Applied improvisation

Applied improvisation is the application of improvisational theatrical methods in various non-theatrical fields, including consulting, training, and teaching. It is known to be used as an experiential educational approach which enables participants to explore and improve their leadership, management and interpersonal capabilities in several fields, which include collaboration, communications, creativity, and team-building.

History

Applied improvisation began in the late 1990s with the performative turn in social science.^[1] The increased focus on performance and improvisation led to the application of improvisational methods in non-theatrical fields.^[2] In 2002, the Applied Improvisation Network was founded, a non-profit organization of people committed to using applied improvisation.^[3]

Uses of applied improvisation

Applied improvisation sees use in consulting and corporate training, particularly in the areas of sales and leadership.^[4][5] Applied improvisation is also often used in design thinking, service design, and UX design.^[6][7][8]

In addition to the business world, applied improvisation sees use in disaster readiness training, drama therapy, medicine, and education.^{[9][10][11][12]}

Further reading

• Dudeck, Theresa Robbins and McClure, Caitlin Applied Improvisation: Leading, Collaborating, and Creating Beyond the Theatre, Methuen Drama, 2018, ISBN 9781350014367
• Koppett, Kat Training to Imagine: Practical Improvisational Theatre Techniques for Trainers and Managers to Enhance Creativity, Teamwork, Leadership, and Learning, 2nd edition, Routledge, 2012, ISBN 1579225926
• Leonard, Kelly and Yorton, Tom Yes, And: How Improvisation Reverses "No, But" Thinking and Improves Creativity and Collaboration, Harper Business, 2015, ISBN 0062248545
• Lowe, Robert Improvisation, Inc.: Harnessing Spontaneity to Engage People and Groups, Jossey-Bass / Pfeiffer, 2000, ISBN 0787951420
• Madson, Patricia Ryan Improv Wisdom: Don't Prepare, Just Show Up, Bell Tower, 2005, ISBN 1400081882
• Schinko-Fischli, Susanne Applied Improvisation for Coaches and Leaders: A Practical Guide for Creative Collaboration, Routledge, 2018, ISBN 9781138315266