Improvisation begins with a simple but powerful idea: saying “yes”. When we say yes, we acknowledge and accept the reality of what’s happening, whether it’s an unexpected turn of events or somebody’s new idea.
From there, we build. In the moment, we contribute something new to keep things moving forward.
This principle is at the heart of improvisation, whether on stage or in life. Keith Johnstone, a pioneer of improv, put it simply: “Saying yes is rewarded with adventure; saying no is rewarded with safety.”
But saying yes doesn’t mean agreeing to everything blindly. It means recognizing what’s present and working with it. That includes:
- Turn-taking and listening: Taking a moment to hear what’s offered and responding thoughtfully.
- Using what’s there: Making the most of available resources, whether it’s a story unfolding on stage or a pantry with limited ingredients.
- Co-constructing: Building together, step by step, to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
Part of what’s impressive about successful improvisations is the creativity that’s apparent in the novel adjustment to a situation, the clever fresh use of resources and skills. We notice that good improvisers deal well with uncertainty. They don’t get stuck: instead they experiment.
We can all learn to embrace uncertainty and turn it into opportunity. It’s about adapting and thriving, whether you’re handling a last-minute change at work, navigating a flooded street, or inventing new ways to engage with the world.
You can practice the art of saying yes at the Oxford Improv Fest’s Improvisation for Life workshops. These 90-minute sessions will help you discover your creative potential and embrace the adventure of the unknown.
https://oldfirestation.org.uk/whats-on/improvisation-for-life-workshop/