I was first introduced to the idea of improv or improvised theater in 2016 when I joined a theater festival called Short and Sweet. It was a competition of ten-minute plays that showcases different genres of productions and allowing both professional and amateur artists (actor, director, choreographers, and the likes) to produce a piece for a big group of people to watch.
I even joined an improv theater group for a little while until I got caught up with my previously limited view of adulting.
Just recently, I had a quick catch up with J Villanueva, a friend who I met through improv and I asked him to be a guest on my podcast. He agreed and so we came up with an episode wherein we talked about the very thing that allowed us to know each other – improv.
In the episode, I asked J how he first learned of improv, how it changed him as a person, how it changed his life, and how improv is currently affecting how he does things. It was a very fruitful discussion and I came to rekindle my love for this art. In fact I even joined improv jam sessions which he currently holds weekly and I also enrolled in an improv level 1 class which he is also facilitating.
Back to the episode, there are a number of things which are really remarkable for me.
In improv, we are taught that it is okay to make mistakes. In fact, making mistakes and experiencing failure is being celebrated. I remember how I once happily shouted “I failed” back in 2016. And while committing mistakes and embracing failure are important, there is also a big emphasis on being accountable for one’s own actions.
Amongst other skills I love learning from improv is the ability to be in the moment – the ability to make listening and feeling as a whole experience rather than limiting it only with our ears and with our skin. We have lots more of senses that could participate in the experience.
I still have plenty of things to learn from improv which I could use in improving my life and the way I see the world and so I am taking another step into learning about this art – or perhaps a way of life.
The podcast episode is mostly in English (perhaps about 90% of the time). If you’d like to listen to this episode, you may listen to it on the following platforms:
Or listen to it right here on this page:
Thanks for reading and may you also have a wonderful day today!
Rome Juanatas 