The Comedy Improv Handbook

The Comedy Improv Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to University Improvisational Comedy in Theatre and Performance is a one-stop resource for both improv teachers and students, covering improv history, theory, maxims, exercises, games, and structures. You will learn the necessary skills and techniques needed to become a successful improviser, developing a basic understanding of the history of improvisation and its major influences, structures, and theories. This book also addresses issues associated with being a college improviser - like auditions, rehearsals, performances, and the dynamics of improv groups.

Matt Fotis is an Assistant Professor of Theatre at Albright College where he teaches improvisation, acting, and writing for performance. He is the author of Long Form Improvisation & American Comedy - The Harold. His work has appeared in Theatre Journal, Theatre Topics, The Journal of American Drama & Theatre, The Encyclopedia of Humor Studies, The Encyclopedia of American Studies, and MLB.com, among others. He is also an award-winning playwright. Siobhan O'Hara is a graduate from Albright College and former president of Albright Improv. She is continuing her education and training at The Upright Citizens Brigade.

INTRODUCTION SECTION I: History SECTION II: Rules, Major Theoretical Concepts & Maxims SECTION III: Skill Building Exercises SECTION IV: Short Form Improv SECTION V: Long Form Improv SECTION VI: The College Improv Team SECTION VII: Professional Training Programs YOUR IMPROV LIBRARY INDEX