Directing

The Outside Eye

Improvisers are under a lot of stress. They have no script, no plan, and nowhere to hide. The more audience eyes there are to scrutinize, the more the pressure builds.

But there are techniques to relieve the weight placed on a player’s shoulders. The responsibility can be shared not only between on-stage actors, but with a companion sitting comfortably to the side. A director or side-coach can provide support in many ways, but perhaps the most powerful is simply their presence. They are like the net below high-wire performers. Impro acrobats can attempt daring manoeuvres and show poise and balance while telling tales and living out adventures on stage. Directors can give suggestions on the fly, challenge players, point out the obvious and provide variety to a show stuck in a rut.

Experience what it feels like to support scenes from a pressure-free place. Practice how much to pitch in and how much to stay out. Direction is only good if it inspires the players, so come learn to be the catalyst that makes improvisers shine.

Discover the inside scoop on the Outside Eye.