Del Close

Definition

Del Close was an influential American improvisational comedian, director, and teacher known for shaping modern improv through his innovative techniques and philosophies. He is best recognized for the 'Harold,' a long-form improvisational structure that encourages collaboration and spontaneity, fostering verbal communication skills among performers. His teachings emphasize the importance of listening, support, and connecting with fellow improvisers, which are essential elements in effective verbal exchanges.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Del Close is often credited with introducing the concept of long-form improvisation, which allows for deeper character development and storytelling.
2. He taught that successful improv relies on strong verbal communication skills, including active listening and quick thinking.
3. Close's work laid the groundwork for many prominent comedy institutions, influencing comedians and writers in various forms of entertainment.
4. His mantra 'Follow the fear' encourages improvisers to embrace vulnerability as a pathway to authentic connections and moments in performance.
5. Del Close emphasized the importance of collaboration in improv, teaching that every performer plays a vital role in creating a cohesive narrative through their interactions.

Review Questions

• How did Del Close's approach to improv foster effective verbal communication skills among performers?
  • Del Close's approach to improv emphasized active listening and support for fellow performers, which are crucial components of effective verbal communication. By encouraging improvisers to be present in the moment and respond genuinely to each other, he created an environment where collaboration thrived. This resulted in richer exchanges and more meaningful interactions on stage, allowing performers to develop their verbal skills through shared experiences.
• In what ways did Del Close's creation of the Harold influence modern improvisational practices?
  • The Harold, developed by Del Close, transformed modern improvisational practices by introducing a structured yet flexible format that allows for the exploration of themes and character arcs over extended performances. This method encourages performers to build upon each other's ideas while maintaining a focus on narrative coherence. As a result, it has become a staple in improv training programs, teaching students how to engage in deeper verbal exchanges and collaborative storytelling.
• Evaluate how Del Close's principles can be applied outside of improv to enhance communication in other settings.
  • Del Close's principles can be highly beneficial in various communication settings beyond improv, as they promote active listening, collaboration, and adaptability. For example, the 'Yes, And' philosophy encourages individuals to accept contributions from others while expanding on them, leading to constructive discussions in team environments. By fostering a mindset that values connection and support, these principles can enhance interpersonal relationships and lead to more effective collaboration in professional or social contexts.

Related terms

Harold: A long-form improvisational structure created by Del Close that consists of multiple scenes based on a single suggestion, promoting themes and connections throughout the performance.

Yes, And: An improvisational principle that encourages acceptance and expansion of ideas offered by scene partners, forming the foundation of collaborative verbal communication in improv.

Upright Citizens Brigade: A renowned improv and sketch comedy group co-founded by Del Close's students that continues to influence the landscape of comedy and improvisation.