Abstract
Improvisational theater (improv) is a booming theatrical practice, applying in many fields (teaching, medicine or entrepreneurship). Its effects on cognitive and behavioral processes are beginning to be demonstrated, despite scientific publications that are still rare, particularly about language. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of improv on adolescent narrative skills. Twenty-seven middle school students were recruited and divided into two groups: an IMPRO group (n = 13), composed of novice and intermediate improvisers, and a CONTROL group (n = 14), composed of middle school students doing theater. The evaluation took place in two experimental times spaces 3 months apart (11 sessions). It consisted in the creation of a written narrative resulting from previously observed images. We used quantitative criteria to carry out the analysis of this story (coherence, cohesion, lexicon, and syntax), according to the methodologies of PELEA and EVALEO. We showed an effect of the improv on coherence, which suggests that the practice of improv introduces teenagers to improve the narrative skills and the planification of a story, unlike written theater.
Highlights
IntroductionImprovisational theater (improv) is an art in which people go on stage without any scenario
Considering the popularity of improv in middle schools and adolescence is a critical period for cognitive development, we focus our research on this population
We found a main effect of Group [F(1) = 18.745, p < 0.001] and a Group × Condition interaction [F(1) = 10.264, p = 0.004], such as T2 scores were higher than T1 scores for the improv group
Summary
Improvisational theater (improv) is an art in which people go on stage without any scenario. They have to tell a story they didn’t know themselves the minute before. Improv is a popular artistic practice which shares core values with teaching: establishing a safe environment, expanding our comfort zone to learn new skills and knowledge, listening to each other and working toward a common goal. The match d’improvisation (improvisational game) is a show with two 6-player teams, a referee and a master of ceremony. The match d’improvisation can include drama or musical improv, comedy is the most popular genre
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
