-How old are you? Did you see the fall of Rome? Are you in preschool?

-What are your hobbies? What do you like to do? Homework? Rock collecting? Archery?

-What clothes are you wearing? What do those clothes say about you? How do they feel?

-Is there a gesture or facial expression you're known for? Why do you make it?

-How does your character walk? What speed? Is there a limp?

These are just a few of the ways you can bring your character to life. Obviously, you don't always have time to think all of these through in the few seconds between the audience's suggestions and the beginning of your scene. But if you can define even a few of these, you've created something engrossing for the audience to enjoy. You'll also notice the scene become a lot easier. There are more places you can go as a character than just as yourself! You get new ideas and discover ways to solve the conflict--plus the audience will just eat it up.

In fact, Chris Farley, who was a very famous actor, got his start because of his renowned character improv. He joined Second City and rose quickly through the ranks until he was on the Mainstage--and it was because he could create those well-rounded characters. In fact, there was one improv scene he did as a waiter to a couple on a date when he first started on the Mainstage . The couple was fairly normal, but he was an incredibly depressed waiter. Everything he did was with an air of hopelessness and the audience couldn't get enough. They hadn't given him this quirk, he just came up with it on his own. Don't be afraid to go for it onstage like he did! (Fun fact: did you know Chris Farley's famous SNL sketch "Livin' in a VAN down by the RIVER" was born on the Second City stage?)

Best of luck shaping your characters! Perhaps your character can come with you to school or work tomorrow...

-Allie