My introduction to improvisational theater began relatively late. As a classical actor, improvisational theater was usually not really on my radar, as the methodology is very different from pure, formal acting. The roots of this technique lie in the case of Viola Spolin in the area of social reintegration of children from difficult backgrounds. Keith Johnstone On the other hand, developed it as a reaction to his frustrated departure from classical theater. Here he repeatedly encountered authoritarian teaching styles that he had encountered in his own school career and later experiences as a teacher.
The aim of improvisational theater is not to train professional actors who can bring a high degree of presence, role understanding and charisma to any stage at any time. Rather, improv is about unleashing the creativity of the individual through self-acceptance and the (self) permission to fail. The simple rule of “Say yes, and” expands inner boundaries and opens up new perspectives. This becomes clear in Johnstone's Tedx Talk, from 2016.
Through my collaboration with Nadine Antler, with which I founded the Nowhere Akademie I opened up this world to myself and practise applied improvisation. The focus is not on performing on stage, but on the individual or group process to develop contact, communication and team skills.
Improvisation through status theory, the principle of “Yes!” and numerous group-dynamic focus exercises help you to playfully experience your own limits, achieve new goals or define them in the areas of leadership, performance, storytelling and, of course, teamwork.
