Online Improv versus In-person Improv

The Gifts and Challenges of Online vs. In-Person 

Online Improv, which the students dubbed “ZOOM-PROV,” came about during the pandemic.  They craved interaction and I was trying to minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19 during the lockdown.  I noticed a few unexpected benefits of the students engaging in Improv in a remote format:

EYE CONTACT:  While it is not possible to make eye contact with a partner, players are encouraged to look at the camera to communicate their dialogue to an imaginary audience.  Many students find this to be less intrusive than making eye contact in person. They also exhibit what I feel is far more bravery in their play.

ACTIVE LISTENING:  Key to a collaborative scene with a partner, this becomes beyond imperative online.  Players must be “in the moment” when their partner is speaking or they will not be able to add to the scene.

RECIPROCAL CONVERSATION:  Being in the moment with a partner positively impacts the development of the give-and-take of focus when working with another player; you need to be paying close attention to when to allow your partner to take focus and when to take it back.

I have, to my surprise, noticed that many players are more comfortable doing online play than they are in-person.  To which I can only account for the fact that they all look great on camera and do not need to the “enhanced appearance” button (like their teacher does).

While I ask the online players to sit in a private area so that they are away from potential interruptions, they are participating from the comfort zone of their homes, surrounded by familiar objects, pets and people.  A safe environment is essential when asking players to take risks in their creative play and follow their fears instead of running away from them.

Some players also prefer to not have to commute to the class or venture out on a weekend.  Those who do come in person, however, often make informal plans to hang out after class.  There’s something for everyone!