Linda Tells James He's Wrong About Improv

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Recently, a friend approached James asking for some advice and tips on how to prepare for an improvised film. Linda shares her experience doing long form improv on stage as the same character over multiple nights as well as her love of Mike Leigh's films.

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A new episode every Tuesday! 

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In this episode, James confesses a recent teaching incident where he completely stopped an offer made in a scene by a young person. However, is he preventing his students from learning how to deal with unexpected offers? Also, Linda shares an excellent exercise to help actors listen and address what their scene partner offers.

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A new episode every Tuesday! 

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Performing, whether scripted work or improvised, demands a high level of focus and effort. But if one is trying to be focused on the other performers and remain in the moment, is it still possible to have fun? In this episode, Linda and James discuss their opposite playing styles ('heart' and 'head', respectively), and how focusing on being focused can actually make you lose focus.

Also in this episode, Linda criticises James' Clarice Starling impression!

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Linda and James discuss the importance of knowing key influential figures in the world of improvisation, in particular, Keith Johnstone and Viola Spolin. James only knows that Keith Johnstone created Theatresports but he knows nothing about Viola Spolin. Should James retire from improv (for these reasons in particular)?

Also, if we do believe that learning from practitioners who have come before is valuable, how do we encourage artists without gatekeeping or being elitist? 

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In our everyday lives, we practice improv constantly as any interaction that isn't scripted must be improvised. But can improv comedy come just as naturally? In this episode Linda and James delve into whether they learned comedy or were born funny. They also reveal what they are jealous of in each other's improv ability!

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In the past couple of weeks, theatre in Australia has been undergoing a bit of a crisis with several major shows cancelled or their touring reduced. James proposes that audiences need stability and predictability so now is not the time for improv however Linda argues that it can, and should, be done. 

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Linda and James delve into the dos and don'ts of giving feedback on improv shows with their own stories on what they've learned the hard way. 

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Because James is a huge nerd, in this episode, he brings up the latest James Bond video game. In the game, 'improvisation' is touted as a key skill required for spies, but James isn't convinced that Bond would fare well doing Theatresports. Also, Linda explores what exercises she would use if she held an improv workshop for MI6.

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The most well known rule of improv is 'Yes And' but is it enough? What are the alternatives to 'Yes And'? And find out why our new merch features the catchphrase 'Don't Be Limited By The Word 'Limit'!'

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James tries to argue that audiences only see improv shows based on the troupe members while Linda argues that the format of the show is the key draw. James also dishes out the hot goss on an improvised show he saw that he hated!

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A new episode every Tuesday!