We wanted yinz to get to know our new teachers. So here’s 5 questions to learn a little more about their point of view on improvisation and life.
Here is our new upper level improv teacher, Scott Pettis’ answers:
What drew you to improv, and how has it impacted your life outside the theater?
“I saw long form improv for the first time at the IO Theater in Chicago. I was amazed by it so much that I wanted to be up on stage doing it myself. Outside of theater, it helps me deal with the unexpected in the rest of my life.“
What’s one of your favorite improv games or exercises—and why do you love it?
“One of my favorite short form games is Film & Theater Styles. I like that good scenework is at the core of this game and that layered on top of that are different genres. The genres give me the opportunity to increase my range as an improviser.“
You teach more advanced classes, what can students expect from your classes—and what do you hope they walk away with?
“Students can expect me to give honest feedback of what I see in each of their scenes, both what is working and what is not. I want to support each student in their journey to improve as an improviser.
Some things I hope that students walk away with:
-The ability to stay present and in the moment
-The confidence to commit to what they created in a scene
-The trust in themselves and their scene partner to discover and build a scene together”
Why do you think improv is important right now?
“Improv helps us react to the things that life throws at us, so I think it’s important anytime.”
If someone feels not ready for the next level class, yet you and their current teacher think they are, what would you say to them?
“I’d suggest for that person to take the leap forward to the next level and see how it goes. If it feels challenging for them, it means that it will help them learn and grow. They will likely surprise themselves and surprises are a great part of improv.”
