r/improv 19h ago

Advice Resources for tackling space/object work as a disabled improviser?

10 Upvotes

To start, I apologize if this is a vague and niche question. I'm extremely new to improv and also relatively new to living in this current iteration of my body. Frankly, it was probably audacious of me to take up improv while I'm trying to come into my "new normal," but I needed some levity and here we are.

In sort, I have a recently-diagnosed neurological condition that impacts my balance, coordination, and motor planning ability. The whole conceit of my last level 1 improv class surrounded space/object work, and to put it mildly, I got humbled.

I've disclosed a little of what's going on to my instructor, but none of my classmates know, and I'm a little fearful of boxing myself in too early if I share it with them. I don't want every scene that includes me to become limited by someone else's perception of my physical capacity. Maybe I want to portray an Olympic-level gymnast or an American Ninja Warrior at some point, you know? Plus, I'm feeling a little sensitive. I know improv will do wonders to get me over that feeling, but I just don't want the train wreck that is my inability to be cogently physically active to pull focus in a scene.

I guess I'm wondering if anyone else has dealt with this before? Are there any good resources out there that address physical work in improv when you yourself are physically disabled? Suggestions? Words of encouragement? I left class this week almost in tears from embarrassment and I know next week's focus is going to remain on this, so I'd love to enter the room in a clearer/more confident headspace.


r/improv 23h ago

Advice I'm going to place micro-bets on some improv shows

7 Upvotes

Yeah, my local theater has gotten in on that sweet DraftKings FanDuel action. Definitely a sound financial decision. But I can't decide which bets I should go for. Any suggestions?


r/improv 1h ago

Guests Lena Lamer and John Dardenne on new episode of This Will Never Happen Again improv discussion podcast

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Upvotes

Hi! We have a new episode of the podcast up today. It’s under 30 minutes. With thoughtful discussion on improv mixed with improvised music interstitials. Perfect for a short car ride or lunch break. :-)

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-will-never-happen-again/id1790749319?i=1000777838153

Episode 8 - The Horror of the Post-Show Circle

This conversation with John Dardenne and Lena Lamer will never happen again. Topics include the anxiety of the post-show discussion circle, why improvisers block to protect themselves, the value of leaning into negative labels, and embracing risk and flow state on stage. Featuring original, improvised music by Ericprincessdragon.


r/improv 20h ago

What are some improv games to help with NLP reframing

2 Upvotes

I just did an improv games workshop at a hypnosis conference in Vegas and it went really well. The theme was about reframing / overcoming failure with improv.

I'd love to find some improv games that are good for helping people learn how to reframe things.

Also, any games that can help with other skills in hypnosis such as mirror, pacing and leading, etc.

Thanks!