The Backline

This week Rob and Adam discuss scene painting within scenes, openers, and transitions.  As well as Mitch Marner, ceremonial swords, and the science of revenge. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

They explore story-structure and how to craft simple narratives for improv. They debate the limits of modular improv and ways to blend narrative beats with dynamic play. Techniques like helper/obstacle beats, cause-and-effect choices, and disguising exposition get attention. Practical tips for practicing narrative links and keeping scenes lively are highlighted.

This week Rob and Adam discuss nuanced characters, creating active audience members, and avoiding going “too big” in a scene. Plus, the shame of not feeling enough onstage, some upcoming touring in the fall, and how every improviser is either Superman or Superboy onstage. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

This week Rob and Adam discuss finding the fun in physicality, object work for your improv essay and the antidote for Talking Heads Syndrome.  Also covered: playing negative, not judging yourself, and Adam admits he was wrong about stacks/sacks. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Every improviser has experienced “being in your head” and every improv podcast has discussed what it feels like. In this episode, Rob and Adam discuss the opposite, being “in the pocket”, as well as, the exciting improv scene of Buffalo New York, softball, and Adam’s new Dune-insipired improv catchphrases. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

This week Rob and Adam discuss what to do when your improv team breaks up, and how to move forward with the artform you love.  Also, a birthday week, reconnecting after a long break, and the Backline Stacks VS. Sacks 2025 debate. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

While there are many different forms of improvisation, there are none more derided than Barprov. This week Rob and Adam discuss crowds, controlling the room, and why improv performed outside of a theatre is classified as it’s own format. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

This week Rob and Adam pull a handful of questions from the Backline Mailbag to discuss casting an improv show, creating community, building energy throughout a show, teaching a new workshop, and support scenes. Also, a mystery. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

It’s the launch of Season 9! Rob and Adam discuss how to start off a monoscene, things to avoid in your initiation, and finding a nonverbal, secret contract between you and your scene partner. Also, we now have a Patreon! Find us at patreon.com/TheBacklinePodcast. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Hosts reminisce about their cherished improv experiences at Second City, highlighting the joy of spontaneity. They delve into the evolution of improv, discussing the pandemic's impact and modern storytelling techniques. Exciting opportunities in digital improv are explored, suggesting a potential comedy renaissance on the horizon. The significance of community in improv shines through as they share personal reflections on collaboration and connection, emphasizing the heartwarming nature of shared experiences in this vibrant art form.