Turning Frowns Upside Down: The Magic of Improv and Unexpected Stories

Last night’s Superdooper Taster Session was an absolute blast. We had an ostrich who stole a car after burning the toilet, epic beehive mishaps, and a scientific experiment involving a vat of honey that ended in sticky tragedy. Oh, and let’s not forget the fiercely competitive Tupperware-closing champions. By the end of the evening, there were countless stories created that simply wouldn’t have existed without this incredible group of people coming together to experiment, play, and laugh.

What I love most about improv is how every group brings something completely unique. The dynamics of the people in the room shape the stories in ways I could never predict. It’s a reminder of the beauty of collaboration – and how creativity thrives when we’re open to the unexpected.

Last night, I also decided to experiment myself. Normally, when we’re playing games, I ask the audience (those not currently playing) for suggestions. But with a smaller group, I thought, why not try ChatGPT for inspiration?

We played a game called “Word at a Time Story” – where players build a story one word at a time, progressing from one word to five words and then back down to one, with the final round challenging players to end the story within the constraints. My first prompt to ChatGPT asked for a made-up title. It suggested “How the Pigeon Stole Tuesday.” A great title, but as an improv suggestion, it felt like it was trying a little too hard.

In improv, a good suggestion needs to leave space for exploration. When a suggestion tries to be clever or funny, players can fall into the trap of trying to outdo it – and that often stifles creativity. So I refined my approach, asking ChatGPT for a real-sounding romance novel title instead. It came back with “Whispers of the Forgotten Shore.”

Without telling the players it was a romance novel, I simply gave them the title. The story they created was poignant: a father searching for his lost son, ending with the waves whispering, “Never forget me.” It was a deeply moving story, far removed from the romance novel genre – and had I told them the title’s origin, it would have likely shaped their approach differently.

For the next round, I asked ChatGPT for a comic book title. It gave me “Rise of the Neon Rogue.” Again, I didn’t mention the genre, just the title. The story they created? A love story! Perhaps the earlier discussion about the romance novel had a lingering influence, but the result was far removed from the superhero adventure I expected.

These moments highlight the magic of improv. A suggestion can open up infinite possibilities, and the stories that emerge depend entirely on the people in the room. By leaving the prompts open to interpretation, the players were free to explore without preconceived ideas – and the results were brilliant.

By the end of the evening, we all had big smiles on our faces and left armed with impossible tales to giggle about the next day. For me, that’s the true joy of improv: seeing people surprise themselves, connect with each other, and create something that didn’t exist before.

If you’re curious to experience this magic for yourself, there’s still time to join the fun!

🎭 Beginners’ Course

• Starts Thursday, 30th January, 6:00–8:00 PM

• £130 per person, or grab a Bring-a-Buddy Special: Two places for £200

🎭 Improvers’ Course

• Starts Thursday, 30th January, 8:15–9:30 PM

• £90 per person (limited places available)

📧 Sign up: Email me at improbablesguernsey@gmail.com or grab your tickets online: www.ticketsource.co.uk/guernsey-impro

Let’s improvise some joy together – because improv isn’t just for the stage, it’s for life!

#ImproviseYourJoyBack #GuernseyImprov #CreativityUnleashed #SayYesAnd #Storytelling #LaughterAndPlay

IMPRObelter Musical workshop

Discover the Magic of Musical Improv with the Guernsey Improbables!

Are you ready for an unforgettable day of creativity, music, and laughter? The Guernsey Improbables are excited to present their first-ever Improv Musical Workshop, an event that promises to be as educational as it is entertaining. This unique workshop, taking place on Saturday, 17th August at Avril Earl Dance and Theatre Arts Centre, is a must-attend for anyone looking to dive into the world of musical improv.

What’s It All About?

Musical improv is a thrilling form of improvisation where performers create scenes, characters, and songs on the spot. It’s a fantastic way to enhance your creativity, boost your confidence, and develop quick-thinking skills. Plus, it’s incredibly fun! Whether you’re a seasoned performer or completely new to the stage, this workshop is designed for all skill levels. All you need is an appetite for adventure and a willingness to give it a go.

Meet Your Instructors

Leading the workshop is the incredible Sarah Hansmann, an improv veteran with years of experience in the art of spontaneous performance. Sarah’s passion and expertise ensure that every participant will have a supportive and enriching experience.

Joining Sarah is the multi-talented Stephen Rouxel. No stranger to musical theatre, Stephen has entertained countless audiences with GADOC and is a valued member of both the Edinburgh Improbables and the Guernsey Improbables. With his rich background and dynamic stage presence, Stephen brings an added layer of theatrical flair to the workshop.

A Day Packed with Fun and Learning

Throughout the day, you’ll explore the fundamentals of musical improv, from crafting catchy tunes to developing compelling characters. Sarah and Stephen will guide you through exercises and games that will unleash your creativity and prepare you for the ultimate challenge – performing in an improvised musical.

The Grand Finale: A Live Showcase

As a special treat, the workshop will culminate in a live showcase performance on Saturday night. This is your chance to shine on stage alongside Sarah and Stephen, and share the magic of musical improv with an audience. Tickets for the showcase are just £7 and are expected to sell out quickly, so be sure to grab yours soon!

Why You Should Join

• Boost Your Confidence: Step out of your comfort zone and discover your hidden talents.

• Develop New Skills: Learn the art of improvisation from two seasoned performers.

• Make New Friends: Connect with like-minded individuals in a fun and supportive environment.

• Have a Blast: Experience the joy of creating something magical and spontaneous.

Spaces are filling up fast, so don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! To secure your spot, visit  www.ticketsource.co.uk/guernsey-impro or contact improbablesguernsey@gmail.com

Join us for a day of music, laughter, and creativity – and be ready to make some unforgettable memories!

We can’t wait to see you there!

IMPRObable Schools

 

Launching IMPRObable Schools: Unleashing Creativity in the Classroom

We are thrilled to announce the launch of IMPRObable Schools, an exciting new initiative by the Guernsey Improbables, aimed at integrating the dynamic and transformative power of improv into the educational experience. At IMPRObable Schools, we believe that the skills learned through improv are not just for the stage—they enrich the classroom and beyond by fostering creativity, confidence, collaboration, and critical thinking.

Why Improv in Schools?

The inclusion of improvisational theatre in educational settings offers myriad benefits. It nurtures a supportive environment where students can take risks and express themselves without fear of failure. This encourages creative thinking and boosts problem-solving abilities, essential skills in today’s ever-evolving world.

Benefits of Improv for Students:

• Enhanced Creativity: Improv prompts students to think outside the box and generate ideas quickly, enhancing their creative thought processes.
• Increased Confidence: Regular practice of improv can significantly boost self-esteem and improve public speaking skills, as students learn to trust their instincts and express their thoughts.
• Improved Collaboration: Improv is inherently collaborative, requiring students to work closely together, listen actively, and support each other’s ideas.
• Adaptability and Resilience: Students learn to handle unexpected situations with ease and adapt to various roles and dynamics, fostering flexibility in both thought and action.

Our Offerings

At IMPRObable Schools, we cater to a diverse range of needs and educational goals through several targeted programs:

1. Stand-Up Comedy Courses

Designed for students interested in exploring the nuances of comedic writing and performance, these courses focus on the individual craft of creating and delivering stand-up comedy. It’s an excellent way for students to develop their unique voice and learn timing, a critical skill in both comedic and persuasive speaking.

2. Improv Workshops for Investigation and Discovery Week

Perfect for special school weeks focused on exploration and innovation, these workshops are tailored to complement themes of inquiry and discovery. They are designed to be fun and engaging, helping students to unleash their creative potential in a structured yet spontaneous environment.

3. Customized School Programs

From one-day introductions to improv to full-term courses that integrate with the school’s existing curriculum, our programs are adaptable. We offer sessions that fit into various school events and educational frameworks, supporting subjects from literature to social studies, by enhancing students' understanding through experiential learning.

4. Corporate Workshops for Educators

These are specially designed for teachers and school staff, focusing on team-building, effective communication, and creative problem-solving skills. Our corporate workshops are a great way for educators to refresh their approach and bring new energy to their classrooms.

Meet Your Instructor: Sarah Hansmann

All sessions at IMPRObable Schools are led by Sarah Hansmann, a seasoned improv professional with nearly three decades of experience in performing and teaching improvisation. Sarah’s extensive training and unique teaching style make her sessions both educational and entertaining, ensuring that students not only learn but also enjoy every moment of the process.

Get Involved

We invite you to introduce your students to the exciting world of improv through IMPRObable Schools. Whether you are looking to spice up your curriculum, build essential life skills in your students, or simply offer them a new avenue for expression and growth, IMPRObable Schools is ready to partner with you.

For more details on our programs or to schedule a session, please visit our website at improguernsey.com or contact us directly. Let’s make learning unforgettable together!

Celebrating World Theatre Day with a Showcase!

Introduction: As the curtains rise on World Theatre Day, there's no better way to celebrate the magic of live performance than with Guernsey Improbables! Join us for an electrifying evening of laughter, creativity, and boundless imagination as we honor this special occasion in the best way we know how – with improv!

The Power of Improvisation: At Guernsey Improbables, we believe in the transformative power of improvisation. It's not just about making people laugh (though we certainly aim to do plenty of that!), but also about fostering connection, creativity, and joy. Improv invites us to embrace spontaneity, trust our instincts, and celebrate the unexpected – qualities that are at the heart of great theatre.

Meet the Masters: Leading the charge on our World Theatre Day celebration are improv veterans Sarah Hansmann and Oliver Bailey-Davies. With years of experience and a knack for quick thinking, Sarah and Oli are masters of their craft. From comedic genius to heartfelt drama, they can do it all – and then some!

The Graduates Take the Stage: But the spotlight isn't just on Sarah and Oli – it's also on the talented graduates of our 'Improviser Your Joy Back!' course. These budding improv stars have honed their skills, embraced their creativity, and are ready to shine on stage. Get ready to witness the next generation of improv greatness!

An Evening of Fun and Games: What can you expect from our World Theatre Day showcase? Prepare to be entertained as teams of improvisers go head-to-head in a series of hilarious games, all fueled by suggestions from YOU, our amazing audience. From wacky characters to unexpected plot twists, no two shows are ever the same!

A Style Rollercoaster Ride: And just when you thought the fun couldn't get any better, Sarah and Oli will take you on a style rollercoaster like no other. From Shakespearean drama to Broadway musicals, they'll weave in as many theatre styles as the audience can provide, guaranteeing an evening of laughs and surprises.

Join Us for the Celebration: So mark your calendars, gather your friends, and join us for a night to remember as we celebrate World Theatre Day with Guernsey Improbables. Let's come together to laugh, create, and revel in the magic of live performance. See you there!

Remember to book your tickets early – this is one celebration you won't want to miss! 🎭✨

More Improvising your JOY back!

Before the dark months of January and February loom large we've launched the next 'Improvise your Joy back!' course with and Early bird special if you book before the 30th of December.

BOOK HERE

‘Improvise your joy back’ this Autumn

The last hoorays of the Summer holidays are upon us and if, like me, you suffer from a bit of S.A.D (seasonal adjustment disorder) and become a bit down at this time of year, I’ve made sure that inoculation against the Autumn blues (a colour rarely associated with Autumn but go with me on this) is assured by signing up to ‘Improvise your joy back!’ course.

8 weeks of fun.

But don’t take my word for it, listen to previous participants Diana and Richard.

‘Sarah, from the Guernsey Improbables Team, has been an absolute beacon of joy for me. Every class has been an uproariously good time as we all play improv games together, in the process letting ourselves go to let loose and laugh and ultimately find our way through harder times. My favourite lesson has been the exercise in saying YES! when we want to say NO! because we think we have control or want to hold onto a particular idea for our scenes but improv doesn't work that way...and neither does life! What a fantastic class this has been and I'm going to miss it so much when it's done. Highly recommend it!!’

-Putting the D back in Disco, Diana

‘This is the best way to spend a couple of hours in the evening. Make new friends and create your own hilarious fun and learn at the same time. No previous experience or ability necessary. Sign up now and you won't regret it.’- Richard Corbin

Book here https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/guernsey-impro

Ready for Stand-up! And Improv double bill?

Starting in June a new Stand-up Comedy workshop is launching. And for those improvisers who have done the Improbables course before can come to the Improv drop sessions and get your laughter muscles warmed up before the Stand-up workshop.

Every Thursday from 15th June to 20th July. 

- Improv drop in 6-7:45pm

- Stand-up Comedy workshop 8-9:45pm 

The stand up comedy workshop over 6 weeks to get you up on your feet with your own five minutes of original material.

The workshop will take you through the process of developing your own material and discovering your own comedy style.

Over the six sessions you will:

- Discover your unique comedy voice

- Write and workshop a five minute ‘set’

- Develop your comic timing

- Work on your stage presence and delivery

- Microphone technique

- Be stage ready for Guernsey’s first homegrown ‘Stand up Showcase’

The workshop will run on Thursday evenings from 15th June. 8-9:45pm at the Castel Douzaine room.

The cost is £60.

Season ticket to Improv Drop in is £50 and 

Combined ticket for both workshops is £90

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/guernsey-impro

The course will be run by improv comedy veteran Sarah Hansmann. As well as years of experience performing and teaching improv comedy, Sarah toured South Africa as one of the top comics from the Cape Comedy Collective, appearing on tv, headlining festivals and promotional tours. Sarah has developed this 6 week course, which is a first for Guernsey, in the hopes of getting the local stand up comedy scene up and running.

 

Over the last nine weeks anyone peeking through the windows of the Castel Douzaine room may have been intrigued by the guffaws and antics taking place because Guernsey Improbables have been running their ‘Improvise your joy back!’ course. As one of the participants Diana Hurwitz put it, ‘Every class has been an uproariously good time as we all play improv games together, letting loose and laughing.’

 

Another participant Kaelan Le Page said, ‘Over the last couple of months, I have well and truly improvised my joy back. I cannot wait to showcase our newly found skills to an auidience next week! It’s a real buzz knowing the laughter we’ve had over previous weeks will now be shared outside of the classroom.’

 

To round off the end of such a successful course, twelve of the graduates of the course will be joined on stage by Improv veterans Sarah Hansmann and Oliver Bailey-Davies in a showcase performance. The two professional performers will be leading teams of improvisers in a series of ‘competitive’ theatre games, creating scenes using suggestions from the audience.  Joined, too, by local award-winning composer Lydia Jane Pugh, who will be creating a soundtrack to the evenings sketches as they happen and adding her musical flare to the made-up mayhem.

 

Sarah, who has been running the course, had this to say about the upcoming showcase, ‘There’s always so much positivity that comes out of these courses, but the next step really is to perform it for an audience. For the performers, they’ve been immersed in this joyful experience and performing it with direct feedback from an audience is truly special. For the audience, it’s different to any other theatre because they have control as it is based on their suggestions. You could see a Game of Thrones type drama, set in a bank with a retired ormer farmer, the possibilities are endless. At the end of the evening they have had a unique experience which will never be repeated’

 

The showcase takes place at the Princess royal Centre for the Performing Arts on Thursday the 23^rd of March, 7:30pm. Tickets are £10 available onlinewww.guernseytickets.gg or by calling the box office on 01481 229999.

 New Year New Course

Why not beat the January blues by joining the funnest Thursday in Guernsey. Starting January 12th for 8 weeks, improv veteran Sarah Hansmann will be taking you through the steps to be a better improviser.

Book now to avoid crying into your porridge on cold dark January nights.

Book here Ticketsource

 THE RETURN OF THE IMPROBABLES!

Guernsey Improbables are returning to the stage live and in person! Celebrating with a fantastic double bill of made up mayhem using suggestions from the audience. The opening half will be the latest graduates of the ‘Improvise bill your joy back’ course and the second half will see a return of some of our old favourite players. We will also be joined by a brand new musical improviser adding the soundtrack to the evening.

We are also delighted to be the first show in the newly launched Kerry Luscombe Studio Theatre. 

Improvise your joy back!

This January join the Improbables in our new course. It’s a new year filled with cobwebs of the last two years and we could certainly use the unbridled joy of ‘playing’ and making things up so get your joy boots on and make the leap. The first session is on the 27th of January. Booking is essential so reserve your place  www.ticketsource.co.uk/guernsey-impro or by contacting Sarah on improbablesguernsey@gmail.com

Sarah's Swan Song

Join us on Wednesday 11th of May 8pm at the Princess Royal Centre for the Performing Arts for Guernsey Improbables improv comedy show. This will be the last time for the near future to watch Sarah improvise as she will be hanging up her improv boots to take up her position as a Deputy.

Book your tickets here

 

March Comedy

After our fabulous sold out show in December (a snippet can be seen here ) we're back at the Princess Royal Centre for the Performing Arts on Wednesday 23rd of March.

Performing our own improv format called 'Fluff or Forfeit' which involves the same audience suggestions played out but with the twist that the audience decides at the end if the actors played to the rules and if not the director has to perform a forfeit.

After 2 years of ridiculously low price of £6, we've bowed to economic pressures and brought ticket prices up to £8. Our funny five offer is now £35 for 5 tickets and Student/conc tickets £6.
Block booking are always welcome (we can think of nothing more fun than sharing the laughter with your friends) so if you have something in mind contact us direct improbablesguernsey@gmail.com

See you there.... BOOK HERE

Making Christmas Improbable

Announcing our final show of the year at a new venue. 

Tuesday the 15th of December at the Princess Royal Centre for the Performing Arts, 8pm.

Doors open at 7:30 and there will be a bar available.

'Take an idea. Ideas are an ocean to splash about in.' - Keith Johnstone

The new course has started and again I'm thrilled at the new improv explorers who have chosen to try something new.

It's a pleasure to introduce players to the endless enjoyment of improv. What's always interesting is hearing people's reasons for joining the course.
'I saw it and thought, that is something different, I'll give it a try.'
'I was scared, but I knew I needed to do something for me'
'I spend so much of my time being careful of what I say and measuring everything that comes out of my mouth, so when I saw this I thought it would be good to challenge myself to get out of that space'

Whatever their reasons, they are all taking that leap together and splashing about in the ocean of impro fun.

Take the leap and join the growing Guernsey Improv community

A new course starting 1st of October!

Unleash your inner HERO improv course run by improv veteran Sarah Hansmann who has recently worked with Keith Johnston in London and has lots of new and exciting lessons from the master himself.

The course runs over 10 sessions with an optional performance at the end of the course.

Book here 

SUMMER LAUGHS at the Fermain Tavern

Our next show will be Wednesday the 29th of July 8pm at the Fermain Tavern.

We're celebrating summer with some special summer themed forfeits from FLUFF or FORFEIT!
Bring your friendlies for our FUNNY FIVE offer (5 tickets for £25) or £6 each.
BOOK HERE

Guernsey Festival of Comedy!

We're looking forward to.......
Tuesday 2nd of June 
Book here!

And if you're wondering what we got up to last year here's a taste of Joanna and the Otter

New Venues and more shows

I looked back at the calendar today and realised that our anniversary has come and gone. The professional team had it's first show on 26th of March last year! And what a year it's been...

We created our own shows at various venues and Festivals, including The Guernsey Literary Festival, The Sure Festival of Comedy, Chaos Festival and Specsavers Search for a Star. We even created our own Full length Improvised Musical in December. View it in full here

We're trying out a new venue on Thursday the 30th of April The E&G (The English and Guernsey Arms) Tickets here

And after last years success, we're part of the Sure Festival of Comedy again on Tuesday the 2nd of June. Book here