I started an improv class last week, and we had our first session on Sunday. Over Christmas, I had been thinking very little about starting this class, but as the time grew closer, I grew more nervous. By the day before, I was distracted and on edge -- not so different from when I teach my own classes at GC. A few minutes before I walked in the door, I really wanted to run away and forget I had ever signed up.
There were nearly 30 people in the class. Clearly, January inspired this resolution for many folks. Most students, however, weren't interested in breaking into comedic acting or gaining fame. Most wanted what so many of us want: to be better in conversation, to be able to think and speak with more spontaneity, to use imagination, or to improve public speaking. These are, ultimately, the reasons I had for starting the class as well. Plus, I had several friends and a husband urging me to give it a go.
The most remarkable thing about improv is learning how to say "Yes, and..." to others. As we attempted our first short scenes, we were directed to respond to everything that others said with "Yes, and...." We weren't going to deny them their idea, their situation, or their conflict. When someone talks to us, presents us with an issue, shares a story, we should always say "Yes, and," right? By doing this, we affirm their experience and add to the story. And all that story must tell is the story of being human.
How would your interactions with others change if you responded to them with "Yes, and" all the time? But it isn't as easy as it may seem. You shouldn't say, "Yes, and.... but..." That would lead to you objecting to their story. You also can't ask too many questions and put your friend on the spot. That would require them to supply the whole story, and your job is to affirm it and add to it.
What a great practice to take into the new year. Yes, and....
No comments:
Post a Comment