Sessions at SXSW Interactive 2011 about Improvisation

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Friday 11th March 2011

• Improv Classes: Not Just for Comedians and Actors

  by Brad Temple

  Austin is a growing hotbed of improvisational theater. Many of the city's improvisational comedians work in the tech industry by day. This panel would explore the benefits of enrolling in improv comedy classes and how those benefits translate to additional success in your day job. Learn about basic improv philosophy and how it can enhance teamwork, spontaneity and adaptation to the ever-changing demands of our workplace.

  LEVEL: Beginner

  • Improvisation

  At 2:00pm to 3:00pm, Friday 11th March

  In Room 5ABC, Austin Convention Center

Sunday 13th March 2011

• 15 Slides, Three Writers, Three Ways -- One Hour

  by rands, Jim Coudal and John Gruber

  In this presentation, you will see the same set of 15 slides -- three times. Three different writers will walk through the same set of slides and explain their approaches to getting started, editing ideas, figuring out how to get unstuck, and understanding when they're done. Part improv and part preparation, this presentation will give you three totally different and unexpected perspectives regarding the art of writing.

  LEVEL: Intermediate

  • Improvisation
  • Writing

  At 9:30am to 10:30am, Sunday 13th March

  In Creekside, Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol

Tuesday 15th March 2011

• Improv For Everyone

  by Amanda Hirsch and Jordan Hirsch

  From Malcolm Gladwell's Blink to articles in Fast Company and the New York Times, improvised comedy is gaining recognition as an art form with valuable lessons for professionals of all stripes. Building on the success of their SXSW Interactive 2010 Audience Favorite session "Improv Lessons for Freelancers," Jordan and Amanda Hirsch return to SXSW to unlock the secrets of improvised comedy for everyone: from freelancers to Fortune 500s, grey-suits to geeks. Come learn how improv can help you hone essential business and life skills like: communicating more effectively; responding constructively to change; making decisions; and trusting your gut instincts. Plus: we'll play games!

  LEVEL: Beginner

  • Improvisation

  At 3:30pm to 4:30pm, Tuesday 15th March

  In Room 10AB, Austin Convention Center