The Improv Illusionist: Using Object Work, Environment, and Physicality in Performance

Object work, environment and physicality are essential for improvisational theatre. Skilled improvisers can draw audiences into the performance by helping them see things that aren’t there.

The Improv Illusionist is the first book dedicated to physical improv. It reveals why these skills are so important, how to fix bad habits that develop over time and practical techniques for being more physical on stage.

The book features over 50 exercises to help improvisers develop their skills through solo and group work. Instructors will also find notes and tips for teaching physical improv.

Improvisers of all ages and experience levels will learn how to:

* become more playful through exploring physical activity;

* eliminate miscommunication with other players by adding precision to object work;

* get new ideas for scenes by exploring the environment and activities;

* develop an eye for real-world detail and how to reproduce it in improv;

* add more visual flair to scenes;

* stay safe, both physically and emotionally, in shows, rehearsals and classes

Even the most seasoned improv performers often struggle to be more physical, so this book fills an important niche in improv actor training.

David Raitt has been performing and teaching improv for over 25 years. After acquiring degrees in Cognitive Science and then Law, he started taking improv classes at The Second City, Toronto, in 1996. By 2000, he’d been hired into their Canadian National Touring Company. He performed with the Mainstage ensemble and was also on the Training Centre Education faculty for 17 years. He offers speciality workshops in environment, object work and physicality.