Longform improvisation, often referred to simply as longform, is an approach to improvisational theatre and improvisational comedy consisting of one or more scenes which are connected by a narrative thread or theme.
In longform, audiences are often asked for one or more suggestions or inputs which drive the narrative of the performance. This may take the form of a specific existing type of theater, for example a full-length improvised play or Broadway-style musical. Or, the scenes may largely unrelated with the exception of a single point of inspiration. Unlike shortform, no further inputs are solicited. The performance is created by the performers without breaking the narrative thread. Longform improvisation is the predominant form of improvisational performance in Chicago, considered the birthplace of contemporary improvisational theatre. However, longform improvisation is performed around the world. Perhaps the best known longform structure is The Harold, developed by ImprovOlympic cofounder Del Close.
The longform improvisational approach is contrasted with shortform improvisation, or shortform. The superiority or inferiority of one approach versus another is a continuing subject of discussion in the improv community.
The essential tenets of longform improvisation are difficult to state, because one of the central ideals of this type of work is that nothing has to stay the same.
Without delving too much into history (if you want to delve into the history, see our links page-- there's a lot good stuff on there), modern longform improvisation is an improvised performance piece that takes a single audience suggestion as a foundation to spontaneously create characters, situations and patterns.
When done well, a longform piece defies description and is referenced with awe by those who were lucky enough to see it in its first, last and only performance ever
Longform improvisation, often referred to simply as longform, is an approach to improvisational theater and improvisational comedy consisting of one or more scenes which are connected by a narrative thread or theme.
Longform improvisation is the predominant form of improvisational performance in Chicago, considered the birthplace of contemporary improvisational theater.
Longforms are often developed to explore specific subject matter, such as political commentary, or styles, as in the emulation of cinematographic techniques in the Movie longform.
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