Do you ever see your life through the lens of a movie? What kind of movie would it be? Romantic comedy? Silent film? Horror? (I hope not!)
In today's Quick Improv Game, you get to embody several genres in the scene you perform. How, you ask? It's quite simple! Just play this fun game known by many names: Genre Replay, aka Scene Three Ways!
Start your scene like it's any normal improv scene with one or two others. You can ask for whatever you like from the audience--relationship, conflict, location, the usual. Perform a short scene for them. But you have to remember each step you take in this scene!
When you're done, take a short bow. But then say to the audience, "How would you like to see that scene done differently? What genre should that scene be in now?" Get a genre suggestion from the audience, and redo that exact same scene as if it were from a movie in that genre! Don't be afraid to change lines, aspects of your character, and certain steps from your escalating tactics. As long as it's a similar scene in essence, have fun with it!
Finish up your new version amid laughter and applause. But ask for yet another genre this time! If you can, make it as different a genre as possible from the previous scene, just to keep things interesting. Again, don't be afraid to play with your givens this round! Wrap it up in a vaguely similar way and enjoy the raucous applause.
What are some genres that you can expect from the audience? Well, don't expect them to stay limited to movie genres! There's...
-Action
-Three Stooges
-Shakespeare (harder than you'd think!)
-Musical (also hard, but worth it if you can stumble your way through!)
-Cooking Show
-After School Special
-Anime
-Soap Opera
-Music Video
And many more! And don't be afraid to try a genre that you aren't too familiar with. Sometimes you get the best scenes that way!
Have you played this game? What were some of your favorite genres? How did you adapt your scene?
Showing posts with label for kids. Show all posts
Showing posts with label for kids. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Monday, November 7, 2011
Improv Scene Basics: Finding a Conflict
When it comes to improv, one of the most important things you need to establish in your scene is a conflict. (In real life, this is a little less desirable.) No conflict = nothing to do. Nothing to do = a boring scene for your audience. And we certainly can't have that!
In some games, it's much easier to figure out your conflict because it's given to you. For example, in Party Quirks, the conflict is the need to figure out who the guests are. But in a game like Genre Replay (aka Scene Three Ways), it's absolutely crucial to find your conflict. When you redo your scene, the audience will know what to look forward to and you will have something to work with.
So how do you go about finding your conflict? Well, sometimes it's given to you by the audience. Your emcee might ask specifically for a conflict ("There are no paper towels left in the house!"), or it might be obvious in your character or setting suggestion ("Teacher and disruptive student!" "In a volcano!"). But that doesn't happen too often, so it's best not to count on it.
Take your givens--whatever your suggestions are from the audience as well as the confines of the game. If it's Genre Replay, remember you'll be doing your scene again in a different style. If it's Freeze, remember you'll need to keep it short and include some wild poses and gestures for your fellow teammates. The rules of the game should help you rather than hinder you in terms of what you need to do and how to do it.
The next step is a logical one for any improviser: think, "How can I take what I know and cause some drama?" No matter how normal or wacky your givens may be, all you have to do is figure out what might throw things off.
Let's do an example. Say you're doing a basic open scene (no rules) and your suggestion is a relationship, so you and your scene partner are neighbors. What could be the problem?
-Each neighbor's lawn has grass of a different height
-A ball is in one neighbor's yard, but the other neighbor isn't allowed to retrieve it.
-The water isn't working, so neither can shower, water the lawn, or wash their hands.
-Whose flowers will win the garden show???
-A stray dog dug holes in everyone's yard--and uncovered some buried treasure
These are all simple ideas that can turn a basic scene into a grand adventure. You can even be inspired by your own life (the "no water" idea happened to my dad and his neighbors). Taking steps to resolve that conflict is your next step--but that's another blog post.
For anyone but the experts, we highly recommend keeping the conflict external (which means your conflict shouldn't be BETWEEN you and your fellow improvisers). If you and your partner aren't allowed to work together to find a solution, much of what improv builds upon is lost. The beauty of each scene is that you get through it with teamwork as well as building from everyone's imagination. It's hard for you, your partner, and the audience to get through a scene filled with animosity.
We would wish you luck in your scenes, but you won't need it. Finding the conflict is easier than you think. Just relax and play. You'll be surprised how conflicts can come naturally out of your givens.
In some games, it's much easier to figure out your conflict because it's given to you. For example, in Party Quirks, the conflict is the need to figure out who the guests are. But in a game like Genre Replay (aka Scene Three Ways), it's absolutely crucial to find your conflict. When you redo your scene, the audience will know what to look forward to and you will have something to work with.
So how do you go about finding your conflict? Well, sometimes it's given to you by the audience. Your emcee might ask specifically for a conflict ("There are no paper towels left in the house!"), or it might be obvious in your character or setting suggestion ("Teacher and disruptive student!" "In a volcano!"). But that doesn't happen too often, so it's best not to count on it.
Take your givens--whatever your suggestions are from the audience as well as the confines of the game. If it's Genre Replay, remember you'll be doing your scene again in a different style. If it's Freeze, remember you'll need to keep it short and include some wild poses and gestures for your fellow teammates. The rules of the game should help you rather than hinder you in terms of what you need to do and how to do it.
The next step is a logical one for any improviser: think, "How can I take what I know and cause some drama?" No matter how normal or wacky your givens may be, all you have to do is figure out what might throw things off.
Let's do an example. Say you're doing a basic open scene (no rules) and your suggestion is a relationship, so you and your scene partner are neighbors. What could be the problem?
-Each neighbor's lawn has grass of a different height
-A ball is in one neighbor's yard, but the other neighbor isn't allowed to retrieve it.
-The water isn't working, so neither can shower, water the lawn, or wash their hands.
-Whose flowers will win the garden show???
-A stray dog dug holes in everyone's yard--and uncovered some buried treasure
These are all simple ideas that can turn a basic scene into a grand adventure. You can even be inspired by your own life (the "no water" idea happened to my dad and his neighbors). Taking steps to resolve that conflict is your next step--but that's another blog post.
For anyone but the experts, we highly recommend keeping the conflict external (which means your conflict shouldn't be BETWEEN you and your fellow improvisers). If you and your partner aren't allowed to work together to find a solution, much of what improv builds upon is lost. The beauty of each scene is that you get through it with teamwork as well as building from everyone's imagination. It's hard for you, your partner, and the audience to get through a scene filled with animosity.
We would wish you luck in your scenes, but you won't need it. Finding the conflict is easier than you think. Just relax and play. You'll be surprised how conflicts can come naturally out of your givens.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Halloween Improv Games
Are you throwing a Halloween party? Need some spooooooky games to play? Well, you've come to the right place. Some of these are scary on their own, and for some all you need is a haunting suggestion!
Chain Murder: Three people go out of the room, and while they're gone, one person sees a MURDER! The first person is told the murder's location, the occupation of the victim, and the weapon used (remember these with the acronym LOW). Person #2 comes in from outside, and the first person needs to tell the second what happened--but they both speak gibberish! Once the second person has learned the LOW-down, they MURDER the first person! The third person from outside the room comes in, and second person needs to tell the third person what happened. Once he/she figures it out, the third MURDERS the second! The fourth comes in and finds out what happened from the third. Once the fourth person finds out, he/she MURDERS the third! Then all four need to tell the audience what they think the location, occupation, and weapon were. It ends up being like the game telephone--it's never the same! (This description makes the game sound very complicated, but don't worry, it's not hard at all!)
Spooky Party Quirks: Party Quirks is an improv classic! One person is the host of the party, and they leave the room. Three other people are guests at the party, but each one gets a strange quirk or identity from the audience. For this Halloween version, think monsters, ghosts, or Voldemort! Once the guests know who they are, the host comes back in and throws a party! The host needs to figure out who the scary guests are...before they get him!
Zombies: This starts out like a normal improv game--you get any basic scene suggestions from the audience that you want (location, relationship, conflict, the usual). But at any point, another player who isn't in the scene can MURDER one of the other people in it and take their place! Anyone who gets murdered has to stay on the floor until someone yells "ZOMBIES!" Then they can get up and go back to their seat, but only if they move like a zombie.
Horror Freeze: Two people start a scene, but it has to be Halloween-themed! At any point, someone else can yell "FREEZE!" The two people have to freeze, and the new person taps out one of the two and starts a new scene based on the position they were in. But again, keep it all Halloween-themed! Perhaps there's a visit to a graveyard, or a spooky mansion, or Dracula!
Whatever you do for your Halloween party, be safe and have lots of fun! Halloween is a great time to play games and have lots of fun. And candy.
Also, if you want a spook, come see the Improv Playhouse Radio Players perform DRACULA, this Saturday night at our black box! Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors, students, and military at the door, but if you come in a costume, you get $2 off. Join us for either of two shows at 7:30 or 9:00 pm. We'll see you there...and so will the Count...
Chain Murder: Three people go out of the room, and while they're gone, one person sees a MURDER! The first person is told the murder's location, the occupation of the victim, and the weapon used (remember these with the acronym LOW). Person #2 comes in from outside, and the first person needs to tell the second what happened--but they both speak gibberish! Once the second person has learned the LOW-down, they MURDER the first person! The third person from outside the room comes in, and second person needs to tell the third person what happened. Once he/she figures it out, the third MURDERS the second! The fourth comes in and finds out what happened from the third. Once the fourth person finds out, he/she MURDERS the third! Then all four need to tell the audience what they think the location, occupation, and weapon were. It ends up being like the game telephone--it's never the same! (This description makes the game sound very complicated, but don't worry, it's not hard at all!)
Spooky Party Quirks: Party Quirks is an improv classic! One person is the host of the party, and they leave the room. Three other people are guests at the party, but each one gets a strange quirk or identity from the audience. For this Halloween version, think monsters, ghosts, or Voldemort! Once the guests know who they are, the host comes back in and throws a party! The host needs to figure out who the scary guests are...before they get him!
Zombies: This starts out like a normal improv game--you get any basic scene suggestions from the audience that you want (location, relationship, conflict, the usual). But at any point, another player who isn't in the scene can MURDER one of the other people in it and take their place! Anyone who gets murdered has to stay on the floor until someone yells "ZOMBIES!" Then they can get up and go back to their seat, but only if they move like a zombie.
Horror Freeze: Two people start a scene, but it has to be Halloween-themed! At any point, someone else can yell "FREEZE!" The two people have to freeze, and the new person taps out one of the two and starts a new scene based on the position they were in. But again, keep it all Halloween-themed! Perhaps there's a visit to a graveyard, or a spooky mansion, or Dracula!
Whatever you do for your Halloween party, be safe and have lots of fun! Halloween is a great time to play games and have lots of fun. And candy.
Also, if you want a spook, come see the Improv Playhouse Radio Players perform DRACULA, this Saturday night at our black box! Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors, students, and military at the door, but if you come in a costume, you get $2 off. Join us for either of two shows at 7:30 or 9:00 pm. We'll see you there...and so will the Count...
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Quick Improv Games: Press Conference
Good morning on this dreary, drizzly day!
Want to shake these gray-day doldrums? Try a fun improv game that has quickly become a favorite of the class I'm currently teaching--Press Conference!
This is a fun guessing game that where everyone can get a turn. As with all of the games in our Quick Improv series, the premise is simple: one person leaves the room (or if you're on a car trip, covers their ears) and everyone else decides who they are. The person returns to the room (or uncovers their ears) and is immediately the star of a press conference. Everyone else is a reporter--and it's their job to help the guesser figure out who they are through the questions asked.
Now this seems easy, but if you want to have maximum fun, the reporters have to be very clever. They must use our favorite improv technique: escalating tactics! This means starting off with clues that may not be obvious right away and working up to the more revealing ones.
Let's do an example. Say the reporters decide the speaker is Mickey Mouse...
The guesser also has a lot to keep track of. They need to answer the questions while not knowing who they are! If our guesser is still Mickey Mouse and the question is "Why do you like hanging out with a duck and a dog?"....
If you're the guesser, try working your guess into an answer! Instead of "Am I Mickey Mouse?", try "I love cheese because I'm Mickey Mouse!"
Have lots of fun! If you want an extra challenge, add an extra step: the guesser has to figure out who they are AND what they did! Whether you're Peter Pan or Voldemort, this game is lots of fun.
-Allie
Want to shake these gray-day doldrums? Try a fun improv game that has quickly become a favorite of the class I'm currently teaching--Press Conference!
This is a fun guessing game that where everyone can get a turn. As with all of the games in our Quick Improv series, the premise is simple: one person leaves the room (or if you're on a car trip, covers their ears) and everyone else decides who they are. The person returns to the room (or uncovers their ears) and is immediately the star of a press conference. Everyone else is a reporter--and it's their job to help the guesser figure out who they are through the questions asked.
Now this seems easy, but if you want to have maximum fun, the reporters have to be very clever. They must use our favorite improv technique: escalating tactics! This means starting off with clues that may not be obvious right away and working up to the more revealing ones.
Let's do an example. Say the reporters decide the speaker is Mickey Mouse...
Bad first question: "How do you like being the mascot of Disney?" (This gives it away far too quickly.)
Good first question: "Do your big ears help you hear?" (This tells the guesser a little bit about who they are, but it could still go in many different directions!)
Bad question: "Tell us about your friends." (This puts the guesser in a terrible position! They don't know who they are yet and can't get any information out of this. They would also have to make up an answer that will throw everyone off track.)
Good question: "Why do you like hanging out with a duck and a dog?" (This gives them information while letting them answer in a way that will make sure the game keeps going in a good way!)
The guesser also has a lot to keep track of. They need to answer the questions while not knowing who they are! If our guesser is still Mickey Mouse and the question is "Why do you like hanging out with a duck and a dog?"....
Bad answer: "Ummmmmmmmmmmmm....'cuz."
Good answer: "Well, they make for good company. I can count on them to catch flies and chase cats."
If you're the guesser, try working your guess into an answer! Instead of "Am I Mickey Mouse?", try "I love cheese because I'm Mickey Mouse!"
Have lots of fun! If you want an extra challenge, add an extra step: the guesser has to figure out who they are AND what they did! Whether you're Peter Pan or Voldemort, this game is lots of fun.
-Allie
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
What Do Theatre Majors Do?
Many of my students have expressed interest to me in becoming a professional actor someday, and furthering their theatre education by majoring in theatre when they reach college age. However, very few of them seem to really understand what that entails. In fact, I didn’t really myself until my parents and I started researching different schools. Below, you’ll find my account of what being a theatre major at Butler University is like. I hope this will help to demystify the world of higher theatre education.
To get into a theatre program, most colleges and universities require you to audition. You will perform one of two memorized monologues, depending on the school, and most likely interview with several professors, attend a theatre class or workshop, and meet with students already in the theatre program.
Once accepted, you will devote a great deal of time to performing in addition to your course load, which means that being a theatre major is very time consuming. You will probably be required to audition for a few mainstage shows per year, which are produced by the university and your professors. If you don’t make these productions—even if you do—you will most likely be required to do some sort of crew to help with the show. Crew hours can actually be very fun in addition to being extremely educational.
As first and second year theatre majors, younger students who don’t make mainstages often build up experience and establish reputations as good performers in student shows. These shows are directed and designed by students, but since your professors will almost always attend the performances of these shows, they’re a great way to get your face out there. They’re also a wonderful way to make friends.
If your school is by a big city, like Butler is, than you may also have to opportunity to audition at professional theatres, and begin your career as an actor while you are still in school. In addition, many students intern in fields such as stage management, artistic design, and dramaturgy.
When you aren’t working crew or rehearsing, you will be doing homework and preparing for classes. Most schools have academic requirements for all their students, including theatre majors, but you will also attend theatre classes. Courses include classes like Acting, Voice for the Actor (a study in elocution and projection), and Stage Movement (a practical study of how the actor can employ their body in their work), but also ones that focus on design elements like Costume Design, Lighting Design, and Production Fundamentals. While most theatre classes involve practical, hands-on work, students may find themselves behind desks, involved in classroom discussions with professors and fellow theatre majors in courses like the History of Theatre and the Idea of Theatre.
All in all, being a theatre major is hard work, but it is also incredibly rewarding. You become a part of a community of peers and make friends you will have for the rest of your life. Professors have so much to offer and serve as mentors who will shape the kind of actor and person you become. Don’t worry—if for some reason, you decide not to major in theatre, most schools allow non-majors to audition for many, if not all, shows. If you want to do theatre, you can always find a way!
Note: Musical theatre majors would have a different audition process and course load that of course includes singing and dancing lessons.
Guest blogger Shannon Campe is imProv Playhouse’s Resident Dramaturge. She has worked as both a teacher and an actress during her ten years at iP, where credits include The Glass Menagerie (Amanda), Blithe Spirit (Elvira), and Alice in Wonderland (Alice.) She is currently studying Theatre and Creative Writing at Butler University in Indianapolis.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Audition Secrets from the People Who Cast You...SHHH!
Auditions are scary, whether you’re a student actor, a theatre major, or a professional actor! An actor must learn a monologue, perform with a complete stranger, pick up a dance on the fly, or even sing a song, depending on what kind of show he or she is auditioning for. As an actor, I’ve always dreaded auditions, but as a teacher, I enjoy them. I love seeing what young performers have to bring to a production. To help keep nerves a bay, here are a few things to keep in mind when you audition, pulled from my own experience casting and being cast:
1) Attitude is everything. Directors want to work with actors who are cheerful, enthusiastic,
and helpful. Show the directors that you can be a team player by treating both them and
your fellow performers with the respect and compassion they deserve.
2) Be loud! Just because it’s not a performance doesn’t mean that you can be lazy with your
projection. If we can’t hear you, we won’t want you to cast you in a leading role.
3) Don’t apologize if you fumble a line or mess up a dance move. We know that you’re a
nervous and everyone makes mistakes. We would rather see you keeping trying—“The
show must go on!”
4) Be prepared. You will probably not be expected to have lines memorized for your audition,
but if you’ve been asked to prepared a monologue or a song, you should know that
monologue and/or song like the back of your hand. I also recommend knowing something
about the show going in, so that if you cold-read a scene, you have some idea of what it’s
about. If you continue acting at a college of professional level, they will most likely expect
you to have read the entire play beforehand!
5) Don’t be a gossip. This piece of advice ties very closely into number one. When another
performer is auditioning, you should be a quiet and respectful audience member. If you get
caught whispering with a friend or rolling your eyes during another actor’s audition, not
only does it have the potential to hurt that performer’s feelings, we directors will most likely
notice it, and it will negatively affect your chances.
6) Take care of yourself. Get a good night’s sleep the night before you audition, and make
sure you’ve had plenty to eat. Always bring a water to drink so that you are hydrated. Wear
comfortable clothes (especially if you have to dance) and shoes that won’t trip you up.
7) Most importantly, remember that the people casting you are most likely performers as
well, who understand how nerve-wracking auditions can be. We aren’t looking to pick your
performance apart; we want to see you succeed! In addition, we always hope that you will
enjoy the role we cast you in. A good director will never put you in a part to spite you or
hurt your feelings, and just because we don’t cast you in the lead doesn’t mean we don’t
like you or we didn’t enjoy your performance.
Break a leg!
Guest blogger Shannon Campe is imProv Playhouse’s Resident Dramaturge. She has worked as both a teacher and an actress during her ten years at iP, where credits include The Glass Menagerie (Amanda), Blithe Spirit (Elvira), and Alice in Wonderland (Alice.) She is currently studying Theatre and Creative Writing at Butler University in Indianapolis.
1) Attitude is everything. Directors want to work with actors who are cheerful, enthusiastic,
and helpful. Show the directors that you can be a team player by treating both them and
your fellow performers with the respect and compassion they deserve.
2) Be loud! Just because it’s not a performance doesn’t mean that you can be lazy with your
projection. If we can’t hear you, we won’t want you to cast you in a leading role.
3) Don’t apologize if you fumble a line or mess up a dance move. We know that you’re a
nervous and everyone makes mistakes. We would rather see you keeping trying—“The
show must go on!”
4) Be prepared. You will probably not be expected to have lines memorized for your audition,
but if you’ve been asked to prepared a monologue or a song, you should know that
monologue and/or song like the back of your hand. I also recommend knowing something
about the show going in, so that if you cold-read a scene, you have some idea of what it’s
about. If you continue acting at a college of professional level, they will most likely expect
you to have read the entire play beforehand!
5) Don’t be a gossip. This piece of advice ties very closely into number one. When another
performer is auditioning, you should be a quiet and respectful audience member. If you get
caught whispering with a friend or rolling your eyes during another actor’s audition, not
only does it have the potential to hurt that performer’s feelings, we directors will most likely
notice it, and it will negatively affect your chances.
6) Take care of yourself. Get a good night’s sleep the night before you audition, and make
sure you’ve had plenty to eat. Always bring a water to drink so that you are hydrated. Wear
comfortable clothes (especially if you have to dance) and shoes that won’t trip you up.
7) Most importantly, remember that the people casting you are most likely performers as
well, who understand how nerve-wracking auditions can be. We aren’t looking to pick your
performance apart; we want to see you succeed! In addition, we always hope that you will
enjoy the role we cast you in. A good director will never put you in a part to spite you or
hurt your feelings, and just because we don’t cast you in the lead doesn’t mean we don’t
like you or we didn’t enjoy your performance.
Break a leg!
Guest blogger Shannon Campe is imProv Playhouse’s Resident Dramaturge. She has worked as both a teacher and an actress during her ten years at iP, where credits include The Glass Menagerie (Amanda), Blithe Spirit (Elvira), and Alice in Wonderland (Alice.) She is currently studying Theatre and Creative Writing at Butler University in Indianapolis.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Stage Fright!
As many of you are aware, last week Improv Playhouse had the honor of hosting the revered Hollywood acting coach Diane Christiansen. I've known about this annual event since I started here about two months ago, but I didn't really know what it would be like. As the time got closer, excitement built and the registrations continued to fly in. I had an inkling that this might be big news.
For those of you who are learning about this for the first time, this set of week-long workshops were for children, teenagers, and adults. Diane was to provide professional tips for acting and auditioning (because you certainly can't work on a part if you can't land said part) in individual workshops for each age group and then coach them through a combined workshop and a showcase for family, friends, and invited agents. Diane is no small-time coach, either: her credentials come in the form of actors placed on almost every TV show imaginable and many movies. This includes Lost, Glee, Arrested Development, and recently Hailee Steinfeld, the 16-year-old Oscar nominee and general scene-stealer in 2010's True Grit. Both my and Keanu Reeves' reactions were simple: Woah.
I was all set to be Diane's assistant the first two nights and was looking forward to watching her in awe while she was in her element. Then I found out I needed to drive her to and from her hotel on the second night. My first reaction was of course willingness to help out, but then I got nervous. I'd be spending a good amount of time alone with a famous Hollywood acting coach. What would I say? What would I do? What if I got us lost even with my GPS? What should I wear? What if I smell bad? What if she jumps from my car at highway speeds and catches a cab to avoid my inane conversation? She seemed very nice on the first night, so I had no rational basis for my nervousness, but rationality is not necessarily a specialty of Theater majors.
I left my house with plenty of time to spare--partially to claw my way through rush hour and a number of stoplights being out from the freak storm of the day before, and partially so I could get my jitters out in a normal way (which of course consisted of singing along with various showtunes at the top of my lungs). I arrived at the hotel in one piece and very early, called Diane to let her know I was ready whenever she was (but of course to take as much time as she needs), and settled in the lobby to hold my book in front of me while my eyes darted all over. After a few minutes I heard a kind "Hello, Allie!" and was thanked for the ride with a hug to boot.
Well, this didn't seem so scary. I had thought up a few conversation starters in preparation for the ride, but found myself with no need for them. Not only was Diane incredibly friendly and conversational, she was genuinely interested in me and the stories I had to tell. Of the two of us, I firmly believe she is the more interesting one, so I was floored that she was so amiable. By the end of the night, we had learned quite a lot about each other, gone out for a delicious snack at Mickey Finn's with Tony, and shared an inside joke. She was kind enough to give me some pointers and we're even friends on Facebook.
My point, I suppose, is that I'm quite happy to dismantle a portion of the stereotype that people from Hollywood are elitist snobs. Diane was not only an excellent resource to the aspiring actors and actresses of Improv Playhouse, but she is an incredibly fun person as well. I was even disappointed that I wasn't able to assist with the rest of the workshops. But that's what next year is for.
-Allie
Are you interested in taking Diane's workshop next year? Join the Improv Playhouse mailing list by emailing office@improvplayhouse.com to be kept updated!
For those of you who are learning about this for the first time, this set of week-long workshops were for children, teenagers, and adults. Diane was to provide professional tips for acting and auditioning (because you certainly can't work on a part if you can't land said part) in individual workshops for each age group and then coach them through a combined workshop and a showcase for family, friends, and invited agents. Diane is no small-time coach, either: her credentials come in the form of actors placed on almost every TV show imaginable and many movies. This includes Lost, Glee, Arrested Development, and recently Hailee Steinfeld, the 16-year-old Oscar nominee and general scene-stealer in 2010's True Grit. Both my and Keanu Reeves' reactions were simple: Woah.
I was all set to be Diane's assistant the first two nights and was looking forward to watching her in awe while she was in her element. Then I found out I needed to drive her to and from her hotel on the second night. My first reaction was of course willingness to help out, but then I got nervous. I'd be spending a good amount of time alone with a famous Hollywood acting coach. What would I say? What would I do? What if I got us lost even with my GPS? What should I wear? What if I smell bad? What if she jumps from my car at highway speeds and catches a cab to avoid my inane conversation? She seemed very nice on the first night, so I had no rational basis for my nervousness, but rationality is not necessarily a specialty of Theater majors.
I left my house with plenty of time to spare--partially to claw my way through rush hour and a number of stoplights being out from the freak storm of the day before, and partially so I could get my jitters out in a normal way (which of course consisted of singing along with various showtunes at the top of my lungs). I arrived at the hotel in one piece and very early, called Diane to let her know I was ready whenever she was (but of course to take as much time as she needs), and settled in the lobby to hold my book in front of me while my eyes darted all over. After a few minutes I heard a kind "Hello, Allie!" and was thanked for the ride with a hug to boot.
Well, this didn't seem so scary. I had thought up a few conversation starters in preparation for the ride, but found myself with no need for them. Not only was Diane incredibly friendly and conversational, she was genuinely interested in me and the stories I had to tell. Of the two of us, I firmly believe she is the more interesting one, so I was floored that she was so amiable. By the end of the night, we had learned quite a lot about each other, gone out for a delicious snack at Mickey Finn's with Tony, and shared an inside joke. She was kind enough to give me some pointers and we're even friends on Facebook.
My point, I suppose, is that I'm quite happy to dismantle a portion of the stereotype that people from Hollywood are elitist snobs. Diane was not only an excellent resource to the aspiring actors and actresses of Improv Playhouse, but she is an incredibly fun person as well. I was even disappointed that I wasn't able to assist with the rest of the workshops. But that's what next year is for.
-Allie
Are you interested in taking Diane's workshop next year? Join the Improv Playhouse mailing list by emailing office@improvplayhouse.com to be kept updated!
Movie Night!
I believe that one of the best things a student actor can do to educate themselves about the theatre is to go to see professional plays and musicals. Some of my favorite family memories include trips to the theatre with my parents and younger brother, an athletic type who ended up enjoying musicals like Wicked and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. That being said, a trip to the theatre is often expensive, and may require a time-consuming trip to the city. With that in mind, I have created a list of fun movies based on stage musicals that young actors and their families may enjoy watching and even learn something from.
- Fiddler on the Roof has won a slew of awards both onscreen and onstage. It is the perfect balance of humor and drama. Topol’s iconic performance as Tevye, a Jewish peasant living in Russia just before the turn of the century is incredibly touching, and his struggle to keep his family together is one we can all relate to. Popular songs from this musical include “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Tradition,” and “Matchmaker, Matchmaker.” I recommend it for ages ten and up.
- West Side Story is the gold standard of movie musicals. Catchy numbers like “Jet Song,” America,” and “Cool” will get stuck in your head for days! Young dancers will be impressed by all the amazing choreography, and although this gangland America story is an adaption of “Romeo and Juliet,” the story is often funny and exciting. I recommend it for ages twelve and up.
- Bugsy Malone is a little-known movie musical that, while American, is actually very popular across the pond and was adapted for a stage performance on the West End in London. Child actors, including young Jodie Foster and Scott Baio, play 1930s gangers and showgirls embroiled in a fight between two rival gangsters—a food fight, that is! This is a great family movie that kids will love and parents will find amusing. I recommend it for ages six and up.
- The Phantom of the Opera is one of the most popular Broadway musicals of all time. The story of opera ingénue Christine and the mysterious man who teaches her sing has everything a show needs: passion, intrigue, humor, and romance. Many of the songs have attained status as absolute musical theatre classics…you may find yourself humming along to “Think of Me,” “Angel of Music,” “All I Ask of You,” and, of course, the unforgettable Phantom theme. Since this movie contains some scary moments, I recommend it for ages twelve and up, and a parent or guardian may want to watch this movie with their young actor.
- CATS holds the record for longest-running musical. The great thing about this movie is that is simply a taping of the live stage show…you will truly feel like you are in the theater when you watch it! A combination of beautiful dance and incredible acrobatics bring songs like “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats,” “The Rum Tum Tugger,” and “Memory” to life. While this movie is appropriate for all ages, younger viewers may be frightened by the actors’ cat makeup, so I recommend that parents assess their child’s comfort level before showing the film.
- High school age actors may want to check out the following musical movies, but as they contain more adult-oriented material, I recommend that parents screen them first to make sure they are age-appropriate: Chicago, Company, Hair, Rent, and Sweeney Todd. All five are excellent films with amazing performances, and musical theatre actors may find some new tunes that suit their voices for auditions.
Thanks to popular movies like the High School Musical franchise and the television show GLEE, movie musicals are having a major comeback! Upcoming Hollywood musical movies include adaptions of Wicked, In the Heights, and Spring Awakening. Who knows, maybe your favorite play will be next!
Guest blogger Shannon Campe is imProv Playhouse’s Resident Dramaturge. She has worked as both a teacher and an actress during her ten years at iP, where credits include The Glass Menagerie (Amanda), Blithe Spirit (Elvira), and Alice in Wonderland (Alice.) She is currently studying Theatre and Creative Writing at Butler University in Indianapolis.
Friday, July 15, 2011
You're a. . . What?
When we are young, most student actors are involved in all parts of the process: the same director or teacher may block us in scenes, teach us our songs, help us pull together costumes, and show us how to paint the set. Although we hopefully realize that the backstage elements are important in creating our show, we think of all theatre people as falling into two very general categories: those who work onstage, and those who work backstage.
The amazing thing about theatre is that there are so many jobs available to creative people. I didn’t even realize until I got older and started studying theatre at a college level how many careers are available in the world of theatre.
A good example of one of these jobs, which bridges the world between “onstage” and “backstage”, is a dramaturge. Those of you who read my last blog entry or recent Improv Playhouse flyers may have noticed that I’m billed as our dramaturge. It’s such an unusual and funny-sounding word, and not very many people know what it means.
Most professional theatres have a resident dramaturge who works at the company full-time. A dramaturge researches each play the theatre produces, and works closely with the director and the designers to help create the world of the play, using historical and cultural context. The dramaturge also gives the actors notes to help inform their performances. In many cases, the dramaturge also writes program notes to help audiences understand everything they see onstage. They may also create educational material for the benefit of young audiences and their teachers.
Remember, if you want to work in the theatre, it is absolutely possible! It takes many people to put a show together. Who knows…the job you have someday may be one you haven’t even heard of yet!
Guest blogger Shannon Campe is Improv Playhouse’s Resident Dramaturge. She has worked as both a teacher and an actress during her ten years at iP, where credits include The Glass Menagerie (Amanda), Blithe Spirit (Elvira), and Alice in Wonderland (Alice.) She is currently studying Theatre and Creative Writing at Butler University in Indianapolis.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Allstate Improv @ Improv Playhouse!
Hello, fans of Improv Playhouse!
We are so pleased to announce that this Saturday (July 16, 2011) at 3:00pm, the Illinois Allstate Improv Team will be performing in our Black Box Theater! This is a team that is carefully selected at the Illinois High School Theater Festival and they are amazing! They perform for the entire festival just hours after being cast, and they headlined at Chicago's Teen Comedy Fest as well. We can't wait to have them here... but we also can't wait for you to see them!
Need another reason to see the show? Check out Allstate Team Performer and Improv Playhouse student Brady Richter rock the Black Box!
For more info, check out their Facebook event!
--Monkey # 4 & Tony
We are so pleased to announce that this Saturday (July 16, 2011) at 3:00pm, the Illinois Allstate Improv Team will be performing in our Black Box Theater! This is a team that is carefully selected at the Illinois High School Theater Festival and they are amazing! They perform for the entire festival just hours after being cast, and they headlined at Chicago's Teen Comedy Fest as well. We can't wait to have them here... but we also can't wait for you to see them!
Need another reason to see the show? Check out Allstate Team Performer and Improv Playhouse student Brady Richter rock the Black Box!
For more info, check out their Facebook event!
--Monkey # 4 & Tony
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Quick Improv Games: Experts
I recently re-discovered one of the simplest and yet most fun improv games: Experts. This is a game that takes about four seconds to explain...but I can guarantee you (and, if you have them, your youngin's) will want to play for significantly longer!
Here's how it works: three people (or two, if you lack the numbers) are Experts. Trouble is, one always gives good advice, one always gives bad advice, and one always gives the worst advice. Everyone else gets to take turns asking questions to the experts to see what they have to say! And naturally, the experts can switch between themselves and with all the other players so everyone can get a turn answering and asking.
Here's an example of how it might go:
Audience Member: "Experts, I need some advice. My cat is stuck in a tree! How can I get her down?"
Good Advice: "You should call the fire department. They're great at helping cats!"
Bad Advice: "You should throw a rope up to your cat and tell her to climb down it."
Worst Advice: "You should send a whole zoo of animals up the tree to get her back down. Dogs, zebras, bears...everyone knows how helpful they are!"
Everyone loves dispensing advice...might as well have some fun with it!
--Monkey # 8 & Allie
Here's how it works: three people (or two, if you lack the numbers) are Experts. Trouble is, one always gives good advice, one always gives bad advice, and one always gives the worst advice. Everyone else gets to take turns asking questions to the experts to see what they have to say! And naturally, the experts can switch between themselves and with all the other players so everyone can get a turn answering and asking.
Here's an example of how it might go:
Audience Member: "Experts, I need some advice. My cat is stuck in a tree! How can I get her down?"
Good Advice: "You should call the fire department. They're great at helping cats!"
Bad Advice: "You should throw a rope up to your cat and tell her to climb down it."
Worst Advice: "You should send a whole zoo of animals up the tree to get her back down. Dogs, zebras, bears...everyone knows how helpful they are!"
Everyone loves dispensing advice...might as well have some fun with it!
--Monkey # 8 & Allie
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Thanks from IP!
I mentioned that Improv Playhouse joined in the Libertyville Days parade last weekend, and I'm happy to say it was a hit! Thanks to everyone who walked down Milwaukee with us, and to everyone dancing on the sides!
Our maintenance monkey # 12 tells me we've got some exciting features about to go live in a couple of days, but we've also got a gag order about them for a moment, so you'll just have to hold your breath!
--Monkey #4
Our maintenance monkey # 12 tells me we've got some exciting features about to go live in a couple of days, but we've also got a gag order about them for a moment, so you'll just have to hold your breath!
--Monkey #4
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
All-New Camp DJ from our partners at Music Now!
Hey, this is the Mail-Room Monkey. # 11, they call me (you'd think a bunch of improvisers would have a cleverer naming system). Anyway, I just got a neat letter from IP's DJ division, Music Now DJ Group. The monkeys over there are super excited to share something with you, so I thought I'd pass it on:
"Hey, y'all! What's kickin'? We're all pumped on this end because Music Now is running its first-ever summer camp! Camp DJ is going to give teens and tweens ages 12-19 the opportunity for hands-on mixing experience. We've got professional equipment for each one of them, and real professional DJ's for coaches! Our campers are going to learn some basics of music theory as well as the technical production of sound, so they can mix their own jams with confidence. The last week of July is Camp DJ week, so spread the word!"
There's just tons of cool stuff going on all over the place, and the mail is only just starting to come in. I'll keep an eye out for any other interesting emails, cool comments, or events indirectly related to IP and share them with you. Until then!
--Monkey #11
There's just tons of cool stuff going on all over the place, and the mail is only just starting to come in. I'll keep an eye out for any other interesting emails, cool comments, or events indirectly related to IP and share them with you. Until then!
--Monkey #11
Monday, June 20, 2011
Diane Christiansen Visits July 11th!
Hey, movie fans, don't forget! We've got less than a month until our favorite LA star-maker comes to visit us this summer! Diane Christiansen is one of the best acting coaches and casting directors in the business, and if you don't believe us, check her out for yourself at www.dianechristiansen.com. Diane is in demand all over the United States acting scene, but she's been gracious enough to visit us at IP and coach her own special week-long class, Acting for Film, the week of July 11th. (Monkey #8 would like me to add that he took it last year, and vouches for it being the highlight of his summer.) Don't miss out on one of the best coaches Hollywood has to offer, at the best price you'll ever see!
Closer to today, the little chimps in our High School Musical camp are pumped to perform Disney's sensation for the stage Thursday, June 20th, at 1pm at Highland Middle School. I got to get a sneak peak at one of their rehearsals last week, and they are sounding good! Only $5 to come see them, and it's sure to be a blast.
So don't forget!
Monkey #4
Closer to today, the little chimps in our High School Musical camp are pumped to perform Disney's sensation for the stage Thursday, June 20th, at 1pm at Highland Middle School. I got to get a sneak peak at one of their rehearsals last week, and they are sounding good! Only $5 to come see them, and it's sure to be a blast.
So don't forget!
Monkey #4
Friday, June 17, 2011
Car Trip Games (Improv for the Sedentary)
Long car trips aren't the only place where you and the little chimps are stuck sitting for long periods without much else to do, but they are certainly the most infamous. Doctor's offices, long lines, waiting for dinner. . . the world is full of nightmare scenarios for any parent monkey with a restless litter. Rather than tossing your children out the window or bruising everyone's shoulders with punch-buggy madness, try these fun improv games! They're real warm-ups that don't require much physical movement, and they are much more fun than counting cars.
Next on Springer! : One player points or calls another's name and says a word of five letters or less (water, jog, leap). The named player then comes up with a silly sentence using the word as an acronym. (SOAP--silly orangutans ate peaches! or PINK--Polish iguanas need kelp!) Then that player points to a different player and says a new word.
Five Kinds Of : Fill in the blank: "Name five __________!" Next person in line does it, with everyone counting along (everyone should say, "one!" "two!" etc. as they count). You can use real categories (kinds of fruit! countries in Europe!), or made-up ones (horrible-sounding recipes! things you wouldn't want to find between your toes!). This is an improv game, so silly is good.
Foooour More Names! : The first person says "I know a guy/girl whose name is _________," and fills in the blank with a one-syllable name (Bill, Frank, Jan). Everyone then says/sings a line that ends with a rhyme. When three people have done it, repeat the first line with a different name. For instance:
"I know a girl whose name is Jan!"
"She hit me on the head with a pan!"
"But it's okay, I'm her biggest fan!"
"She keeps her money in a big tin can!"
Try these out, and tell us how it goes!
--Monkey #8
Next on Springer! : One player points or calls another's name and says a word of five letters or less (water, jog, leap). The named player then comes up with a silly sentence using the word as an acronym. (SOAP--silly orangutans ate peaches! or PINK--Polish iguanas need kelp!) Then that player points to a different player and says a new word.
Five Kinds Of : Fill in the blank: "Name five __________!" Next person in line does it, with everyone counting along (everyone should say, "one!" "two!" etc. as they count). You can use real categories (kinds of fruit! countries in Europe!), or made-up ones (horrible-sounding recipes! things you wouldn't want to find between your toes!). This is an improv game, so silly is good.
Foooour More Names! : The first person says "I know a guy/girl whose name is _________," and fills in the blank with a one-syllable name (Bill, Frank, Jan). Everyone then says/sings a line that ends with a rhyme. When three people have done it, repeat the first line with a different name. For instance:
"I know a girl whose name is Jan!"
"She hit me on the head with a pan!"
"But it's okay, I'm her biggest fan!"
"She keeps her money in a big tin can!"
Try these out, and tell us how it goes!
--Monkey #8
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Before the Parade Passes By!
Hey folks, I've got exciting news for you! We took a tip from our favorite musical, "Hello, Dolly!" and decided to walk in the Libertyville Days parade this Saturday! If you have one of IP's production T-shirts or a fun costume of your own, grab it and join us at 9:30 at the train station. (It's right next to the Black Box.) If not, we'll get you one. We all are looking forward to a great time, and we want you to join us. Be sure to pack sunglasses, a water bottle, and sunblock. Give us a call at (847) 968-4529 or email us at info@improvplayhouse.com. Can't wait to hear from you!
--Monkey #4
--Monkey #4
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)