Liberating, empowering and just plain bone-tickling funny, improvisational play may just be the key to a happy childhood … and adulthood. Knowing how to jump into an imaginary world and just “go with it” is as natural to early childhood as cookies and milk.
In our world today, this early type of play can sometimes get replaced with scripted play and predetermined endings. Many games, and even drama classes, can be intimidating for kids who fear not being able to do it right. If inhibitions are preventing your child from enjoying the freedom of play, perhaps it’s time to look into the art of improv.
More improv classes for children and improv shows geared for all ages are popping up around town, including two productions this month at Jet City Improv and ComedySportz. Kids can get involved with and try out this exciting genre of theater in a variety of ways.
The beauty of improv is that its very nature precludes such things as plans and outcomes. Some kids may be nervous about not having a plan and may be afraid of freezing up and not knowing what to do. However, the freedom to take play anywhere you can imagine is a powerful and addictive force that yields many benefits for those willing to give it a try.
If your kids need a little inspiration before trying their own hand at improv, take them to one of the all-ages improv shows in town. Currently playing at Jet City Improv in the University District through April 19, Jet City Improv presents The Adventures of Gilbert and Sullivan: A Topsy Turvy Unscripted Musical Comedy.
Not only will this show allow your kids the opportunity to see improv prowess at its best, but they will also get to participate in the show and help guide where the story goes. The audience plays the role of “the crew” and determines Gilbert and Sullivan’s destination and purpose of travel to their next exotic port. Being part of the action and story development helps kids realize that they have good ideas, and they love seeing where the actors take their suggestions.
My 11-year-old son, who has dipped his toes in the improv waters, loves that no two shows are the same. He says, “It’s an amazing feeling when they use your idea and it makes so many people laugh. It really makes you want to jump up there and do it with them.”
Another local option for improv shows is ComedySportz at Ballard Underground. Two teams of improvisers play a short-form improv game in front of a referee, and the audience gets to decide which team made them laugh the most. ComedySportz’ unique blend of fast and funny improv comedy is usually appropriate for all ages; however, once a month, they offer a “Kidz Matinee” that focuses all the fun on the littlest fans. They are even available for birthday parties.
If your child gets inspired to take an improv class after watching one of these shows, you’ll find several offered in theater programs for kids in our area, including at Seattle Children’s Theatre and Studio East. Jet City Improv will come to a middle school or high school and set up a customized improv program.
“When students learn to improvise, they learn valuable skills such as public speaking, narrative, confidence in front of an audience, teamwork, communication and creative problem solving,” said Andrew McMasters, artistic director at Jet City Improv. “We have been working with students and at-risk youth for the last six years, and have found that improv can help build confidence and communication skills quickly and in a fun and educational way.”
