Improvisation Terminology C R O W W C

Improvisation Terminology C. R. O. W. W C = Character n R = Relationship n O = Objective n W = Where n W = When n

The Given What is known n The suggestion(s) used to start the scene. Also know as the “ask for n

Blocking The ultimate No-No in Improv. If you are offered an idea by another player that you reject, ignore, or condemn, you are Blocking. The scene dies at this point and all cooperation is lost.

Waffling n Unnecessary dialogue or action n the act of talking about something rather than doing it.

Wimping n Not making an effort n Does not further the scene n Puts all the responsibility on the “other”

Offer n Dialog or action n Can be accepted or denied with or without conditions

Accepting n Saying yes to an offer n Carrying out the terms of that offer

Denying n This is not blocking n Accept the offer but deny the conditions of the offer n This leaves room for conflict

Saying Yes n The most important thing to remember n The opposite of Blocking

Yes, And. . . n Enforces the concept of saying yes n “And” works as a condition or qualifier n Moves the scene forward after accepting the offer

Conditioned Accept n Accept the offer with specific conditions n Helps to move the scene forward Condition Denial n Deny the offer with conditions

Tag Line n An obvious line with a good punch that tells the audience that the scene is over

Narrative Structure n Reminds the player where to go Introduction 4 Exposition 4 Inciting Incident 4 Conflict 4 Rising Action 4 Climax 4 Falling Action 4

Reincorporation n Keeps the environment consistent Gags n Physical act or unique sound that is intended to get laughs n Should not interrupt the flow n Should be avoided

Endowment Specific choices n Makes environment clear n