Overview

The Improv Dictionary: An A to Z of Improvisational Terms, Techniques, and Tools explores improvisational approaches and concepts drawn from a multitude of movements and schools of thought to enhance spontaneous and collaborative creativity. This accessible resource reveals and interrogates the inherited wisdoms contained in the very words we use to describe modern improv. Each detailed definition goes beyond the obvious clichés and seeks a nuanced and inclusive understanding of how art of the moment can be much more than easy laughs and cheap gags (even when it is being delightfully irreverent and wildly funny). This encyclopedic work pulls from a wide array of practitioners and practices, finding tensions and commonalities from styles as diverse as Theatresports, Comedysportz, the Harold, narrative long-form, Playback Theatre, and Boal’s Theatre of the Oppressed. Entries include nuanced definitions, helpful examples, detailed explorations of the concepts in practice, and framing quotes from a leading practitioner or inspirational artistic voice. The Improv Dictionary offers valuable insights to novice improvisers taking their first steps in the craft, seasoned performers seeking to unlock the next level of abandon, instructors craving a new comprehensive resource, and scholars working in one of the numerous allied fields that find enrichment through collaborative and guided play. Each significant entry in the book is also keyed to an accompanying improv game or exercise housed at www.improvdr.com, enabling readers to dig deeper into their process.

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9781032424101

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Reviews

“In The Improv Dictionary, Charles shares what he has learned in a unique way: He has arranged the art form’s tactics and philosophies into a dictionary format, explaining such terms as “bulldozing” (strong-arming your partners into going along with your vision for a scene, a practice that is frowned upon) in succinct, easily navigable chunks. What’s more, Charles has tried to nudge the conversation on improv forward by pursuing a more modern, culturally inclusive approach that he feels is wholly in keeping with the collaborative nature of the genre itself.” Steve Schneider, Winter Park Magazine

Author Information

David Charles, PhD, works as a professional improvisational practitioner, deviser, author, and improv scholar. A New Zealander by birth, David has called central Florida home since 2003, where he has served as a Professor of Theatre and Dance, Departmental Chair, Producing Director of the historic Annie Russell, and Founding Artistic Director of Rollins Improv Players at Rollins College. He is a former Equity improviser with Walt Disney World’s Comedy Warehouse and a proud ensemble member, instructor, and director at the region’s preeminent improv venue, Sak Comedy Lab.

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