The The Other Blocking: Teaching and Performing Improvisation serves as a practical guide for students, educators, and performers seeking to develop the skills and techniques of theatrical improvisation. Blending instructional strategies with performance theory, the book explores the history of improv, the differences between short-form and long-form improvisation, audience engagement, performance techniques, and the integration of established acting methods such as Stanislavski. Through interviews with experienced improvisers and educators, readers gain valuable insight into the creative, collaborative, and educational aspects of improvisational theater.
Throughout the book, readers are introduced to a variety of improv games, teaching methods, performance exercises, and classroom applications designed to build confidence, creativity, communication, and teamwork. Practical examples, interviews, and supplementary resources provide guidance for leading improv activities, structuring courses, and developing successful performances. By combining theoretical foundations with hands-on instruction, the book prepares students, performers, and educators to use improvisation as a powerful tool for artistic expression, collaboration, and personal growth.
Introduction
Chapter One: How We Got Here...
Chapter Two: Long Form, Short Form
Interview with... Andrew McMasters
Chapter Three: The Guides
Interview with... Amanda Rountree
Chapter Four: Short Form Games
Chapter Five: Long Form and Transitions
Interview with... Jay Hitt
Chapter Six: Ten Theories, Ten Clichés
Interview with... Brian MacMillan
Chapter Seven: Audience Psychology/Emceeing
Interview with... John Boyle
Chapter Eight: A Sample Semester
Interview with... Randy Dixon
Chapter Nine: Integrating Stanislavski
Chapter Ten: The Most Perfect Game Ever
Chapter Eleven: Advice from the Players
Appendix A: Glossary of Common Improv Terms
Appendix B: Ask-Fors
Appendix C: Improv Game Websites
Appendix D: Improv Companies
Appendix E: Books on Improvisation
Tom
Smith
Tom Smith took his first improv class in 1985, and has been performing and teaching it ever since. He founded Walla Walla Theatresports in 1988 and has taught hundreds of improv workshops and classes, from Creede, Colorado to Dresden and Mosbach, Germany. He has performed with numerous long and short form groups, including Arkansas Toothpick Extravaganza, Seattle Theatresports, and Crooked Mirror.