Because this is a website all about improv, I thought I'd make an article that will hopefully give you all a laugh. Or, at the very least, make you breathe out of your nose a little faster than usual. If you've ever taken an improv class or attended a club, chances are you've had a run-in with at least one of these clowns. Without further ado, I present Types of Improvisers!
The Physical Over-Achiever
Everyone loves an improviser who knows how to spice up a scene with some action, but we've all encountered that one guy who likes movin' and groovin' a little too much. It can be a little hard sometimes to perform with this person as if you get too close you're faced with the danger of being punched by flying hands or kicked by crazy legs. This person isn't bad at improv, they're just a bit of a hazard to their poor scene partners.
The Discourse
We're all a little worried about this one. Is everything okay? Do they need to talk? No matter what scene or suggestion they get, this person is always looking for a fight. "Deborah, I bought us a puppy!" "Oh, YOU WOULD!" Scenes with this improviser can sometimes end with a painful standstill as all players helplessly toss insults at every one else, no one 100% clear on why they'e all fighting in the first place.
The Wrecking Ball
Fourth wall? What fourth wall? Oh, THAT fourth wall! Yeah, forget that fourth wall. We don't need it. Down it goes! This improviser gets their kicks from bringing the audience in on the action. Their favorite gags include pointing out logical fallacies and breaking character. While the gimmick can be funny from time to time, this person can be known for wearing it a bit thin.
Snap Crackle Pop (Culture)
You might find yourself wondering how Doctor Who weaseled itself into this scene about honeymooners in Venice. This pop culture savvy improviser is the culprit. Their extensive knowledge on Game of Thrones and Harry Potter just loves to rear its ugly head during scenes, alienating audience members and sometimes scene partners. Come on guys, keep it on the TV and out of your scenes.
The Screamer
You sort of lose what this improviser is saying after a while. That is, if they're actually saying anything at all. Every scene this person does seems to devolve into manic yelling and screeching before you know it. What's worse than a Screamer, though? A pair of Screamers. Before you know it you're watching a pair of lunatics running around yelling over each other. Your only escape is someone to finally call "scene!"
Moves With Their Mouth
The description sounds gross but this improviser's wit and handle of verbal comedy is so well developed that they can perform an entire scene without moving a muscle, all whilst their words take you on a rousing journey. This improviser somehow keeps the energy up and the laughs rolling using only their mouth to propel things forward. It's kind of amazing when you think about it.
The Romeo
"Okay, and if we tighten the screw, we should be able to save the submarine!"
"That's great and all but... you're gorgeous. I'm in love with you."
I get it that it's a cold, cruel world and we're all just lonely people looking for a little attention, but an improv scene is not the place to look for love. This improviser is always falling head over heels in a comedic fashion for their scene partners, and you know what? Sometimes it sure is funny and sweet. :)
"That's great and all but... you're gorgeous. I'm in love with you."
I get it that it's a cold, cruel world and we're all just lonely people looking for a little attention, but an improv scene is not the place to look for love. This improviser is always falling head over heels in a comedic fashion for their scene partners, and you know what? Sometimes it sure is funny and sweet. :)
The Shocker
This person's creepy mall Santa character takes a turn for the uncomfortable with every unnecessary euphemism. Now, I'm a firm believer that implying is funnier that saying, but this improviser does NOT agree with me on this one. They'll say or do ANYTHING to shock the crowd. Now, it's not necessarily a bad thing. After all, Seth MacFarlane created a comedic empire out of pushing the envelope. Comedy is always about toeing the line, isn't it? This improviser is a seasoned pro at crossing that line!
International Man of Mystery
For the life of you, you just can't nail this guy's character. The International Man of Mystery can be resultant of a few things. Sometimes too many character quirks, sometimes none at all. Time to time, you wonder if they're just playing themselves. "Uh, well, are you from around here?"
"Yes."
"Why don't we go over there!"
"Sure."
"Wow! Look at that crocodile."
"That sure is a crocodile."
Who are they and what are they hiding, you wonder. Every scene feels like a painful interrogation, and leaves you feeling shaken (not stirred).
"Yes."
"Why don't we go over there!"
"Sure."
"Wow! Look at that crocodile."
"That sure is a crocodile."
Who are they and what are they hiding, you wonder. Every scene feels like a painful interrogation, and leaves you feeling shaken (not stirred).
You
While some of us may slip into an archetype from time to time, each and every improviser is unique. Everyone brings something personal to the stage each time they perform, whether they're a Screamer or a Wrecking Ball. And You, too, are special and good in your own ways! Our quirks set us apart from the rest and make our personal style of improv stand out, just like the others on this list. The best thing to do to improve yourself is to embrace the things that make you stand out!
Of course, there are PLENTY more types of improvisers! I may do a sequel to this article, but for now, share other types of improvisers you know in the comments!
Of course, there are PLENTY more types of improvisers! I may do a sequel to this article, but for now, share other types of improvisers you know in the comments!
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