Teen Improvisation: Unleashing Creativity through Spontaneity
Course Description: This 9-week course is designed to introduce teenagers aged 13 to 17 to the exciting world of improvisational theater. Through a series of interactive exercises, games, and scene work, students will develop fundamental improv skills such as spontaneity, teamwork, listening, and creativity. This class will provide a supportive environment for students to explore their imagination, build confidence, and develop their comedic timing.
Course Objectives:
To introduce students to the basic principles and techniques of improvisational theater.
To develop students' ability to think quickly and creatively in response to various prompts and scenarios.
To cultivate teamwork and collaboration skills through ensemble-based exercises and scene work.
To enhance students' confidence in their own abilities to perform and express themselves on stage.
To foster an appreciation for the art of improvisation and its role in both theater and everyday life.
Prerequisites: None. This class is open to all. (13-17)
Class size: 12 students maximum
Location: Innovation Portal (Downtown Mobile)
Class length: 1 1/2 hours (13.5 hours total)
Schedule: 9 consecutive sessions on the same day and time as the first class unless otherwise stated. Once a week for nine weeks.
Students MUST be present for the FIRST and LAST classes without exception. Missing class is never advised, but participants are allowed to miss up to two class sessions and still remain eligible for class advancement.
There are no make-up classes.
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Week 1: Introduction to Improv
Overview of course objectives and expectations
Icebreaker games to build rapport and trust within the group
Introduction to the "Yes, And" principle
Basic warm-up exercises focusing on physicality and energy
Group discussion: What is improv? Why is it important?
Week 2: Spontaneity and Listening
Exercises to enhance listening skills and concentration
Introduction to the concept of "being present" on stage
Practice exercises for reacting authentically and spontaneously to prompts
Group discussion: The importance of listening and reacting in improvisation
Week 3: Character Development
Exploration of physical and vocal character choices
Exercises to help students embody different characters and personas
Practice scenes focusing on character interactions and relationships
Group discussion: How to create memorable and believable characters in improv
Week 4: Scene Work and Storytelling
Introduction to basic scene structure (establishing a setting, conflict, resolution)
Partner and small group scene work focusing on building a narrative
Exercises to explore different storytelling techniques and genres
Group discussion: The elements of a successful improvised scene
Week 5: Improv Games and Formats
Introduction to popular improv games and formats (e.g., "Whose Line Is It Anyway?", short-form vs. long-form)
Practice playing a variety of games emphasizing quick thinking and creativity
Discussion on the different styles and formats of improv and their unique challenges
Week 6: Teamwork and Collaboration
Group exercises focusing on trust, support, and cooperation
Partner and ensemble scenes emphasizing collaboration and building off each other's ideas
Discussion on the importance of teamwork in improv and strategies for effective collaboration
Week 7: Comedy and Timing
Introduction to comedic techniques such as exaggeration, irony, and wordplay
Practice exercises for developing comedic timing and delivery
Group discussion: The role of humor in improvisation and finding your comedic voice
Week 8: Performance Preparation
Rehearsal and refinement of scenes and games learned throughout the course
Tips and techniques for managing stage fright and performing confidently
Dress rehearsal and feedback session in preparation for the final showcase
Week 9: Final Showcase
Public performance of improvised scenes and games for friends, family, and peers
Celebration of students' achievements and growth throughout the course
Reflection and feedback session to discuss progress and future goals in improvisation
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Comfortable clothing suitable for movement
Notebooks or journals for reflection and note-taking
Open mind and willingness to take risks and try new things
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Participation in class activities and discussions
Growth and improvement demonstrated throughout the course
Collaboration and support of classmates during scenes and exercises
Performance in the final showcase