The Backline

This week Rob and Adam debate the merits of Game of the Scene, pulling premise, and how to create meaningful patterns that bolster your longform show. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

This week Rob and Adam discuss connection, rapport, relationships onstage and offstage. Also, is it possible to have a meaningful connection with a stranger onstage? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

This week Rob and Adam discuss improv forms!  What makes a good improv form? When does your improv format get in the way of your scenes? Also, the beloved format “Darwin’s Christmas Tree” returns to the podcast! Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

In this lively discussion, the hosts tackle where improvisational ideas originate and how to tackle creative blocks. They explore the paradox of creativity being dull at times, despite its whimsical reputation. Nostalgic tales from Chicago and experiences at the Detroit Improv Festival highlight the connection between food and creativity. The conversation delves into emotional dynamics in improv and the importance of embracing 'bad' ideas to spark originality, all while emphasizing authenticity and diversity in performances.

There’s nothing more unfair when an audience picks their collective favourite onstage.  How important is it to be likable onstage? What can you do to stay on the good side of a discerning crowd?  And most importantly, is there any path back towards the audience’s good graces? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

They talk about spotting real progress in improvisation and what separates advanced players from masters. They share stories of bombing, big mistakes, and how pressure and responsibility speed growth. Practical habits come up: purposeful practice, producing your own shows, cross-pollinating communities, and taking risks early to build confidence.

This week Rob and Adam discuss one of the foundational rules of improv, “Always make the active choice.”  In the age of modern improv, what does an active choice look like? How does an “active choice” interact wtih Game of the Scene? What’s the difference between “action” and an “active choice?” Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

We’re told that Yes And is the building block of every improv scene, but are there are drawbacks when using this tool? This week Rob and Adam discuss the origins of Yes And, how to agree effectively, and how to use emotion to hold the story in place. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

This week Rob and Adam discuss how to find your ending onstage, what a resolution looks like onstage, and how your ending might differ based on what format you’re playing. Thanks to ITS Company Director Kate Coates. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network