Austin Improv

I would have to say that both the Groundlings and Second City are run far differently than most improv theaters around the US as they do/teach improv for the purpose of writing sketch material.

Howdy AIC!

I just wanted to do a blanket hello again to everyone in the community. I haven't been on in awhile and I haven't been in Austin for about 16 months or so, but I am back in the area, so I may pop in for a show here and there. I hope to see old friends soon, as well as meet new friends ...

I bet this is why that people gainfully employed in some other industry always get rolls I am up for, because I am usually desperate to land the role for monetary reasons, and often they are in it for the "fun" Blargh.

There is always a dip in activity during OOB, then it picks up again.

I wouldn't judge Chicago/L.A. Second City performers by their Second City shows, those are like you stated Bernie Sahlins "means to a sketch"

I've seen my cast members do SC shows and iO shows, and they play differently in either.

We have had at least one Austin group apply. There may be more now, I don't track submissions, but I will find out.

D

I agree with realistic characters and situations, but it can also be extended to being something emotionally tangible for the audience. Meaning making choices for yourself and the dynamic of the scene which can be believable as we as draw empathy from the audience. They will let you do anything and ...

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=pl ... kxiqJukNKs[/youtube]

First I want to say it was great watching the KLRU special the other night, it really made me miss Austin and a lot of you folks, and also tacos. Also I am very upset that my schedule won't allow me to visit you all during OOB. First one I will have missed in 5 years :(

Now some business, non-dick ...

An exercise I like to use a lot for emotional connection, that may aid in blocking and opening up are silent scenes, where I like to dictate there be a story and strong emotional point, and the performers must interact, but NO pointing or hand gestures for communication, NO rudimentary sign language.

At one time I was going to do an Acting for Improvisers class and the focus would have been on these skills, but there is rarely enough people interested in doing this work to warrant a class. I think if I were to rework a syllabus again I would make a lvl 2 or 3 class 3 weeks longer and focus those ...

As someone who holds a degree in theatre and taught both theatre and improvisation I will say working on stage craft gives you an advantage. Not so much in the honest emotional depth required, or honing your perception which influences your work, but in performance prep. Akin to shooting free throws ...

To further Ratlif's point a bit...

I've seen a ton of naturally talented people succeed quickly in classes/rehearsals/shows and then seen those with less natural talent surpass them, because those with less talent work harder and hone the craft. The majority of those with talent that don't work ...

F-boyz in the house.

Gsu and Katelyn are two Slip alums in Austin. I was trying to meet up with the current Slip crew when they came to Chicago, but they bitched out on me,

D

NY and Chicago offer a larger variety of opportunities, yet the talent pool of 1)Improvisors and 2)People taking improv classes are much larger and competitive.

Austin is a superb community to learn, experiment and garner a TON of stage time. Which I feel is the most important part of improv ...