“Like so many people across this country, this past week has been a very emotional week for me, as I navigate what it means to be a Black, Latinx and Queer man in America…”

At The Playful Stage, one of our core principles is the belief that improv is a team sport. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just stepping into the world of improvisation, there’s one golden rule that always applies: make your scene partner look good. But what does that mean in practice?

An improv environment is traditionally a space where we embrace the word “yes.” We accept other people’s suggestions, ideas, and actions in order to develop a cohesive dynamic within the scene.

But what happens when something happens in a scene that you as the improviser want to say “no” to because it makes you uncomfortable or not feel safe?

At last week’s Break the Rules improv drop-in, I witnessed some of the most playful, emotive, and captivating improv during an exercise I developed called “Childish Games,” where the improvisers were encouraged to play characters twelve and under.

A week ago tonight I was laying in my bed, literally writhing in pain. Tears streamed down my face as my chest cavity seemed to be closing in on itself, and a sharp stabbing pain tore through the far right side of my abdomen. I called out to no one “this isn’t good.”

“You know that feeling when you're about to hit the stage for improv class? Excitement mixed with a dash of nerves, right? Well, I've got a mantra for you: "Show Up and Show Off!" Now, hold your applause, I'm not talking about being the improv diva stealing the spotlight – this is all about celebrating YOU…”

Discover how using personal pronouns and gender-inclusive language creates a welcoming and diverse space in improv at The Playful Stage.

“In recent years, the multiverse concept has taken the world of pop culture by storm…”

“If you're ready to dive into the world of writing song parodies, here are four essential keys to unlock the comedic potential of your sketches.”

By Richard J. Martinez: “Let's explore five unique ways to add specificity into your scenes and unlock a world of possibilities!”

“Over the past month, I've found myself in an improvisational scene, struggling to accept support and encouragement. You see, I've been so accustomed…”

“Silence, often feared and misunderstood, holds a remarkable strength in the realm of improv…”

“What made this experience even more challenging was the lack of acknowledgment from the instructor that this was a sensitive topic and shouldn’t be played for laughs, which made me question whether I was overreacting or if nothing should be off-limits in improv, leading me to remain silent…”

“Just like in an improv scene, building this vibrant and inclusive theatre school has been…”