A Little Light Reading

As it's World Book Day ComedySportz players share some of their favourite books on Improvisation.

Whilst most of the links provided are to Amazon please remember that other booksellers are available!

Ash Dunne recommends BOSSYPANTS by Tina Fey It's not technically an improv book, but I loved Tina Fey's autobiography, BossyPants. The way she talks about how improv infuses your whole outlook on life is very accurate. “To me YES, AND means don’t be afraid to contribute. It’s your responsibility to contribute. Always make sure you’re adding something to the discussion. Your initiations are worthwhile." "In other words: Whatever the problem, be part of the solution. Don’t just sit around raising questions and pointing out obstacles. We’ve all worked with that person. That person is a drag."


 Brainne Edge recommends IMPRO by Keith Johnstone As a teacher Impro by Keith Johnstone has been inspiring and invaluable. I think it should be compulsory for anyone wanting to go into teaching to read. Attending a seminar with Keith Johnstone one of the most valuable pieces of advice he gave was stop reading books about Improv and look at books about psychology – especially if you're looking at longform improvisation and engaging character work. So I'd also recommend Shyness by Christopher Lane.



John Cooper recommends Jill Bernard's Small Cute Book of Improv by Jill Bernard. I had Jill's book in the bottom of my kit bag for ages. Every now and then when I felt rusty I'd flick through it. She's very good at distilling stuff down and making it sound simple. Jill recently visited us and her insights into improv are joyous and inspiring.