Tips and Tricks - Improv

First published for the Creative Wire magazine -  4/02/2025 

Liverpool boasts a vibrant and growing improv scene, with national, regional, and local companies performing year-round in various venues across the city and region.
Numerous classes and drop-in sessions are available, offering opportunities to work with improvisers at various level of experience, find inspiration, and refine your skills. There is even an annual improvisation festival hosted by the Unity theatre – more of that later in the article.

Okay, so let's say you've taken a few improv classes, and you're completely hooked. You're eager to take the stage and perform in front of a live audience. What's the next step?
First up, connect with the local improv scene. Start by following local and regional companies on social media. This will give you a good sense of what they're up to and where it is taking place.

Next, take the plunge and go and watch some live improv. Attend shows and chat with members of the cast and audience. If you've been following companies online, you'll have a good starting point for conversation.

Most improvisers love talking shop. Ask about their upcoming plans, if they're looking for new members, or if they know of other groups who are. If you're feeling nervous, bring a friend for support.

Don’t be disappointed if you come away with no solid leads. The major point is you made some connections and immersed yourself in the community. This is important, because folk will remember you and they are more likely to recommend or let you know if opportunities arise.

Finding the Right Improv Group:

• Consider your goals: Improv groups serve various purposes: social interaction, fun, skill development, and professional gigging. Each has its unique value, but they differ significantly in terms of time commitment and financial costs.
• Factor in logistics: Consider the time and expense involved in traveling to and from rehearsals. Regular rehearsals can incur transportation costs that may add up over time.
• Build strong relationships: Developing strong on-stage and off-stage relationships takes time. Persist through initial challenges but be mindful of your own well-being.
• Recognise when it's time to move on: If an improv group is no longer fulfilling your needs, despite your efforts to address your concerns, it's crucial to recognise when it's time to leave.
  • Polite departure: Explain your reasons for leaving politely and respectfully.
  • Maintain positive relationships: Avoid burning bridges, as you may encounter these individuals again within the improv community.
• Prioritise your own needs: Ultimately, your own well-being and fulfilment should be the primary considerations.

 
Improv offers a wide spectrum of formats, each with its own distinct flavour. While I have my own preferred styles for watching and performing, I recognise and value the vibrant tapestry of the improv landscape. Don't limit yourself to a single perspective. Cultivate a broad outlook and remain open to the valuable insights that can be gained from experiencing the full spectrum of the improv community.

As mentioned earlier, Liverpool hosts an annual improv festival at the Unity Theatre. I founded the Liverpool Improvisation Festival (LiF) in 2023 and currently co-direct it with Jen Hardy.

Building on Liverpool’s proud legacy of improvisational excellence – from Ken Campbell and Improbable Theatre to Hoof! and Showstoppers – LiF brings the best of the world’s improvisation to Liverpool and the best of Liverpool to the world.
The festival showcases a diverse range of work (shows and workshops) from the local, regional, national, and international improv communities. LiF fosters a spirit of innovation and risk-taking. It's a platform for performers, teachers, and creators of all levels to connect, learn, and grow.

LiF 2025 launches on February the 12th – we have an exciting programme which runs from the 24th of April – 27th of April.

As part of our ongoing commitment to working with the local and regional community we run quarterly Improv Mix up events which enables folk to gather and meet. The next event run in conjunction with the Creative Wire is on Saturday the 22nd of February at the Liverpool Arts Bar. This is a free event, but tickets must be booked in advance.
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For more information on the events mentioned check out - https://www.liverpoolimprovfestival.com/