Overview

John Abbott, author of The Improvisation Book, explains how theatre directors at every level can use improvisation in the rehearsal room. Foreword by Mark Rylance. 'Improvisation can be used as part of the creative process of rehearsing a play. It can be a fabulous tool for exploration and discovery. It can strengthen the actor’s commitment to their character. And it can create an environment of confidence and spontaneity.' Packed with useful exercises and improvisation scenarios, and examples from a wide variety of plays, Improvisation in Rehearsal reveals how improvisation enriches and enlivens the creation of characters, back-stories, relationships, shared histories and emotional lives. The book also demonstrates how improvisation can be used as a powerful tool in the foundation of a strong company, and when searching for the hidden depths and dynamics in a scene. Building on his own experience as an actor, director and teacher, Abbott writes with clarity and an infectious enthusiasm which will motivate directors to try the techniques for themselves. As Mark Rylance says in his Foreword, this book 'will inspire and delight its readers'. 'Essential reading... full of useful exercises and improvisation scenarios... Abbott knows what he's talking about and has a gift for expressing himself in straightforward, clutter-free language' — The Stage

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9781854595232

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Reviews

'There is little doubt that Abbott's books will be compulsory reading for many directors and actors long into the future' * British Theatre Guide * 'Essential reading... full of useful exercises and improvisation scenarios... Abbott knows what he's talking about and has a gift for expressing himself in straightforward, clutter-free language' * The Stage *

Author Information

John Abbott is an author with a wealth of experience in theatre and education. He had a successful career as an actor before turning to teaching. He was Head of Acting at the Arts Educational School of Acting in Chiswick, West London, where he taught improvisation, stand up and Shakespeare, before retiring in 2012. He is the author of The Improvisation Book (Nick Hern Books, 2007), Improvisation in Rehearsal (Nick Hern Books, 2009), The Acting Book (Nick Hern Books, 2012) and The Drama School Handbook (Nick Hern Books, 2024).

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