10 fundamental rules of improvisation. But wait... rules in improvisation?

But wait a minute... rules for improvisation? Is that okay? So isn't improvisation literally working from scratch? Then how can we have rules for something we don't know what it's going to be?

Questions and more questions, issues that stick to the roof of our heads, unable to escape. But isn't improvisation ultimately "all haphazard"? The answer (although we don't like the word in the context of creation) is No.

At first glance, it might seem strange: “Improvisation with rules? But isn’t improvisation free?” Yes, improvisation is freedom— but it’s not chaos . The rules in improvisation exist to create a safe, fertile, and collaborative space where freedom can happen with confidence. They are like the banks of a river: without them, the water spreads out and loses strength. With them, the current gains direction and power.

Improvisation is a collective art. The rules ensure that everyone plays the same game and that there is room for each person to contribute creatively, without rushing or blocking. When everyone knows the rules—such as accepting ideas, not rejecting a partner, listening, and supporting—the group feels safer to take risks, experiment, and fail without fear.

It may seem contradictory, but limits spark creativity . Having a set of principles helps avoid mental blocks, the "what now?". Instead of becoming paralyzed, we have tools to continue the scene. Rules like "make your partner shine" or "don't try to be funny" exist to remind us that the focus is on the scene, the story, the game—and not on who stands out the most. Improvisation is generous, and without some basic rules, scenes become confusing, repetitive, or disorganized. Rules help maintain an invisible structure that gives fluidity and meaning to improvisation. There are also ethical rules: listen, don't interrupt, don't invade the other person's space, respect the group's boundaries. These are essential for the game to be healthy and inclusive.

So, here are the 10 fundamental rules of improvisation:

1. Say “Yes, and…”

Accept the other person's idea and add something to it. The "yes" creates the scene, the "and..." makes it grow.

2. Make your partner shine.

The goal isn't to be the funniest or the star—it's to make the other person shine. And, magically, you end up shining too.

3. Trust in the moment.

Improvisation is about presence. If you're connected to what's happening now, everything flows. The moment is always enough.

4. Don't try to be funny.

Comedy emerges as a consequence of truth, listening, and play—not from trying to force a joke.

5. Listen for real.

Don't think about what you're going to say next. Just listen. Improvisation thrives on what the other person gives you.

6. Make mistakes with gusto.

Mistakes are part of the process. When they happen, embrace them and transform them into something useful or even brilliant. The audience loves to see how we handle unexpected situations.

7. Be specific

Avoid generic elements. The more specific you are (names, places, details), the richer and more fun the scene will be.

8. Show, don't tell.

Instead of saying "I'm very angry," show it with your body, your voice, your attitude. Theatre thrives on action.

9. Say less, do more.

Improvisation isn't just about talking. It uses the body, space, pauses. Sometimes, silence is worth more than a thousand jokes.

10. Have fun

If you're having fun, the audience is too. Let go of the pressure and enjoy the game.

Interested? Talk to us and enter the wonderful world of improvisational theatre! Mario