Whats the history of improvisation?
Improvisation is a centuries old art form that has been used mainly in the performing arts, the acting and music traditions. It has been developed through the ages and the three main pioneers of modern improvisation for the theatre in the 20th century are Viola Spolin, Keith Johnstone and Del Close. From their work, improvisation has developed into a professional performed art form in its own right. Spolin and Johnstone are largely responsible for the modern short-form improvised performances, which has influenced television shows such as Whose Line Is It Anyway and Close is recognised as the creator of the Harold, a style of long-form improvisation.
