About the Book:

Packed with exercises and practical techniques, The Improvisation Game by Chris Johnston explores how improvisation can be used both to create performance and as an end in itself.

It reveals the techniques, structures and methods used by key practitioners in the field of improvised drama, music and dance – amongst them Keith Johnstone (author of Impro), Max Stafford-Clark (Out of Joint), Phelim McDermott (Improbable Theatre), Tim Etchells (Forced Entertainment), John Wright (Trestle, Told by an Idiot) and Robert Lepage.

The book also looks at many famous traditions, events and performances with improvisation at their core, ranging from the Living Theatre to the Scratch Orchestra, from John Cage to Lenny Bruce, and seeks to draw out their significance in the always evolving world of improvisation.

What people say:

"…essential reading… a source of inspiration and a great toolbook for budding devised theatre makers." — Total Theatre Magazine

"…a vital book for everyone who wishes to engage seriously with drama improvisation – it's changed my way of thinking." — ReviewsGate.com

"…offers a wealth of possibilities and pieces of good advice... valuable for beginners and experienced improvisers, as well as for teachers." —Contemporary Theatre Review

About the Author:

Chris Johnston (1952-2017) was a British writer, performer, director, teacher, and workshop facilitator who championed work in community-based theatre and improvisation. He was the Director of improvisation company Fluxx and worked with groups of all kinds from prisoners to old-age pensioners, from youth clubs to professional actors.