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The Improv Toolbelt - Emotion

  • Writer: Catherine Seed
    Catherine Seed
  • Jan 29
  • 1 min read

Updated: Feb 8


The Improv Toolbelt MAD/SAD/GLAD/AFRA(I)D We can use emotions as anchors to guide how we respond to our partner. After mastering the classic four,  there are so many more to explore.  AMPLIFY THE EMOTION Whether entering with an emotion or discovering it in the scene, focus on building that emotion. If you reach the height of the emotion before the scene ends, find a reason to shift to another emotion and restart the process.  JOY OF OPPOSITES A useful skill to learn as an improviser is to play the obvious. How would you feel in this situation? But also remember the opposite can also be true. Feel the opposite and you will discover the why.  MANTRA When using mantras, find a short sentence that you can repeat silently in your head. An opinion or lyric often works well. Repeat it silently enough that it is harder to focus on the scene. See how it affects your acting. 
Emotion

The Improv Toolbelt is a series of infographics with tips for improvisers looking to focus on a particular aspect of their craft. These are created under a creative commons- attribution license. Please feel free to use, but do credit @CatherineSeed on X, Instagram or just in name. Thank you :)


Text version:

The Improv Toolbelt

  1. MAD/SAD/GLAD/AFRA(I)D

    1. We can use emotions as anchors to guide how we respond to our partner. After mastering the classic four,  there are so many more to explore. 

  2. AMPLIFY THE EMOTION

    1. Whether entering with an emotion or discovering it in the scene, focus on building that emotion. If you reach the height of the emotion before the scene ends, find a reason to shift to another emotion and restart the process. 

  3. JOY OF OPPOSITES

    1. A useful skill to learn as an improviser is to play the obvious. How would you feel in this situation? But also remember the opposite can also be true. Feel the opposite and you will discover the why. 

  4. MANTRA

    1. When using mantras, find a short sentence that you can repeat silently in your head. An opinion or lyric often works well. Repeat it silently enough that it is harder to focus on the scene. See how it affects your acting. 

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