Resources (Titles Are Linked)
Books
Classic book on improvisation. Covers many topics that will improve your improv mind.
Truth in Comedy by Del Close, Charna Halpern, and
Kim Johnson
Every improviser should read this book. It’s the first documentation of The Harold and a basic discussion of improv principles.
Art by Committee by Charna Halpern
Great book. Goes into more advanced topics.
Improvise: Scenes from the Inside Out by Mick Napier
One of my favorite improv books. I read the entire thing sitting on the floor at a Barnes & Noble. Then I put it back on the shelf. Just kidding. I bought it after that.
Something Wonderful Right Away by Jeffery Sweet
Very good book about the Compass Players. Jeffery Sweet is an improv scholar.
Biographies
Mike Nichols: A Life by Mark Harris
I recently read this and thoroughly enjoyed it. Mike Nichols was one of the most famous improvisers of all time. He and Elaine May performed improv on Broadway, and he went on to become a prolific filmmaker. Highly recommended.
Miss May Does Not Exist by Carrie Courogen
The other side of Nichos & May. Elaine May also went on to become a talented filmmaker, despite directing one of the biggest flops of all time.
If you don't know who Tina Fey is, then you're probably not into improv. Tina is a skilled improviser and one of the best comedy writers of all time. Great book.
Amy is a big reason I got into this mess. Her story is compelling and inspiring.
Art
The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
This is one of my favorite books of all time. Rick talks about the creative process and offers his insight into the world of art. Every artist should read this book.
The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
If you are interested in pursuing the arts and your own creativity, then this book is for you. It's a 12-week program that will offer you a perspective on the creative world and yourself. I challenge you to do it and get through all 12 weeks. It will change your life.
Articles
Fail Like a Pro: Creating Success in Improv Comedy and Advertising by Brad Engle
This article is about how the learning process for improv and advertising is similar, and failure is a big part of it.
Yes, and Advertising: An Improv Comedy Approach to Creativity by Brad Engle
An article about how advertising creatives can use improv as a tool to create new ideas.
Videos
Nichols & May
Documentary - Nichols and May Take Two
If you are studying improv and/or sketch comedy, then you need to study Nichols & May. The documentary is excellent, and the sketches are classics.
Films
Kristen Wiig
Barb & Starr Go to Vista Del Mar
This is one of my favorite movies of recent. Watch how Barb and Starr play off each other. There is a lot of yes-anding, which every student should take note of.
Christopher Guest
Christopher Guest creates a structure for his films that is filled with improvisations from his cast. Extremely funny and a solid example of how improv can be used on screen.
Jerry Seinfeld
Fantastic documentary on not only stand-up, but comedy overall. One of my favorites and a classic trailer.
Theaters/Clubs
New York
This is a club where I perform. The improv scene there is new, but it features a lot of the best players in NYC.
The theater that started the improv movement in NYC. A.S.S.S.S.C.A.T. is a must-see. Take classes here and watch shows for an essential improv education.
This is Armando Diaz's theater. It's where I did most of my studies and credit for my education. The musical improv program is also excellent.
Jams. So many jams. This is the best place to get on your feet and perform for little cost. I've been to hundreds of jams, and it is a big reason I grew as an improviser. Cool people too.
Beautiful space in Williamsburg. Very professional and a good place to study.
Chicago
GO SEE THE MAINSTAGE SHOW. Seriously, it's a lot of fun.
Another improv institution. Many improv greats have studied here, and it was started by Del Close and Charna Halpern.
Los Angeles
Another must-see theater. The Groundlings have their own approach to improv and comedy. It's worth checking out whenever you are in Los Angeles.
They have a West Coast theater, too. Go check it out.
Baltimore
Great resource for Maryland improvisers. They have a jam on Thursdays at 9. (Call before your haul)
Philadelphia
The Philly Improv Theater (The PHIT)
I think they just teach classes now, but worth checking out.
Denver
An improv theater in Denver. Never been.
Amey Goerlich from the UCB NY runs this theater. She is very funny and worth studying with if you are in Denver.