Applied Improvisation - Yes, And: Bringing Teams Together Notorious for comedy, improvisation is an art form practicing in-the-moment creativity. Beyond the jokes, improv practices the art of communication, connectivity, and collaboration. These soft skills can equip professionals with techniques in problem solving, leadership, resilience, and articulating self-care. In this interactive workshop, we demonstrate improv activities to encourage safe, inclusive environments and engage future generations of diverse professionals.

1. Will Hightower

2. What is Improvisation?
It is not…
● Exclusively Comedy
● Simply “Making Stuff Up”
● Saying Random Nonsense

3. Improvisational Core Concepts
● Say “Yes, And…”
● Be Present/Single-Task
● Serve the Ensemble

4. Saying “Yes, And…”
Creates a safe
environment for ideas
and collaboration
through validation and
contributing solutions.
Activity: The Story Spine

5. The Story Spine
● Once upon a time...
● Every day...
● But, one day...
● Because of that...
● Because of that...
● Because of that...
● Until, finally...
● And, ever since then...

6. Where Should We Go For Lunch?

8. Be Present/Single-Task
Being mindful is essential
to active listening and
engaging in constructive
dialogue.
Activity: Electric Company

9. Serve the Ensemble
The magic behind teamwork
is the synchronized creativity
headed in the same
direction. We’re fostering an
environment of direct and
intentional communication.
Activity: Circuits

10. Thank you and I Would Love Your Feedback!