Improv scares the living shit out of me…and I’m not even the one who has to do it. Why? I think it’s because I can’t control it. (Yay, therapy!) There are just so many variables. Also, I was “raised” in new play development where the writers got all the attention. That all being said, improv is very exciting when it works. Kicking serious butt at improv is necessary these days in both legit and commercial work. Here are some tips for using improvisation during your next audition.
1. Ask your casting director about improv. I’ve noticed that indie film directors will often ask actors to make the script their own. If you’re unsure whether or not this is kosher, feel free to ask.
2. Exercise the muscle. It’s difficult to get good at improv in a vacuum. Take classes. Agents and casting directors scout at places such UCB, The Pit, Magnet, National Comedy Theatre, etc., so that’s a plus. Also, stay on top of what’s popular and trending. For example, I was flabbergasted at a recent audition because most of the actors I brought in had never seen “Parks and Recreation.” This was a toughie given that the character they had to play had Aubrey Plaza’s
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