Will Luera's Improv Journal

Improv is Theater. Imagine a stage where every scene unfolds without a script, where each line uttered is born in the moment, and every character is a product of pure improvisation. Welcome to the world of improvised theater, where the magic of storytelling knows no bounds. In the style of one of my most popular shows called “Playbook,” I’ll be diving deep into the art of crafting a completely improvised play. Whether you're starting with a partial script, an abstract idea, or just a theatrical genre in mind, we'll guide you through the exhilarating process of bringing an entire narrative to life on the spot. Join us as we unravel the secrets behind building a cohesive storyline, developing dynamic characters, and maintaining the momentum of a performance without the safety net of a written script. From the initial spark of inspiration to the adrenaline-fueled moments on stage, we'll walk you through each step of the journey towards creating a theatrical experience unlike a

Get ready for something exciting! Soon, I'll begin a series about the The Improvised Movie Format—a unique blend of creativity and structure that brings improvised stories to life through cinematic storytelling. This upcoming series will take you behind the scenes, revealing how improvisers can create cinematic experiences on the fly, using the timeless three-act structure as their guide. Whether you're an experienced performer or just curious about the art of improv, this series will offer insights and techniques that you won't want to miss. What’s in store? We’ll be breaking down each act, from establishing characters and setting to navigating the pivotal moments that drive the story forward. You’ll discover how to build tension, craft memorable scenes, and deliver satisfying conclusions—all without a script! Stay tuned as I prepare to launch this exciting series. If you've ever wondered how movies could be made up on the spot, this is your chance to find out. Stay tu

Step into the world where laughter knows no bounds, where spontaneity reigns supreme, and where every scene is a canvas for comedic brilliance. Join me on an exhilarating exploration as we delve into the captivating realm of the Improvised Sitcom. In the late 1990s, under the tutelage of the esteemed Dan Goldstein, I embarked on a journey that forever altered my perception of comedy. Through his guidance, I uncovered the intricacies of this uniquely American art form, witnessing firsthand how it evolved alongside its scripted counterpart. Over the years, the Improvised Sitcom has morphed and adapted, mirroring the ever-changing landscape of humor and society. And now, armed with insights gained from years of immersion, I am thrilled to share with you a series of upcoming posts that unravel the secrets behind this dynamic form of entertainment. From character development to plot twists, from comedic timing to audience interaction, each installment will offer a glimpse into the inner wor

Greetings, fellow storytellers and improv enthusiasts! For ten years, I had the privilege of directing "Quest," a serial improvised show set in a sprawling medieval fantasy world. We crafted nearly 40 unique shows, spanning generations of characters and countless plot twists. The experience was exhilarating, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. Now, I'm eager to share some of the lessons I learned in the hopes of inspiring others to embark on similar creative journeys. Whether you're an experienced improviser or new to the world of serial improv, I look forward to sharing my insights that can help you build a captivating world, develop compelling characters, and create unforgettable stories. My blog posts will explore: Building a Compelling World Developing Characters That Come Alive on Stage From Rehearsal to the Stage: Crafting the Serial Improv Experience Opening Night In my next blog post, I'll delve deeper into specific improv techniques and exercises that

Este video habla de un concepto en mis clases de Impro que describo como La Chispa. Básicamente, cómo nos inspiramos para comenzar una escena basada en una sugerencia de la audiencia. ¡Gracias a Next Impro de Japón 🇯🇵 por la camiseta!

A key ingredient of a great improv scene is the characters that bring it to life. When I first started as an improviser, my range of characters was limited. I admired my fellow castmates who could instantly lock into a character and bring it to life. I realized that if I wanted to grow as an improviser, I needed to expand my character range. But how? Over time, I applied the same techniques to character creation that I did in other aspects of my improv work: start with where I’m comfortable and build from there. Through practice and learning from other instructors, I eventually developed and refined these techniques, which have now become an integral part of my teaching curriculum. When I teach character work, I like to think of it as a layered costume that you can put on as an actor. Each layer adds depth and complexity to your character, allowing you to build from the inside out. The layers are as follows: Yourself : Start with what you know—yourself. Your own experiences and observa

Amazingly powerful documentary about the power of Music on those suffering through Cognitive Challenges. It's making me rethink the classes I teach to our older neighbors. Let's stop normalizing ageism and instead honor those with more life experience than us.