Ask Mark Sutton

Asaf · Post by **Asaf** » October 14th, 2009, 10:34 pm

So as part of the relaunch of YESand.com that is coming soon, Mark Sutton has discussed the idea of doing a regular advice column.

So I need some questions to ask him for the first column.

So if you want to ask one of the current greats, post your questions here. We will assume that you are okay with us posting your name if we use your question.

If you prefer to ask something anonymously, feel free to PM me with something.

Rev. Jordan T. Maxwell · October 15th, 2009, 7:04 pm

hmm...here's a dilemma i seem to currently be facing here in L.A.

I've been studying and performing at the same theatre for a little over a year and a half now and have really enjoyed my time there. Recently, the company of main stage players were reshuffled into different "teams." So the troupe I was playing with and loving has been semi-retired while I now find myself playing with a great group of performers, but with a format I don't particularly care for. No one else seems to have a problem with their placement, so I feel apprehensive about being the lone voice of dissent and I certainly don't want to come across as petty or ungrateful. Nor do I really want to sever my relationship with the theatre by quitting outright. But I find myself feeling anxious and worried before shows, unengaged during them and a bit frustrated and withdrawn afterwards. Should I get over myself, suck it up and do what the theatre asks of me or do what feels right personally and risk alienating my company and my friends?

(i'm fine with voicing the question here, but i'd prefer some degree of anonymity if the question is used...in case someone at my theatre happens to read it, i don't want to prematurely bring about any drama.

)

Asaf · Post by **Asaf** » October 19th, 2009, 12:31 pm

Well this is a fine start, but are there no other questions?

I would like to send 3-5 questions for Mark to look at.

Come on, AIC!

Matt · Post by **Matt** » October 19th, 2009, 12:35 pm

As somebody who has been in in the improv game a long time, how do you find new ways to challenge yourself and avoid getting stuck in a creative rut?

valetoile · Post by **valetoile** » October 19th, 2009, 3:23 pm

How do you find new inspiration in a show where you play a recurring character, like BassProv?

valetoile · Post by **valetoile** » October 19th, 2009, 3:24 pm

What's the most important thing for someone to know who is getting into teaching, coaching, directing improv?

LisaJackson · Post by **LisaJackson** » October 23rd, 2009, 9:04 am

How to stop laughing on stage.

vine311 · Post by **vine311** » October 23rd, 2009, 9:41 am

How can I quit my day job and do improv for a living?

apiaryist · Post by **apiaryist** » October 23rd, 2009, 9:51 am

vine311 wrote:How can I quit my day job and do improv for a living?

Please promise that you'll share that answer with all of us.

Brian Boyko · Post by **Brian Boyko** » October 23rd, 2009, 9:52 am

How do you find other improvisers interested in doing the same formats you are. It's easy to find Harold-ers, but how do you find troupes interested in longform narrative?

Post by **bradisntclever** » October 23rd, 2009, 3:55 pm

Brian Boyko wrote:How do you find other improvisers interested in doing the same formats you are. It's easy to find Harold-ers, but how do you find troupes interested in longform narrative?

There's a pretty big portion of Austin who seems to share this interest in longform narrative. They're out there. I know the Bay area is also good for it, too.

Post by **bradisntclever** » October 23rd, 2009, 3:59 pm

Anything is possible in improv. However, every once in a while I find myself stuck on stage imposing limits on my character or the environment that restrict my view or focus to the point where I almost feel trapped. Is there an exercise or thought process you'd recommend to deconstruct these notions?

That's worded a bit awkwardly, so feel free to edit that however you see fit.

Rev. Jordan T. Maxwell · October 25th, 2009, 5:22 am

i came to a resolution for my problem (read: i quit the team and took a break from the company)...not sure if that affects the feasibility of my question, but just thought i'd let ya know!

Asaf · Post by **Asaf** » October 25th, 2009, 9:44 am

I already sent the questions out to Mark to peruse. There might be other people with similar situations and your name will be withheld in the final product, if he decides to use that question in a column.

Rev. Jordan T. Maxwell · October 26th, 2009, 2:55 am

cool deal, that's totally fine. just thought i'd let you know in case he would have a problem with it. still love to hear his input (and kick myself if his advice is "stick with the team and stop being a whiny little bitch."

).