Thu, 8 May 2008 ![]() Where do you find the Juice that makes scenes compelling to watch and allows you to create scenes that unfold in an organic way? How can you use these techniques to make your life better off stage? Episode 21 explores the topic of Objectives in life and on stage.
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Mon, 28 April 2008 ![]() On the weekend of April 26th/27th we conducted our first Zenprov weekend intensive at the Brave New Workshop in Minneapolis. The Brave New Workshop or BNW as it is known, is the oldest improv theater in the country (that's right, older than Second City) and it's teaching arm, The Brave New Institute, places a high value on organic improv. At end of the weekend workshop we sat down for an hour with the students and teachers of BNW and the result is this Podcast. Enjoy. P.S.- If you would like to arrange for us to come and do a workshop in your town please contact us at info@ChicagoImprovAssociates.com Direct download: Episode_20_From_The_Brave_New_Workshop.mp3 Category: podcasts -- posted at: 2:03 PM Comments[0] |
Mon, 24 March 2008 ![]() There is a range of experience in life which either expands our boundaries or keeps us within our comfort zones. Moving beyond boundaries involves a desire for challenges which is a vital part of the Zenprov experience. How we meet challenges and the consequences of doing so are explored.
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Thu, 13 March 2008 ![]() There are ideal circumstances in which to perform. We rarely get to experience working in ideal situations and sometimes we find ourselves having to perform with everything seemingly arrayed against us. How do we achieve balance and turn a challenging gig into a huge success? The secret is equanimity.
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Wed, 13 February 2008 ![]() If you want to be totally alive, which is to say be totally present, it means you have to be present with everything. In this Episode we explore the need to come to terms with the reality of death as a metaphor and as a gatekeeper. Death and change which is the defining fact of life are inseparable, therefore, paradoxically, life and death are inseparable. How does this relate to improv? Listen and you'll find out.
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Mon, 28 January 2008 ![]() A scene takes place somewhere and an actor must interact with this somewhere. Where does the somewhere come from and what is the purpose of all the elements of the where? As usual we take a zen approach to answering these questions.
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Tue, 15 January 2008 ![]() In this Episode we add some more thoughts on making a living as an improviser including some practical suggestions. We then cover the topic of auditioning and how to make them worthwhile even if you don't get the gig. Finally we answer some great questions posed by you, our listeners. Direct download: Episode_15_More_Living_Auditions__Questions.mp3 Category: podcasts -- posted at: 4:14 AM Comments[1] |
Sat, 5 January 2008 ![]() Zen is nothing if not practical. After all, it is all about what is. In this episode we address the question of whether or not you can make a living and a life using Improv. The answer is yes...and no. As in all things Zen the answer must include you in the equation. The answer can only be supplied by you, but we help by framing the important questions. As usual we offer some practical tips.
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Sat, 1 December 2007 ![]() Every Improvisor knows "The Rules" which are Improv Holy Scripture. Marshall and Nancy go through "The Rules" and give a Zen interpretation which transforms the rules to useful tools.
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Sat, 6 October 2007 ![]() How does Zenprov approach long form Narrative style Improv? Topics discussed include essential elements and story arc. The left brain knowledge is important in creating a cohesive narrative but the zen elements of Presence and Truth make the difference in breathing life into your show. Reading and Practicum are discussed as well.
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