Written by: Sean Hancock
While traveling through Europe, I was reminded of how wonderfully accessible of an art form Improvisation is to an audience. I performed in large theaters, small community gatherings, and even a laundry mat! However, being in countries like Germany and Spain, where English isn’t a primary language, made things very interesting.
I have been pursuing this art form for over a decade, and I love branching out and trying new things that challenged me. Last year, I developed a solo improv show because there were many times when I would be alone, but still wanted to perform and do a show for an audience. I had heard of another person doing one somewhere in Los Angeles, but I had never seen anyone do it. After sitting in a friend’s apartment in North Hollywood and theorizing with some others, the possibility began to take shape.
I feel as though improv is so simple and hands-on, yet clever and inventive all at the same time (well, when done right). The art form is almost still discovering itself. I’d like to say I get to take part in this discovery. I sometimes feel like a new pioneer pressing westward and this place before me is my land. I can pass through it, or I can build on it. It’s as if I have some sort of ownership of this art form as if it where my very own. Being in this mental state of discovery and willingness to venture, can allow one to develop a show that few have ever done, invent games that have never been performed, and play in a way that transcends language barriers. To an improviser, this is all possible.
I have been practicing with my best efforts to produce a show that is upright and reputable. It’s not about tripping up on perfection, but rather aiming for excellence. Most people have seen comedians perform and can often see a bit of their own character oozing out of their performance. This brings me to an awareness of my own character, perhaps the core of it all. I believe the more I know myself, the more the audiences will get to see my character. I hear people talking about doing shows that change the way people think, but if I don’t want to be anything like them, why should I listen? Now, if there is something about them that I, myself, want to imitate, than I love the idea of changing the way people think. That’s part of the reason why my group’s name is Recycled Minds and our motto is, “Do not conform. Be transformed.” But, I think I have to first ask myself if I am a man worthy of imitating. To do that, I have to see myself with objective, honest judgment. The more you are aware of your own identity, the more you are aware of your abilities, what you can expect from the world around you, and what you can expect to give because of all you have to offer. This is aiming for excellence. This is being who you are designed to be. This is a higher form of comedy.
Since I have been back in the United States, I have been performing in Boise and the Nampa-Caldwell area. While there may not be any comedy clubs, there’s still an abundance of laughter to be had, a space to perform in for audiences to enjoy, and I’m glad I’m here to help out!
Interested in seeing quality improv in the Treasure Valley? Check out my new improv group Recycled Minds at recycledmindsimprov.com.
We are now offering classes in improvisation and stand- up comedy. Sign up and start your adventure!
