Comedy Improvisation

Improvisation is a valuable skill for any performer, even if you plan to use only fully scripted material. There is always a possibility of something going wrong, and improvisation can dig you out of the hole. Likewise, comedy is a great training ground for performers because a good comedy scene has everything a good dramatic scene has, PLUS humor. This book, therefore, presents fun comic improvisation exercises and structures, ranging from the very simple and essential to the very sophisticated, which require considerable skill to pull off. Many of the improv exercises in this book are well suited to a classroom setting and could be a handy tool in training actors. In contrast, many of the scene structures are designed specifically for use in actual performance situations on stage. This comprehensive book has it all: the basics of improv, improvisation in the classroom, simple and advanced improv structures, character improv structures, advanced acting exercises, forming a comedy improv troupe, and putting on an improv show.

Delton T. Horn is a professional freelance writer with over forty nonfiction books published. He is also a playwright, director, actor and comedian. He has appeared in over seventy amateur plays and has worked semi-professionally as a stand-up comedian. Mr. Horn's performance specialty is sketch comedy. He has participated in several comedy troupes, often using improvisational material. Two groups which he founded and led were No One In Particular and Spontaneous Intentions.